Original U.S. Cold War Richard Batson 1983-Dated Ranger Etched Fighting Knife in Correct Leather Sheath by Gutcher with Sharpening Rod - Extremely Rare

Original Item. One-of-a-Kind. Some of the most sought-after handmade fighting knives are those of Richard Batson, who worked part-time making knives while serving in the Army from 1958-1970, mainly for active duty personnel. He continued making knives until roughly 2013, and is renowned for his craftsmanship and attention to detail. This example is outstanding with an etched date of December 25, 1983 next to an etched RANGER scroll. This example came to us from the Larry Thomas American Edged Weapon Museum in Intercourse, Pennsylvania, further cementing its authenticity and prestige. 

The Bowie-style blade measures 6 1/8” and retains its bright finish. There is some wear near the tip and at the ricasso but nothing serious. The ricasso is carefully etched:

Richard G. Batson
Arlington, Virginia
December 25, 1983

Under this is Batson’s logo, a Bat over R in a circle. There is a recess of ¾” at the ricasso. The polished wooden grip is in fantastic order with seven brass rivets holding them in place. The pommel retains the lanyard loop, but there is no lanyard. The overall length is 10⅜”.

The original and correct leather sheath is stamped on the back:

CUSTOM MADE
AT
SULLIVANS
TAMPA, FLA.
BY GUTCHER

This is the original sheath for the knife, and has heavy verdigris on the brass rivets. There is a diagonal securing strap which still works well, but the leg tie down is gone. The sheath even has a slot for a sharpening rod, with the rod still retained. There is a small loop on the end for easy retrieval. The overall length is 13 3/8” including the belt loop.

Batson worked out of Arlington, Virginia from 1970-1993, and Rixeyville, Virginia from 1993-1996, and again from 1997-2013.

The second Richard Batson knife we have ever offered, and an outstanding example at that! Comes ready for further research and display.

Specifications:
Blade Length: 6 1/8"
Blade Style: Bowie
Overall length: 10 3/8“
Sheath Length: 13 3/8”