Ron: These trench knives are farily close copies of an original style. The things that give them away are as follow:
1. No traces of paint on the scabbard. Originals were painted either black or field gray before the leather was attached.
2. Condition of the leather, virtually no age or wear.
3. No wear to paint on handle strap snap cover.
4. No wear or age to the grip.
5. Grip plates are Rosewood,a type of wood found in India but not native to Europe.
6. No wear or age to the blade.
7. Lack of wear or age to rivets attaching belt loop to scabbard.
These knives can easily fool one, particularly if they have been played with to add artificial age. Don't forget these knives are supposed to be more than 90 years old. An original, even one in mint unissued condition, will show some evidence of age and oxidation.
Note: The same company in India also produced very good copies of the crank handle bayonet/trench knife.
Reservist1
