Red Spacer WWII Knife -USN Robeson Mark 2 -EARLIEST VERSION w/Vet ID on Sheath!

Description EARLY RED SPACER WWII ROBESON MARK 2 KNIFE This earliest-version World War II Robeson Red Spacer Mark 2 represents one of the most desirable early-war Navy fighting knives. Because of its limited production and distinctive configuration, it would make a rare addition to any advanced edged-weapon collection. Notably, this Mark 2 variation features the thick red spacer positioned directly next to the guard, which immediately identifies it as an early production model. In addition, the blade originally carried a parkerized finish, consistent with early wartime specifications. The blade measures 7″ in length. Furthermore, the front tang bears the stamp “ROBESON SHUREDGE,” while the reverse tang displays “U.S.N.” The sheath is marked ‘U.S.N.’ as well. This knife is identified to the soldier that carried in in World War 2.  The soldier wrote him name on the back of the sheath ‘F.M. QUINN 8407M’.  Many collectors seek vet-identified knives so that they can research the soldier’s service record.  The front of the scabbard is also repeatedly stamped ‘8A.’ as well.   HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE Robeson Cutlery Co. produced fewer Mark 2 knives than the other major wartime manufacturers, including Ka-Bar, Camillus, and Pal. As a result, collectors consider any Robeson Mark 2 relatively scarce. The Red Spacer Feature The red fiber spacer sits just beneath the crossguard and serves both a functional and identifying purpose. Originally, designers added this spacer to help prevent moisture from the leather washers from contacting the steel guard and causing rust. However, as wartime production demands increased, the Navy eliminated this feature to streamline manufacturing. Consequently, only the earliest 1943 examples display the red spacer. Early Blade Markings Authentic red spacer models typically carry blade markings rather than guard markings. On this example, “ROBESON ShurEdge” appears on one side of the ricasso, and “U.S.N.” appears on the other—exactly as expected for an early first-pattern knife. CONSTRUCTION DETAILS The knife features a 7-inch high-carbon steel blade with a clipped point profile, which enhances both balance and penetration capability. Additionally, the handle consists of stacked leather washers shaped for a secure grip. Robeson secured the pommel by hammering it over the tang, rather than threading or pinning it, which further confirms early production methods. COLLECTIBILITY & SCARCITY Robeson manufactured approximately 175,000 total Mark 2 knives for the Navy during World War II. However, only a fraction of that number included the earliest red spacer configuration. Therefore, surviving examples remain scarce today.   CONDITION Overall, this Robeson Red Spacer WWII knife remains in excellent condition and presents exceptionally well for an early 1943 production example.   Have a collection of premium World War 2 knives? Click here. https://stcroixblades.com/contact-us/