All About Pocket Knives

Friends,
Maybe you can give me some info, advice or point me in the right direction.

I'm looking for a WWII Army Air Corps Utility Knife. I'm not looking for a museum piece - rather, I'm looking for one I can carry in memory of my father (his was lost after his death). It has to be usable but not a "serious collector piece."

My problem (other than finding one) is how to positively identify one when I come across it. I believe that Camillus made a huge number so have focused on Camillus. I understand that their first version was the S6018, that evolved a year later into the 14J95C and the 14J95A (with clevis).
I do not know if these numbers appear on the knife.

I believe that the blade is marked with 4 lines:
Camillus
Cutlery Co
Camillus, NY
USA

However, I'm not at all clear what other identifying markings may be on the knife - nor if all blades were marked.

Can anyone tell me how I can positively identify the Army Air Corps Utility ?

Thanks for any info or suggestions. Have a happy Thanksgiving, everyone.

Hugh

Welcome Hugh!

Look at this thread http://www.allaboutpocketknives.com/kni ... 35&t=24625 You will find examples of what you are looking for.

Thank you, Miller Bro's.
I just started going through this huge number of postings. This ought to tell me what I need to know....or, make new questions arise This is really helpful. Maybe now when I go to the shows, flea markets etc. I can be FAR more confident than I am now.
Hugh

Your welcome


TJ has a nice example of the knife you are looking for on page 2 and 3.

Wow! He certainly does have a nice one!
This is a fascinating thread you've put me on. I am focused on the Army Air Corps knife but reading about the wide variety of other WWII knives is a real education.
Thanks!

Dull wrote:This is a fascinating thread you've put me on. I am focused on the Army Air Corps knife but reading about the wide variety of other WWII knives is a real education.

Watch out, knife collecting is very addictive!

Don`t say I did not warn you

Whew! I'll say this is addictive!
I'm still hunting for the Army Air Forces utl. knife but.....I'm also going to be keeping an eye out for some of these others, too. Lust.
The photography of you and the others is really first rate. Very impressive, indeed. And, what a bunch of beautiful knives! These are far too nice to ride around in my pocket.
I accumulate (not collect) old US rifles - but, they're shooters, I don't want museum pieces, I want to shoot them. I feel the same way about these knives. If I were to stumble upon a never-used knife I'd find someone who'd appreciate it..and not use it. I use my old stuff.
I feel like a junkie looking for a fix.
And, I don't blame you...I thank you!
Hugh

In this hobby the main thing is to collect what you like, not what others tell you are valuable or you should collect. There are plenty of old knives to go around, these military pocket knives were made by the millions, so if you find one in average condition you can use it. I do agree if you do find one in unused condition you should either preserve it for future generations or sell it to a collector who will do just that.

Stick around and have fun!

I'll certainly be sticking around. Lots to read and soak up.
I appreciate your advice, too.

Can't thank you enough for your help.

Hugh