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

Original Item: Only One Available. Offered in nice service-worn condition this genuine E.G. Waterman Company of New York City produced WWII fighting knives. 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, without spacers on the end.

Overall length of the knife is 11 ½”, with a 7 ¼” inch "bowie" blade, complete with a cap lifter though it appears to have been filed down, which is common. The ricasso is factory-stamped with the classic up-side down marking:

E.G.W
KNIFE

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 heavily. It seems to have been sharpened very much over time, and the blade’s shape has changed. The blade has some oxidation as shown. 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. 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: 6”
Blade Style: Clip-point "Bowie" Style with Bottle Opener
Overall length: 10 ½”
Crossguard: 1 15/16”
Scabbard Length: 6 7/8” with Belt Loop