Intrenching Equipment
Click on the images for a larger image.
M1910 Bolo, dated 1912
This is the M1910 bolo which had a scabbard catch as the M1905 bayonet did. The Bolo was a large heavy knife, carried by one man in an infantry squad. It was used to clear heavy brush, much like a machete. GWS Collection
M1917 Bolo dated 1918
The M1917 Bolo was the same tool as the M1910 but without the scabbard catch. However many 1910 bolo scabbards were still in service with the catch after the M1917 bolo was fielded. To prevent the logistical issue of modifying 1910 scabbards the 1917 bolos had a small hole on the hand guard. This allowed the 1917 bolos to be used with the 1910 scabbards. Carl Panak Collection
M1917 Bolo with metal scabbard
M1917 Bolo with later pressed metal scabbard. GWS Collection
M1910 Pick Mattock
For serious digging, several soldiers in a sqaud would carry a pick mattock such as this one. The pick head is stamped U.S. and is removeable from the wooden handle. Both the pick head and the handle were carried in the canvas carrier shown here. Carl Panak Collection
Hell's Half Acre: A Vietnam War Webpage
Doughboys Main Page
Uniforms
Field Gear
Personal Items