This is a wonderful example of a circa 1944-45 fighting knife by KUTMASTER, of Utica, New York. These knives were made commercially during the later phases of WWII, and were intended to be private purchase items for servicemen. These knives were unique in that they combined features of both the M-3 Trench Knife and the US Marine Corps/ U.S. Navy MKII Fighting Knife. While the handle and guard design are borrowed from the M3 Trench Knife, the blade design is clearly borrowed from the MKII (or KA-BAR).
This specific model is the rarer version, which had the 7” (178mm) blade. The overall condition of the knife is very good considering the age, showing signs of honest use. The knife still retains much of its original nickeled finish. Included with the knife is its original leather scabbard, which still retains its original brown russett finish. The 7” blade has a lovely false edge towards the top. The ricasso is cleanly marked with “KUTMASTER UTICA N.Y. USA”
This is an excellent example of a seldom found WWII US Fighting Knife which would make a perfect addition to a US Military Edged Weapons collection.
As we all know both the US and UK postal services will not post these knives into Australia any more making them hard to find.