M1917 LF&C Trench Knife WWI

[Klaatu]

I have been trying to do some research on my M1917 Trench Knife and have been having a difficult time trying to figure out some of the manufacturers.  Knife was made by Landers Frary & Clark (LF&C) and  the sheath is supposedly made by Jewel Belt Co. but cannot find any markings that show that.  There are also two marking of MS on the sheath that I cannot figure out either.  There is also a marking on the sheath of H.E. that I cannot identify what this means..   Anyway, can someone help identify these markings?  See pictures

[tarheeltim]

Near the top metal piece on the scabbard, by the seam in the leather, should be the "Jewell 1918" stamp. I believe the "H.E." stamp is a proof mark, perhaps the armament inspector's initials.

[Klaatu]

Thank you Tarheeltim for that information.  I can't believe I missed that but it is very faint.  I needed the right lighting to see it.  Most of the leather is a little worn but now I know where to look, it is clearly marked.  Thanks again.

[militariaone]

This thread may answer some of your questions.

 

https://www.warrelics.eu/forum/ww1-allies-great-britain-france-usa-etc-1914-1918/u-s-m-1917-m-1918-trench-knivesa-yes-just-wooden-handled-ones-577741/

 

Best,

 

V/r Lance

[Klaatu]

Militariaone, Thank you for that thread link on the M1917/18 trench knives.  Very good information. This is a nasty looking knife but apparently it was not very practical or  popular with the guys in the trenches.

Al

[mikie]

My Dad was issued one of these knives when he joined the New York National Guard in 1940. He sent it home to my grandparents (if I remember the story correctly), after he arrived in Hawaii in early 1942. It was not a well

liked weapon and was quickly replaced by a flat bladed trench knife. But I have no idea what it was. I have the knife and his M1917A1 helmet he also sent home at the same time. But I’ll be sending them off to my nephew one of these days. 
mikie

[Klaatu]

They must have had a surplus of these knives from WWI and I would imagine that these M1917 trench knives would have been issued prior to WWII.  Your Dad must have quickly realized these knives were not practical.  In 1940 the US was not prepared or equipped for war but that quickly changed at the end of 1941.