WW2 - U.S. JUNGLE MACHETE

[Mervyn Mitton]

We seem to have come out of the drought for edged weapons - so, herewith an interesting piece.

Made by the well known firm of Collins & Co. in the United States, this heavy duty machete was intended for use in a dense jungle environment. One immediately thinks of the Pacific islands that American Forces had to fight their way through from 1941 onwards - however, this one has quite another story. It was part of a consignment sold to Britain - and was for use in the jungles of Malaya and in Central Africa. The original officer was in the famous South African regiment - The Transvaal Scottish .

Strangely, after 1941 and US entry to the War, Collins could not keep-up with the demand and they were also licensed to be made in Canada.Britain had their own pattern and it was contained in a green canvas scabbard.

The length overall is 19.5 inches (50cm) and the blade only - 14.5 inches (37cm)

The machete is heavy as it was intended to have a strong cutting action. Total in scabbard - 954 gms.(1.8 lbs.) Blade - 731gms. (1.5 lbs)

The scabbard is of fine hide and is date stamped 1941. However, the blade is 1940 so, it would seem likely they were mixed-up in the stores.

Machetes in this condition are now highly sought after.

[Mervyn Mitton]

[Mervyn Mitton]

[Mervyn Mitton]

An interesting question - is the number 1250 a manufacturing number - or, a serial number ? If it is the serial number, then this is early in production

[Mervyn Mitton]

[Mervyn Mitton]

From reverse of scabbard. Date is 1941

[Brian Wolfe]

Very nice Mervyn,

I had one that was a lot longer made for the USN (U.S.Navy). Other than the N.S.N. stamp it was maked and had a label just like your's. As soon as I traded it I regretted doing so, but "thems the breaks".

Regards

Brian

[Chris Boonzaier]

Although the handle is different the sheath and blade are dead ringers for the brit machete