The M3 fighting knife was made for U.S. forces during 1943 and 1944. Early versions made in 1943 had their blades stamped with model designation, maker’s name and sometimes date. Later in 1944 to prevent weakening of blades the stampings were made on the knives’ guards (see M.H.Cole, ‘U.S Military Knives Bayonets and Machetes Book III’ page 95 and page 97 No 12). This is an excellent original WW2 early variant US M3 Fighting Knife with maker stamped blade & M8A1 Scabbard With Integral Frog (the M8A1 plastic scabbard evolved from the M8 scabbard which did not have the metal belt hook, see page 104 of Cole’s book). It has a clean 6 ½” parkerised steel blade with medial ridge. The blade is stamped by the manufacturer 'US M3 Utica' (Utica Cutlery USA). The correct compressed leather ringed handle is tight and undamaged. The knife is complete with its original M8A1 scabbard with integral green webbing frog which has the correct steel belt hook, single retaining strap and press stud fastener. The upper mount of the scabbard is stamped 'US M8A1' & by the manufacturer 'VP Co' (Victory Plastics Company). The green plastic body of the scabbard has cast ‘VP’ mark (Victory Plastics). The tip of the scabbard is holed for thigh cord. The price includes UK delivery. ED 207 (American knives & knife bayonets box)
£595.00