*WW2, US M3 Utica Trench/Fighting Knife and M8 Scabbard*
The US M3-Utica Fighting Knife, also known as the M3 Trench Knife, is a historical combat knife used by the United States military during World War II. It was designed for close combat and utility purposes and was issued to soldiers primarily in the United States Army and Marine Corps.
The M3-Utica Fighting Knife used a relatively narrow 6.5-inch bayonet-style spear-point blade with a sharpened 2.5-inch secondary edge, which provided versatility in combat situations. The blade was made of carbon steel, and was either blued or parkerized to reduce glare and minimize corrosion.
The handle of the M3-Utica Fighting Knife was made of leather rings compressed onto a steel tang, which provided a secure and comfortable grip. The knife also had a steel crossguard to protect the hand during combat and prevent it from sliding onto the blade. One distinctive feature of the M3-Utica Fighting Knife is its metal skull-crusher pommel, located at the end of the handle. This feature was designed to deliver a powerful impact in close-quarters combat and could also serve as a utility tool.
The early M8 scabbard only had a belt loop to fit over a pistol or trouser belt, The M3 was initially issued with a stitched and riveted leather M6 scabbard with a protective steel tip designed to prevent the point from piercing the sheath and injuring the wearer. The M6 was quickly dropped in favor of the M8 scabbard. This scabbard has a resin-impregnated cotton canvas body, painted olive drab, with a steel throat. The scabbard throat is stamped “US M8” on the flat steel part.
The M3-Utica Fighting Knife saw widespread use during World War II and was favored by soldiers for its durability, versatility, and effectiveness in combat.
The Utica Cutlery Co. made 656,520 trench knives between 1943-44.
* Condition *
Excellent condition. The blade is clean and the point is still sharp and the edges are free from nicks. The scabbard is also in good condition with some tarnishing to the metal and staining of the canvas hanger. Please refer to the images as a part of our condition report.
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