Original U.S. WWI Model 1917 Bolo Knife by Plumb Philadelphia Dated 1918 with 1917-Dated Canvas Scabbard

Original Item: Only One Available. This is a very nice Model 1917 Bolo knife, manufactured by Fayette R. Plumb Inc, in Philadelphia.

This model was a moderate simplification of the earlier 1910 Bolo made by Springfield Armory. The main difference is the lack of the catch mechanism on the scabbard and grip. It was manufactured by contractors such as Plumb and A.C. Co. The blade ricasso of this example is marked:

PLUMB
PHILA
1918

The reverse is marked:

U.S.
MOD. 1917

The blade and ricasso still have some of the blackened finish. There is also the usual runner wear on both sides of the blade. The main edge of the model 1917, such as this one, is mostly ground from one side, while the other side was left flat. There is some heavy pitting across the blade.

The grip is in rough condition, with heavy material loss on both sides as shown. One side has heavy cracking.

The leather tip of the canvas scabbard sleeve is clearly marked:

BRAUER BROS.
1917

The scabbard is in good condition, with no real issues with the canvas aside from the expected wear from 100 years of age, and a bit of fabric shrinking. The rawhide cover is missing from the inner sleeve. The leather is in great shape.

Overall in rough service-used condition, and a great chance to add to any military knife collection. Ready to display!

Specifications:
Blade Length: 10 1/4"
Blade Style: "Bolo" Machete
Overall length: 15“
Crossguard: 3 3/4”
Scabbard Length: 11"