WW2 US Army Air Force Folding Survival Machete with Blade Cover by CAMILLUS USA

Here on offer is an excellent and unmodified original WW2 USAAF folding machete manufactured by CAMILLUS of the USA.

My understanding is that in 1942, the U.S. Army Air Force (USAAF) adopted this type of Folding Machete for use in the B-2 and B-4 Bail out kits.

It was designed to replace the Model 18 Collins machete, which took up a lot of space in the emergency kits. The folding machete is only about 11” long when folded up.

Three knife manufactures, Case, Camillus, and Cattaraugus were contracted by the USAAF to manufacture these folding machetes.

This really fine example is clearly marked on the blade with CAMILLUS, showing it was made by Camillus Cutlery Company, based in Camillus, New York, USA.

This example is in great condition, and still retains the black painted metal blade edge protector, which is often missing/lost. There is some loss of paint to the protector.

The black composite grip plates are in fine original condition. The shape of the grip was not very comfortable and a lot of these machetes have been modified to fit the hand. It is now unusual to find the grips in their original condition.

The very strong blade locking mechanism works perfectly and the machete folds up as originally designed. I have just applied some gun oil to the joint to aid with its operation.

PLEASE BE VERY CAREFUL WHEN FOLDING THE BLADE AND ENSURE THE BLADE COVER IS IN PLACE TO PROTECT YOUR FINGERS!

The massive blade is in good condition, retaining its original shape and sharp edge, with areas of age related staining and very light pitting, which could be removed if required.

The machete OPEN measures about 15.5” (39.4cm) long, when CLOSED measures 11.4” (28.8cm) and the blade measures 10.1” (25.5cm) long.

It weighs a heavy 670g.

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: 51341