OSS Stilettos

[Bizio]

Hello to everybody,
here are the pictures of two OSS Stilettos.
The first one is standard lenght with two hardness proof on its blade.
The other one is shorter lenghjt with one hardness proof on its blade.
Any information will be appreciated.
Than you.

Information

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[browningautorifle]

Is there any markings on the crosspiece?

[Bizio]

No markings at all but the hardness proof, browningautorifle.

[Johnny Peppers]

I thought all the blades were the same length at just over 6 3/4". The scabbards appear to be the same length, so maybe one has been re-tipped.

[browningautorifle]

The blades look to be original finish blue. I've re-tipped my share of this sort of thing, I think they're original...whatever they are!

[Johnny Peppers]

Re-tipping that blade doesn't require the removal of any finish. They were so thin toward the point that the blade only had to be re-contoured, and then an edge applied. The blades were supposedly English make for the O.S.S.

The odd shaped cutout in the upper part of the metal of the scabbard was to hold an O-ring which was slipped over the handle to secure the knife in the scabbard. Most found today are in unissued condition.

[gsimmons]

If I remember correctly the knives were made by Wilkinson, just not marked.

[KeithSmith]

OSS Stiletto's were made in the U.S. by the Landers, Frary and Clark company. The blades have two hardness proof markings because the initial heat treatment was done improperly and they were subsequently re-heat treated. It was alleged but never proven that employees with Axis sympathies sabotaged the production of the knives and were the cause of the problems.

[Bizio]

Thank You all for the info.