Original U.S. WWI M1917 Knuckle Duster Trench Knife by Oneida Community Limited OCL with Original 1918-Dated Jewell Scabbard - Extremely Rare Maker

Original Item: Only One Available. This is a very good condition Model 1917 trench knife with hardwood handle, triangular stiletto blade, and leather scabbard with standard GI pistol belt hook attachment. This example is one of the scarcest we have offered, manufactured in 1918 by Oneida Community Limited or OCL. This is often considered to be one of the rarest makers of this knife. 

This variant is like the original Disston design, with the flanged, serrated knuckle guard projections, not the pyramidal projections found on the more common LF&C knife. Also, like the Disston design, the pommel cap is of the threaded variety, a system that was retained on the American Cutlery production model as well. This threaded cap secured the blade to the guard and walnut grip.

Oneida Community Ltd was initially established as a maker of silver and flatware that grew out of the utopian Oneida Community established in 1848 by John Humphrey Noyes in upstate New York. Although the utopian community failed and came apart at the seams during the 1870s, many of their community businesses remained solvent and continued in business well into the 20th Century. In the early 1900s, Oneida Community Ltd increased advertising and brand recognition efforts, and eventually made themselves one of the best known and most recognized silver and flatware manufacturers in the United States, and eventually the world. During World War I, the company supported the war effort by manufacturing ammunition clips, lead plated gas shells and of course, combat knives. In 1935, they changed the company name to Oneida, Ltd and the company remains in business to this day.

The crossguard is clearly stamped:

U. S.
O. C. L.
1918

The handguard retains much of the original finish but there is some scattered oxidation as shown. The blade is 9”, retaining its original length. 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. The scabbard is in fair condition with the same heavy surface oxidation on the throat and drag. The throat is a bit loose but it’s in great shape overall. It is still nicely marked JEWELL 1918.

All variants of the flanged “dragon teeth” knives are less common than the typically encountered LF&C pyramid guard knives. The Oneida made knives are extremely scarce and simply do not appear on the market with any regularity. A really great example, the first we have ever offered by OCL, ready for further research and display.

Dimensions:
Blade length: 9”
Overall length: 14 ¼”
Scabbard length: 10"
Handguard: 4 1/2”x 5”