M19 Paramarine
M19 with varied grind, angled fullers, nickel silver half guard, bown linen scales, natural linen fleetsides, stainless loveless bolts, old style protect-o-plate
M19 Paramarine: varied grind, red linen micarta handle scales, brass half guard, brass loveless handle bolts, neon Turley stamp, standard protect-o-plate.
The Paramarines were a little known outfit who were active during the early part of WW2. Although they never made a combat jump they were well trained and elite. You may know the name of one famous Paramarine, Ira Hayes. Hayes was one of the Marines who posed for the second photo of the flag raising on Iwo Jima.
The Model 18 is my version of the Paramarine (or parachutist) knife made by Western for the Paramarines. The model W31 as it was known, was made specifically for the Marine paratroopers. If you’re lucky enough to find one today you’ll likely pay a pretty penny for it.
My version has the signature drop of the overall blade that I like and it is a full tang where as the original was Western’s famous split full tang. I also shortened the blade since I wanted a more compact version. There’s also an influence from the Randall fireman’s special knife here. I really like that knife, especially the guard on the full tang which makes it very safe to use while not getting in the way. This is a fun and handy little knife, pretty great for any woodsman tasks.
Handle about 4 1/4"
Blade about 3 3/4"