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Exceptional U.S. M1917 Trench Knife by L.F. & C., 1917 – Pristine Condition with Jewell 1918 Scabbard
Guns International #: 103204575 Seller's Inventory #:
Category: Knives - Military US - Knives
Seller's Information
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Seller: Big Ir0n
Company: Michael Merker Riflemakers
Member Since: 2/26/07
First Name: Michael
Last Name: Merker
State: North Carolina
Country: United States
Phone: (828) 698-8804
Platinum Seller
Seller: FFL Dealer
Return Policy: 3 day inspection and return policy on used guns.
3 days
Payment Types Accepted: Personal Check, Money Order
Description:
Exceptional U.S. M1917 Trench Knife by L.F. & C., 1917 – Pristine Condition with Jewell 1918 Scabbard
Step into the gritty history of World War I with this museum-quality U.S. Model 1917 trench knife, a rare and iconic artifact from the trenches of the Western Front. Crafted by Landers, Frary & Clark (L.F. & C.) in 1917, this authentic piece is one of the finest examples of the first standardized trench knife issued to U.S. troops, designed for the brutal close-quarters combat that defined the Great War. Marked "U.S. L.F. & C. 1917" on its distinctive six-pyramid knuckle guard, this knife is a testament to American ingenuity and the harsh realities of trench warfare.
Historical Significance
The U.S. M1917 trench knife was born from the chaos of WWI, inspired by French designs to equip American doughboys for silent, lethal encounters in confined trenches. Its 9-inch triangular stiletto blade, unmarked as per original design, was engineered to pierce thick uniforms and deliver devastating, hard-to-close wounds—perfect for nighttime raids or sentry takedowns. The six pyramid-shaped spikes on the D-guard knuckle protector, a hallmark of select L.F. & C. models, doubled as a striking weapon, offering both protection and offense. Issued to units like the American Expeditionary Forces, this knife saw action in the muddy, desperate battles of 1917–1918. Its design, though replaced by the M1918 due to blade fragility, remains a symbol of the era’s raw combat intensity.
Condition and Details
This M1917 is in exceptional condition, making it one of the best-preserved examples available today:
- Blade: The 9-inch triangular stiletto retains an impressive 90% of its original bluing, with no pitting and only a couple of minor scrapes from light use. Its razor-sharp geometry is intact, showcasing the lethal intent of its design.
- Knuckle Guard: The steel D-guard, stamped "U.S. L.F. & C. 1917," also boasts 90% bluing, with a few small dings that add character without detracting from its pristine appearance. The six pyramidal spikes are sharp and undamaged, a rare feature for this variant.
- Handle: The wooden grip with finger grooves shows light usage wear, retaining its original finish and secure riveted pommel, which could double as a striking tool.
- Scabbard: The accompanying green leather scabbard, marked "Jewell 1918" with "MS"-stamped metal ends, is in 95% condition. The leather is supple with minimal wear.
Why This Piece Stands Out
This M1917 is not just a knife—it’s a time capsule from a pivotal moment in military history. The six-pyramid knuckle guard is a scarcer variant of L.F. & C.’s production, and the near-mint "Jewell 1918" scabbard is exceptionally rare, as most leather sheaths from the period have deteriorated. With no pitting, 90% bluing on both blade and guard, and a 95% condition scabbard, this is one of the highest-quality M1917 trench knives available on the market. Its condition reflects careful preservation, making it ideal for serious collectors, historians, or display alongside other WWI militaria.
Price and Contact
Price: $1,250 USD
This is a no-compromise offering for one of the finest M1917 trench knives you’ll find online. The combination of historical authenticity, rare six-pyramid design, and near-mint condition with a matching period scabbard justifies its value. No apologies—this is a premier piece for discerning collectors.
Price: $1,250.00