WWI & WWII 1918 Knuckle Knives

The 1918 knuckle knife — also known as the M1918 trench knife — is one of the most iconic edged weapons of the First World War, and examples continued to be carried by US soldiers into the Second World War. Designed for close-quarters trench combat, the distinctive brass knuckle guard made it immediately recognizable.

Manufactured by companies including LF&C (Landers, Frary & Clark) and AU Lion, these knives were issued to American Expeditionary Forces in WWI and remained in limited service through WW2. The combination of a double-edged blade and integral knuckle duster made it a formidable fighting knife.

This example is maintained as a historical artifact representing the American soldier's personal equipment across two World Wars.