Original U.S. WWI Model 1917 Bolo Knife by Plumb St. Louis with Canvas Scabbard Cover - No Scabbard - Dated 1918

Original Item: Only One Available. This is a nice Model 1917 C.T. Bolo knife, manufactured by Fayette R. Plumb Inc, whose main factory was in the Bridesburg region of Philadelphia, PA. They had another factory, just constructed, in St. Louis as well, and 1917 bolos were produced at both.

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
ST. LOUIS
1918

The reverse is marked:

U.S. MOD.
1917 C.T.

The markings are mostly complete and still legible.

Blade and ricasso still have much of the original black finish, and are in very good condition. 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 just some very light sharpening from the flat side, which was the quickest way to get the edge back.

The grip is in good but heavily worn condition, with some of the original "ribbed” texture, and a dark color. There is some minor material loss on both sides. Just how we like to see them, with screws still holding both sides tightly.

This example retains the original canvas scabbard cover, but the interior scabbard itself is entirely missing. The cover still works fine for display, and is marked BAUER BROS 1918.

Overall in very good lightly 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”