Original Item: Only One Available. The U.S. Model 1918 Mark I Trench Knife was the second major "Knuckle Knife" to be officially adopted and issued to the US military. It was developed for use in the horrific trench warfare that typified the stalemate on the Western Front during the latter part of World War One and saw use not only there, but during World War Two as well. The knife was manufactured in the United States by Henry Disston & Sons (H.D. & S.) as well as Landers, Frary & Clark (L.F. & C.) and Oneida Community Ltd (O.C.L.). The knives were also produced in France and are marked with the usual 1918 and US marks, as well as Au Lion on the blade. Whether this mark was a maker's mark or simply a motto is not known.

The U.S. M-1918 Mark I Trench Knife is easily identifiable due to its large "brass knuckle" style guard and grip. This knife is 11 ¾" in overall length, with a 6 ¾" dagger style blade. The overall length with scabbard is 12”. The brass grips were beautifully darkened and are marked U.S. 1918 L.F & C - 1918. The scabbard is marked LF&C 1918. Both of the two hanging prongs are still fully intact as shown, very rare to see. The scabbard is excellent overall though the prongs are bent upward. The blade has been refinished with heavy scratching visible underneath, though it presents fine. 

As originally issued, the knives were entirely blackened; both the blades and the brass knuckle hilts. These knives remained in use with the US military, classified as limited standard (secondary issue) through January of 1945, when the knives were officially classified as obsolete. As originally issued, the knives were carried in a blued sheet steel scabbard that was typically maker marked, and was equipped with a pair of wire tabs that were intended to engage the US pistol web belt in use at that time. Many of the knives issued during World War II ended up in substitute leather scabbards of various designs and styles, many of which were "theater made".

The knife was produced by the Landers, Frary & Clark company of New Britain, CT. L.F. & C. was established in 1865 and produced a wide variety of housewares, cutlery and event appliances. Many of their products were marketed under the trade name "Universal". The products of L.F. & C. included everything from scales, mousetraps and ice skates to electric ranges and toasters. L.F. & C. also produced the triangular blade US M-1917 Trench Knife as well. The assets of the L.F. & C. company were purchased by General Electric in 1965.

The original blackened finish on the brass grip and knuckle guard has worn in the expected high-contact areas, revealing a rich, naturally aged dark brass patina that adds tremendous character. The steel dagger blade has lost much of its original factory polish and appears to have seen period sharpening during its service life. It was professionally refinished after the war, with evidence of its earlier wear and age still visible beneath the later finish. The blade exhibits only light edge wear overall, with a single small nick.

Despite these honest signs of age and service, this remains a very attractive example of one of the most iconic and sought-after American fighting knives of the First World War. The Model 1918 brass "D-Guard" trench knife is renowned for its intimidating appearance and unmistakable profile, making it a standout centerpiece in any collection of military edged weapons. Its substantial brass knuckle guard and imposing design ensure it commands attention in any display.

Specifications:-
Blade Length: 6 3/4"
Blade Style: Double Edged Dagger
Overall length: 12”
Guard: 4 1/2" long x 3 3/4" wide
Scabbard Length: 7 ⅛”