US M3 Imperial Trench Knife

[Nico]

Hello everyone,

What is up with this M3 trench knife?
The handle looks off to me.
The cloth piece on the scabbard is quite strange as well.
Arsenal reworked or a reproduction?

Your opinions would be appreciated.

Best,
Nico

[Kilian]

In my opinion this is an original knife with a new handle and new finish. Can’t tell if it is the work of an arsenal or a skilled craftsman. There seem to be remains of white glue in the first two grooves from the crossguard. I have never seen such cloth cover on a scabbard.

[Kohima]

The cloth cover appears to be an individual affectation... not exactly ‘field made’, but a quite elaborate, rigger-type affair, designed to kill reflection.
I like it.

[Nico]

Thank you for your input.
Has anyone seen any similar handwritten markings on sheaths/scabbards or other field gear/equipment from the 1940s-1970s?