Collectables Iron knuckles

[NebrHogger]

I think I read once iron knuckles were sometimes used in WW1, if not issued. Can any of you folks confirm that? These are indeed iron rather than brass.

I acquired them from a person who said they were found in his deceased grandfather's possessions. But stories like that are ten for a penny. As shown, they're a trifle small for my hand.

 

[digrar]

During World War I the US Army issued two different knuckle knives, the US model 1917 and US model 1918 Mark I trench knives. Knuckles and knuckle knives were also being made in England at the time and purchased privately by British soldiers. By World War II, knuckles and knuckle knives were quite popular with both American and British soldiers. The Model 1918 trench knives were reissued to American paratroopers. British Commandos even had their very own "Death's Head" knuckle knife, featuring a skull-shaped brass knuckle handle.

 

[Chazman]

Interesting. I thought they were all made of brass.

 

[digrar]

I imagine brass was getting hard to get a hold of during both world wars.

 

[NebrHogger]

^ Very true. During WW2, pennies were made of steel for a time, and nickels were made of silver.