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Vintage KA-BAR USMC Fighting Knife - Olean, New York - WWII Military Pattern
A Legendary American Military Knife With a Story to Tell
Offered here is a vintage KA-BAR USMC fighting and utility knife, bearing the historic KA-BAR / OLEAN, N.Y. manufacturer marking on one side of the blade and USMC on the opposite side.
This knife follows one of the most recognizable American military knife designs of the 20th century, a pattern made famous by United States Marines during World War II.
THE HISTORY - BORN OUT OF WORLD WAR II
When the United States entered World War II, American servicemen needed a rugged, versatile fighting and utility knife capable of handling demanding conditions in combat and everyday field service.
The USMC 1219C2 fighting/utility knife was developed during this period, with production beginning in 1943.
Union Cutlery Company of Olean, New York, was among the American manufacturers that produced these knives for military service under its famous KA-BAR trademark.
The design became especially associated with U.S. Marines serving throughout the Pacific Theater, including the island campaigns against Japanese forces. From the jungles of Guadalcanal to the brutal fighting on Peleliu, Iwo Jima, and Okinawa, the KA-BAR became an enduring symbol of the American Marine.
Similar fighting/utility knives were also used by U.S. Navy personnel, and the general pattern became a lasting part of American military equipment.
These knives were valued not only for combat but also for cutting rope, opening supplies, preparing field materials, and performing countless everyday tasks under difficult conditions.
The stacked leather handle, protective crossguard, substantial steel blade, and robust pommel helped establish a design that remains recognizable generations later.
CONSTRUCTION DETAILS AND HISTORICAL INTEREST
This particular knife displays several features worth noting for collectors of early military KA-BAR designs:
* KA-BAR / OLEAN, N.Y. stamped into the blade
* USMC marking on the opposite side
* Traditional stacked leather washer handle
* Classic clip-point blade with long swedge
* Substantial steel crossguard
* Thick steel pommel measuring approximately 9.44 mm, close to 3/8 inch
* Rectangular metal tang end visible at the base of the pommel, appearing peened and firmly seated
* Circular retaining feature visible on one side of the pommel
* Aged steel finish with extensive patina and oxidation
Early WWII KA-BAR production included thick pommels with peened tang construction, and the Olean, N.Y. marking is associated with early manufacturer-marking variations.
These characteristics make this an interesting example for collectors studying the development of the USMC fighting knife.
The exact manufacturing period of this particular knife has not been authenticated. The presence of a one-sided pommel retaining feature also warrants consideration when comparing wartime and later production examples.
CONDITION
This knife is offered in vintage, unrestored condition.
The blade displays substantial surface oxidation, discoloration, finish wear, and age-related patina. The original markings remain clearly legible.
The stacked leather handle shows age and handling wear. The rectangular tang end at the pommel is firmly seated, with no detectable looseness during inspection.
The knife has not been polished or refinished in preparation for sale.
Please examine all photographs closely, particularly the blade markings, pommel construction, handle, and overall condition.
A PIECE OF AMERICAN MILITARY KNIFE HISTORY
Whether displayed in a military collection, studied for its construction characteristics, or appreciated as an example of the famous KA-BAR design, this knife represents a pattern closely associated with the history of the United States Marine Corps.
Its appearance and construction reflect the enduring design that became famous during World War II.
IMPORTANT: This listing does not guarantee a specific production year, WWII manufacture, military issuance, combat use, or service in any particular theater. Historical information describes the KA-BAR design and its military significance, not a verified service history for this individual knife.
The knife pictured is the exact item being offered and will be sold in its present condition.
