Original Item: Only One Available. This is a heavily service-worn original U.S. WWII M2-style paratrooper automatic knife manufactured under the Edgemaster name, a brand associated with Schrade. Knives of this type were carried by airborne troops and were intended as compact emergency cutting tools, particularly for freeing a paratrooper from suspension lines, webbing, or other equipment after a jump. Surviving wartime examples are difficult to find, particularly in clearly used condition.

This fair, heavily service-worn example offered in good mostly functional condition, and is marked on the base of the blade (ricasso) as follows:

Edgemaster
U.S.A.

Edgemaster was a division of Schrade and discontinued production in 1958 with the federal ban on switchblades. However, this one dates to WWII issue. 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. These had 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. This example is the shorter No.2, which originally was 7 1/8" long with a 3 1/8" long blade.

This knife was definitely used extensively during the war, and possibly afterwards. It still opens correctly but is a bit sticky, and needs a little help to lock fully open at times. The blade lock works, preventing it from opening or closing when not intended. The blade has very heavy staining on both sides, and the exterior has some heavy dirt residue.

For further research checkout this forum post about these knives and how to tell WWII knives from post war (this example is 100% WWII).

NOTE: This knife is definitely considered a "Switchblade", so check local laws before ordering.

The combination of the Edgemaster U.S.A. marking, wartime-style metal handle, compact No. 2 configuration, functioning automatic mechanism, blade lock, and extensive service wear makes this a particularly evocative example of U.S. airborne equipment from the WWII period.

Dimensions:-
Blade length: 3”
Blade Style: Clip Point Knife
Overall length closed: 4”
Overall length open: 7”