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Morse Diving Equipment Company U.S. Navy Mark V Standard Dive Knife ~ Vintage
$595.00
Current stock:
1
Morse Diving Equipment Company U.S. Navy Mark V Standard Dive Knife ~ Vintage
The Morse Diving Equipment Company, established in 1837, is most famous for its production of the U.S. Navy Mark V Standard Dive Knife , which accompanied the iconic Mark V hardhat diving system.
Features
Morse Mark V Dive Knife
- Unique Threaded Design: Unlike modern friction-fit knives, this knife threads (screws) into its sheath. This specialized feature ensures the knife is never lost on the ocean floor but requires more time for the diver to unscrew and deploy.
- Dual-Edge Blade: The stainless steel blade measures between 6.5" long. It features one sharp straight edge for slicing and a serrated spine for sawing through heavy natural fibers, ropes, or kelp.
- Heavyweight Construction: The complete unit (knife and scabbard) is intentionally weighted, often reaching around 3.5 pounds, to assist divers in maintaining negative buoyancy underwater.
- Materials:
- Handle: Usually made of ribbed maple or other hardwoods, designed for a secure grip.
- Scabbard (Sheath): A heavy, cylindrical solid brass or bronze scabbard.
- Pommel: A heavy brass pommel used for hammering or prying.
Identification & Markings
Most authentic Morse knives are clearly stamped on the side of the brass sheath. Common markings include:
- MFG’D BY MORSE DIVING EQUIP. CO. INC. BOSTON. MASS. U.S.A.
- Later models or commemorative editions may include a serial number or an image of a Morse diving helmet.
- Condition : Original patina on brass, not cleaned. Minor scratches on sheath consistent with age & use. Blade has been sharpened some , but no blade loss, see all photos.
NKCA Grading system
MINT: A factory fresh knife, absolutely original as it came from the manufacturer, not carried or sharpened, a perfect knife.
NEAR MINT: A new knife that has seen sometimes, show some slight carry or shop wear, blades snap perfectly, handles show no cracks.
EXCELLENT: Shows no more than 10% blade wear, handles are sound, no cracks, blades snap good.
VERY GOOD: About 25% blade wear, slight cracks in handles, may have one lazy blade, stamping clearly visible to the naked eye, no blades changed or repaired.
FAIR: 50% blade wear, blades lazy, cracks and chips in handles, handles replaced with same type, blades repaired, stampings faint but readable with a glass.
POOR: Blades very worn, handles bad or missing, blades have been replaced with the same type, reading of the stamp is almost impossible, even with a glass, good mostly only for parts.
