US Model 1917 Bolo Knife***STILL AVAILABLE***

US Model 1917 Bolo Knife-An excellent example of this WWI US issue knife with a ribbed wooden handle with steel hilt fittings. The steel fittings have lost their finish and are now coated with a light rust that gives this steel a nice dark brownish color that matches the brown ribbed wooden handle. This knife measures 15 inches (38.1 cm) in length. The bolo style blade is marked with 'U.S. / MOD. 1917 / C.T' (Model 1917; Inspector 'C T') on the obverse ricasso, the reverse ricasso maker marked 'A.C. CO / CHICAGO /1918' (American Cutlery Company of Chicago, Illinois). The bolo shaped blade measures 10 ¼ inches (26.03cm) long. It retains good percentage of its finish but does show some light pitting but is overall in sound condition. The canvas covered scabbard has a thick leather lower fitting, which is lightly maker marked and dated 1918. Overall, very good condition.History: The United States military used the same basic bolo knife from the turn of the century all the way through to the WW2. In the beginning, the bolo was only issued to Hospital Corps in the fields. The long machete-type weapon was mainly used in jungle like surroundings to clear brush and for any task requiring a 'chopper'. The Philippine-American war of 1899-1902 was where American troops began to use this local weapon, and realized its usefulness. In the Philippines, machetes were called bolos, and this name stuck even as the knife went through several changes in its appearance. After the military had less use for such a long weapon, the bolo was considerably shortened. It was then issued to troops needing to clear their field of fire, such as machine gun squads.Online checkout is not supported for edged weapons. Please note that some items are listed as 'SOLD OUT' for this reason. All edged weapons listed on the website are available for purchase. Please contact us for any questions, or to purchase thanks!