US Model 1917 Bolo Knife Value Guide

The US Model 1917 Bolo Knife is a rugged piece of military history inspired by traditional Philippine designs and adopted by the US Army for clearing brush and utility tasks. These knives are highly collectible due to their direct association with American doughboys in the trenches of World War I and their continued use into the early stages of World War II.

What affects the value of US Model 1917 Bolo Knife?

• Condition of the blade, specifically the presence of original factory sharpening versus heavy aftermarket grinding.
• The integrity of the scabbard, as the canvas and leather components often deteriorate or are lost over time.
• Manufacturer rarity, with certain contractors being more desirable to specialized military collectors.
• Overall patina and the absence of heavy pitting or rust on the steel surfaces.

How to Identify US Model 1917 Bolo Knife?

• Check for the 'U.S. MOD. 1917' stamp and manufacturer initials like 'PLUMB' or 'AC CO' on the blade ricasso.
• Verify the presence of the original scabbard, which should feature a combination of heavy canvas and a leather tip.
• Examine the handle for two large bolts securing the wooden grips to the full-tang steel blade.
• Look for a date stamp (1917 or 1918) on the blade to confirm it is a genuine WWI-era production.

History of US Model 1917 Bolo Knife

The Model 1917 Bolo Knife was officially adopted by the United States Army in 1917, during World War I. It was designed as a utility knife for soldiers, particularly for clearing brush and light chopping tasks, inspired by the traditional Philippine bolo knife. While it saw service in WWI, its use continued into the interwar period and even into the early stages of World War II, before being largely replaced by more modern designs. These knives are a tangible piece of military history, representing the equipment used by American soldiers in significant global conflicts.