Scarce WW1 British Trench Machete

Here on offer is a very unusual example of what I believe is a WW1 private purchase, British “Trench” machete.

I have seen examples of French WW1 trench machetes, that normally retain the billhook at the end and a leather sheath, as shown in my last photo.

A one-handed billhook and a machete are both cutting tools, but they have different designs and intended uses.

I acquired this piece along with a small collection of other original WW1 blades and trench clubs.

This British version has a heavy 9” blade that has had the billhook tip removed, which means it has a more traditional straight machete blade. This means it would fit easily into a standard and possibly shortened machete scabbard. Sadly, there is no scabbard with this piece.

On the blade it is stamped with what I think is the maker and type, NASH N308 and the words: MADE IN ENGLAND. Near the ferrule it is also stamped: 9”.

It looks to me as if the blade has been blued and blacked, possibly to act as a trench warfare weapon? Given its weight it also makes a great club and blade for use in tight trench fighting conditions, when terrifying night raids were undertaken by both sides!

The handle has been shaped from one piece of wood, possibly oak, that fits over the tang of the blade. It shows signs of splitting and repair and I have just waxed the handle to restore the beautiful grain.

The handle is fitted to the blade with a large steel ferrule collar.

It is in overall great condition and still retains a good edge on the curved section of the blade. All the steel shows areas of light pitting and age staining to the finish.

The blade measures 9” (23cm) long and the whole machete is 15.4” (39cm) long.

It weighs a heavy 660g.

This is a great opportunity to obtain and rare example of what I believe to be a WW1 British Army machete that was to be used as a trench utility tool and possibly a weapon during WW1.

Please see my pictures for the details of the condition, which complement this description.

Please see my TERMS OF BUSINESS regarding Deliver Charges and Insurance regarding additional insurance cover, should you require it, BEFORE the item is dispatched.

The responsibility lies with the customer to check with your Customs restrictions that this item can be imported into your country.

Thanks for taking the time to look.

Code: 51284