Original Item: Only One Available. A trench knife is a combat knife designed to kill or incapacitate an enemy at close quarters, such as in a trench or other confined area. It was developed as a close combat weapon for soldiers attacking enemy trenches during the First World War. An example of a World War I trench knife is the German Army's Nahkampfmesser (close combat knife).

During the Second World War, the trench knife, by this time also called a combat knife, was developed into new designs. On the German side, the Nahkampfmesser and associated knives were widely issued to the ordinary soldier for combat and utility purposes, while Allied armies mostly issued trench knives to elite infantry units and soldiers not equipped with the bayonet.

This knife is definitely an interesting example and was made from an already existing weapon as most were. This knife started its life out as a Krag Rifle Bayonet in 1899 but was cut down and had another edge sharpened on. This appears to be period made but the amount of cleaning and other indications are quite conflicting but due to how much the knife has been cleaned over the years, it makes it rather difficult in determining the age. The blade portion itself is still extremely sharp and does show signs of relatively recent sharpening.

The overall condition of the knife is good but there is some oxidation present as well has pitting and staining on all metal components exempt for the knuckle guard part. The included leather scabbard does appear to be a solid WWII era made example and was more than likely made from scrap leather that was found. There is no external belt loop present but there are two slits cut into the reverse which was used to pass a belt through in order to carry the knife. The sheath is in good condition but almost all of the original finish is worn away.

Comes more than ready for further research and display.