1917 US Trench Knife – LF&C

Product Description:  A superb and increasingly scarce example of early American military edged weapon design, this M1917 LF&C Trench Knife w/ Scabbard represents the first pattern of U.S. government-issued trench fighting knives developed for close-quarters combat during the First World War. Manufactured by Landers, Frary & Clark and dated 1917, the piece stands as a highly desirable artifact among advanced collectors of U.S. militaria.

The triangular blade remains in exceptional condition, free from damage and retaining a significant portion of its original blued finish, an uncommon and highly sought-after feature. The hilt is equally well-preserved, with the wooden grip panels intact and structurally sound, exhibiting only minor pressure marks and light wear consistent with age. The distinctive spiked hand guard retains most of its original factory-applied bluing and is clearly stamped “LF&C” alongside the 1917 date, confirming its early wartime production.

The knife is accompanied by its original scabbard, which remains notably well-preserved. The leather body retains a substantial amount of its original green paint and shows none of the deformation or separation frequently encountered in examples of this age. The metal fittings are complete and undamaged, with the upper mount retaining its suspension system and stamped “HE” and “MS.”

Overall condition is best described as strong excellent, with exceptional preservation across both the knife and scabbard. As a foundational piece of American trench warfare equipment, this M1917 LF&C Trench Knife w/ Scabbard offers collectors a rare opportunity to acquire a complete and highly original example, prized for its historical importance, condition, and visual impact.

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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