Original WWII Large EG Waterman EGW Stacked Leather Grip Fighting Knife with Custom Handle & Sheath

Original Item: Only One Available. Offered in nice condition this genuine E.G. Waterman Company of New York City produced WWII fighting knife. These knives were very popular among USGIs during WW2 due to their versatility. While not an official U.S. issue, private purchase knives were extremely common. Multiple variations were made with both wood and leather handles (see page 165 of U.S. Military Knives Collector's Guide By Silvey & Boyd). This example has a stacked leather washer handle with what look like aluminum spacers. The blade of this example is also different, without the small indent at the ricasso.

Overall length of the knife is 12 1/8”, with a 7 7/8” inch blade, but there is no cap lifter on this example, and it does not seem to conform to the Bowie style found on these. There is no marking on the ricasso of this example. 

These fighting knives were popular with the troops during the war and most purchased knives were used as intended - in camps, trenches, and in combat. EGW's high carbon steel blades kept a good edge but were prone to rust; relatively few survived the War in presentable condition such as this.

This knife has been used, but still retains much of the original factory hollow ground edge. It is not regulation The blade is rust-free with a complete tip without any nicks in the edge. Leather grip is in good condition, though has some very minor cracking due to age and moisture changes. Pommel ring and cap are slightly loose, as expected on a knife of this age.

The leather sheath appears original, and is in good shape, but there is loss to stitching at the bottom. The snap is functional, and the securing strap is in great shape.

Overall a great used example of a quality private purchase large size fighting knife.

Specifications:
Blade Length: 7 7/8”
Blade Style: Clip-point "Bowie" Style with Bottle Opener
Overall length: 12 1/8”
Crossguard: 1 15/16”
Scabbard Length: 8 1/8” with Belt Loop