Description
Product Description: A very interesting example of a US 1918 Knuckle Knife that was modified during the Vietnam War to be more practical as a bayonet. These Model 1918 trench knives were designed to replace the Model 1917 trench knife and still combined all of the favorable aspects of other countries fighting knife designs into one knife, but removed the controversial triangular blade that was standard on its predecessor. These knives were developed late in 1918 and favored by troops in both World Wars, and as evidenced by this example, the Vietnam War as well. This example of a 1918 Knuckle Knife is a “mut” for sure, as the grip is correct for 1918, however a World War II era M3 knife blade or M4 bayonet blade has been added. No visible markings on blade, but it retains nice amounts of its dark finish. The cast brass grip is marked “U.S. 1918” and was most likely produced by Aulion. Bayonet lug components for an M16 rifle are affixed to between the guard and blade, as well as between the grip and the skull crusher. Grip exhibits a pleasing patina with dark spots from age and oxidation. The 1918 Knuckle Knife is housed in a World War II era scabbard marked “US M8A1 / PWH” (Pennsylvania Working Home (for the Blind)). Scabbard body retains decent amounts of its green finish with oxidization on the mounts. The whole knife is “salty” and defiantly has the “been there” look. Although not a standard Model 1918 trench knife, this 1918 Knuckle Knife is a truly unique piece and is a must have to complete a fighting knife collection. A fantastic piece, if only it could talk!
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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