What did i just buy

D

Doc187

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Looks like a western w49 but it has strange markings and was nickle or chrome plated. I think it was made for the military during Vietnam or at least that's what I'm hoping. Anyone have any insight?
 

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I believe there was a version of the W49 made for our military, but I'm afraid I have a Bowie from Pakistan that looks not unlike yours. Except for the stamps, which mine doesn't have.
I hope I'm wrong.
 
Everyone has made a version of the w49. I didn't pay much for it so I don't think the stamping on the blade is fake. Plus they look as old as the knife. I can't find any info on the net.
 
At least it appears you have a US made version. I googled W49 and actually found quite a bit of info on. Good luck 👍
 
I have a very similar looking bowie knife made in Pakistan. But yours could be an old W49.
 
Doc187 said:
Looks like a western w49 but it has strange markings and was nickle or chrome plated. I think it was made for the military during Vietnam or at least that's what I'm hoping. Anyone have any insight?
Click to expand...
It only has the basic form of a W49. Other than the blade and handle being different, its pretty much the same........🙄
ZibtUdK.jpg
 
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Arathol said:
It only has the basic form of a W49. Other than the blade and handle being different, its pretty much the same........🙄
ZibtUdK.jpg
Click to expand...
Agree with this. Also on OP knife the letters and numbers all appear to be individually stamped... and is that "S" upside down? I personally think that the W49 is a horrid knife, but the thing in the OP is horrider!😁
 
The earlier Western W49's had the smaller Handle rivets, your Blade grind is quite off when compared to the original, and I don't think Western ever made a Chrome Plated Blade.
Individual stamps are just that, and possibly have been placed to give it the Military look - but :(
I used to have a few of these- totally regret selling my earlier one.
 
There are numerous third world copies of numerous American, European and Japanese made knives. For example there are currently a lot of eBay sellers peddling fake MAC chefs knives for well under $100. One should always closely scrutinize the markings and comparative build quality, but first clue to a fake new quality knife is an absurdly cheap price.
 
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