Is this Camillus (MKII/1219C2?) from 1974-1989

The Camillus Cutlery Company was one of the oldest knife manufacturers in the United States with roots dating back to 1876. The company manufactured Camillus branded knives and was a prolific contractor for other knife brands up until its last days in 2007 when the company filed for bankruptcy.
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Ittsukan
Posts: 49
Joined: Sun Jun 09, 2024 11:29 pm

Is this Camillus (MKII/1219C2?) from 1974-1989

Post by Ittsukan »

Picked up this Camillus fighting/utility (MKII/1219C2?) knife with sheath today.
I don't think they are very common in Canada. Trying to get a date on it.
I went throught the spotting a repro Camillus page at http://www.usmilitaryknives.com/camillus.htm and through the forums.
It's not WWII era, I think probably 1974 to 1989. The last photo shows the tang stamp and a side by side with my WWII Ka-Bar.
Would appreciate any thoughts or opinions in it.
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zzyzzogeton
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Re: Is this Camillus (MKII/1219C2?) from 1974-1989

Post by zzyzzogeton »

That is a 1974 to 1984 version based on the stamp.

A WW2 made Camillus will have either USN MK2 (394831) or USMC (1219C2) as part of the stamp, either on the ricasso or the guard.

A VN era (1962-1973) government contract 20227 will have US over CAMILLUS NY.

The post-VN contract knives (1974 to 1984) had a stamp of US over CAMILLUS. No NY.

The purely commercial versions made by Camillus after they lost their government contract had the 3 line Camillus stamp.
Ittsukan
Posts: 49
Joined: Sun Jun 09, 2024 11:29 pm

Re: Is this Camillus (MKII/1219C2?) from 1974-1989

Post by Ittsukan »

Thanks. I was pretty sure but always like to get a second opinion.
andylate
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Re: Is this Camillus (MKII/1219C2?) from 1974-1989

Post by andylate »

Mine was purchased in a bag with a National Stock Number at a Army Clothing and Sales store, which means it was a military contract knife. It has the post-1989 stamp.
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