Revolutionary War Fascine Knife, ca. 1745 – 1775, as in museums and books

This is another nice piece being offered, it is a hand-forged Revolutionary War Fascine Knife, ca. 1745 - 1775. It measures 13” overall and the widest part of the blade is 2” and has a bone/antler handle.

The fascine knife was a common cutting tool of colonial soldiers (also known as brush hook or brush cutter). It was a side arm/tool issued to both American and British light infantry, engineers, and artillery (including German troops). It served both as a personal weapon and as a tool to cut fascines and clear brush when needed. Fascines are bundles of branches and sticks used to reinforce defensive embankments, trenches, and earth ramparts.

The knife remains in every solid condition – the handle and blade still tight. There are fascine knives shown in “Collector’s Illustrated Encyclopedia of the American Revolution” by Neumann & Kravic and in Revolutionary War museums (see pictures).

Revolutionary War artifacts have always been difficult to find, and I am fortunate to have quite a few pieces in stock. With the upcoming of the 250th anniversary of the nation's founding next year, there will be a revitalized interest. Just about all Revolutionary War relics and artifacts will be in demand, which will only add to their scarcity and price. I am already seeing a substantial increase in purchases.