Original U.S. WWI M1917 Knuckle Duster Trench Knife by American Cutlery Co. - Rare Maker

Original Item: Only One Available. This is a very good condition Model 1917 trench knife with hardwood handle, triangular stiletto blade, just missing the scabbard.

Inside the knuckle guard is is nicely marked:

A.C. CO USA 1917

This indicates 1917 manufacture by American Cutlery Corporation, of Chicago Illinois. This company, established in 1865, manufactured a multitude of edged weapons, as well as other products. This is a far more difficult maker to find than L.F.&C.

This example has some heavy wear and scratching across the knuckles and guard, which certainly hurts the finish. The blade is in good condition, with about 80% of the original finish, but there is some scattered oxidation spotting. The wood grip is still in great shape with a few scuff marks as shown. This example is missing the scabbard. Ready for further research and display.

Dimensions:
Blade length: 8 5/8”
Overall length: 13 3/4”
Scabbard length: 9 7/8"
Handguard: 4 1/2”x 5”

The first official U.S. trench knife adopted for service issue was the U.S. M1917 trench knife designed by Henry Disston & Sons, and based on examples of trench knives then in service with the French Army. 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.