Item Description
Original Item: Only One Available. Worn in the breast pocket of the Paratrooper M2 Jump Jacket, these knives were intended for paratroopers to cut their parachute cords and anything else if they got entangled during a jump. All of the versions are quite rare and hard to find, partly because they continued to be used after the war, and simply wore out.
This wonderful example offered in very good functional condition is marked on the base of the blade (ricasso) as follows:
GEO. SCHRADE
BRIDGEPORT
CONN.
and
PRESTO
MADE IN THE U.S.A.
The earliest model of these had a "jigged bone" handle, but as the war progressed, a simpler textured metal grip design was introduced, which was painted black. Unlike other versions, this one came in two sizes, the smaller No.2, which was the same size s the No.1, and the larger No.3, which is what we have here. It has an original overall length of 8 3/4", compared to the 7 1/8" inch of the No.2 and later No.4 and No.5.
Our example definitely shows some wear and sharpening, as well as some past oxidation. The black paint on the grips is slightly worn, and the blade still is the original size, so it has not been sharpened excessively. It still opens correctly, though it needs help to lock fully open. The blade lock works, preventing it from opening or closing when not intended.
For further research checkout this forum post about these knives and how to tell WW2 knives from post war (this example is 100% WWII) visit the forum at this link.
NOTE: This knife is definitely considered a "Switchblade", so check local laws before ordering.
- This product is not available for shipping in US state(s): Arkansas, California, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Illinois, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, and Washington
This product is not available for international shipping.
- Stored and shipped from our PA location; not available in Arkansas, California, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Illinois, Massachusetts, New Jersey, Oregon, Utah, and Washington. Please check all local laws before ordering.
- Not eligible for payment with Paypal or Amazon
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