Back in Print and Better Than Ever

THE US KNIFE BAYONETS & SCABBARDS – A Collector’s Guide As a longtime collector of U.S. military edged weapons, I can confidently say that Gary M. Cunningham’s U.S. Knife Bayonets & Scabbards is one of the most important and comprehensive guides available—and I’m thrilled it’s finally back in print. For years, original copies of this book have commanded steep prices on the secondary market, and for good reason: it’s a cornerstone reference that many serious collectors have relied on for decades.

Content That Sets the Standard

This book doesn’t just list bayonets—it documents them exhaustively, covering virtually every variation of U.S. knife bayonet from WWI through modern production, including:

• M1905, M1, M4, M5, M6, M7, and M9 bayonets
• Manufacturer by manufacturer breakdowns
• Detailed scabbard variations (including the oft-overlooked M8/M8A1 types)
• Experimental models, production anomalies, and rare contract pieces

Each section provides historical context, dimensions, identifying marks, production figures where available, and side-by-side photo comparisons that help collectors differentiate subtle variations—down to grip materials, markings, and scabbard throat types.

Photography and Layout

The reprint preserves the high-quality full-color photography and clear, collector-friendly layout. The images are sharp and purposeful, showing the features that matter—blade stamps, finish variations, scabbard tips, grip textures, and more. Whether you’re cross-referencing an online auction find or validating a recent show pickup, these photos make field identification much easier.

Field Use and Real-World Value

This is not a coffee table book—it’s a working collector’s tool. I’ve taken mine to militaria shows, used it to catalog my personal collection, and even referenced it when appraising pieces for fellow collectors. It’s organized logically by bayonet type and maker, with easy-to-navigate sections for both seasoned collectors and those just getting into U.S. military blades.

Many collector communities, including forums like U.S. Militaria Forum and Gunboards, regularly cite Cunningham’s work as the definitive source—and now that it’s reprinted, a new generation of collectors has access to that same trusted information.

Bonus Value for Advanced Collectors

What sets this guide apart is the level of detail. For example:

• Curious about the differences between an Imperial and an Utica Cutlery M4? It’s here.
• Want to identify which scabbard variation is correct for your M7? You’ll find multiple illustrated examples.
• Need to know which contract years saw Parkerized blades versus phosphate finishes? Covered.

It’s also a helpful tool for spotting reproductions and mismatched pairings, which have become increasingly common in today’s market.

Whether you’re building a reference library, maintaining an investment-grade collection, or just starting your journey into U.S. military bayonets, this book is absolutely indispensable. Scott Duff Publications has done collectors a tremendous service by bringing this classic back to life in reprint form.

BY HENRY O’DONNELL

Grab a copy while they last—this is the kind of book that doesn’t stay in print forever – CLICK HERE