WWII Reissue M1918 Mk1 Trench Knife w/ Scabbard L.F.&C.

Product Description:  A highly desirable and well-preserved WWII Reissue M1918 Mk1 Trench Knife w/ Scabbard L.F.&C., representing one of the most iconic American edged weapons of the First World War era that has been cut down on the blade and the guard as one done for WWII issue. The double-edged steel blade exhibits even wear throughout, presenting an honest appearance consistent with wartime service and age. The blade surface looks to have been re-blued at some point, and shows runner marks and expected signs of use and handling, lending the piece a period character often sought by collectors. The brass knuckle-duster style grip retains only traces of its original blackened finish and is clearly stamped on the grip with “U.S. 1918,” with the maker’s mark “L.F.&C. 1918” struck beneath in smaller characters. The rounded guard has been cut down for WWII use.

This 1918 L.F.& C. Trench Knife with Scabbard is accompanied by its original sheet metal scabbard, which is missing the two fragile attachment prongs, a typical trait of surviving examples. The scabbard shows little to no corrosion and much of the original blackened finish. The throat is neatly marked “L.F.&C. 1918,” matching the knife. A scarce and highly collectible WWII example that displays exceptionally well and would be difficult to improve upon, offered in excellent overall condition.

Historical Description: The first official U.S. trench knife adopted for service issue was the U.S. M1917 trench knife. It was designed by Henry Disston & Sons and based off examples of trench knives that were in service with the French Army at that time. The M1917 featured a triangular stiletto blade, wooden grip, metal knuckle guard, and a rounded pommel. The M1917 proved unsatisfactory in service, and a slightly improved version, the M1918, was adopted within months. Despite this, the M1918 is almost identical to the M1917, differing primarily in the construction and appearance of the knuckle guard. Usable only as stabbing weapons, the M1917 and M1918 frequently suffered broken blades. Their limited utility and general unpopularity caused the AEF to empanel a testing board in 1918, to test various trench knives and select a replacement.

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