USAF Pilots Survival Knife, Camillus Cutlery, Early/Mid 1960’s

Description

This is a USAF Pilots Survival Knife by Camillus Cutlery. These very recognizable knives got their start during the Korean War, when the Defense Department began spelling out requirements for a knife for aircrews as early as 1953. By the 1960s the design had been refined to the knife we know today. The general idea behind the knife was to give aircrews a tool they could use to free themselves from an aircraft and to defend themselves with. At the time 3 companies were considered with the production of these knives, the Marble Arms Corp, Camiillus Cutlery of NY and the Ontario Knife Company. While Camillus Cutlery ultimately won the military contract, Ontario Knife Company continued to produce the knives as well. The knives have a straight edge, with a rough serrated edge along the back of the blade. A small metal cross guard helps protect the users hand. These guards commonly have two small holes drilled into one side to aid in helping lash the knife to poles. We think. The handles grip is made from leather disks and the handle is capped with a large metal pommel. The sheath is belt mountable and securely holds the knife with a simple button snap strap. On the front of the sheath there is a small pouch for a knife sharpener. Most sheaths, except for early examples, have a reinforced metal cap, with some occasionally having a metal reinforced back. These are knives that are meant and made for serious use, and were commonly kept by their user as they left the Military.

The example in the pictures is the exact knife you will receive. This example was produced by the Camillus Cutlery prior to 1967. Exact date is unknown, as prior to 1966/67 the knives did not include a manufacture date on the handle/blade. The blade is in solid shape overall however there is some rusting at the base of it as well as the handle being rather dried out. The sheath is intact but has been pretty well loved. The button snap that retains the knife is functional but the strap its mounted to is missing a chunk of leather. This example does have its sharpening stone however it is broken.

Features:

• Includes Knife Sheath – Include sheath for knife for storage and carry.
• This is Fancy – This item has been deemed Fancy by the Cataloging Team.
• Please Read Main Description For Important Details! – Main Description contains notes that apply to the item.

Manufactured by:

• Camillus Cutlery – Camillus Cutlery is a producer of knives for the civilian and military markets.

Country of Manufacture: USA – This product is manufactured in the #1 country, the USA.

Issue Type: USAF Issue – This item is genuine US Air Force issue.