2148 - Early-model M2 Walden paratrooper knife. Metal fittings. Synthetic scales designed to resemble bone. The automatic opening button is functional, as is the safety button; the spring is weak, so you need to assist it to deploy the blade. Beautiful, well-worn blade—sharp but intact. Manufactured by Schrade Walden, NY. Note some wear and patina on the item. Condition II. This folding pocket knife with a locking mechanism was carried in a pocket located on the upper chest of the M1942 jump jacket. This location allowed the paratrooper to grab it quickly in an emergency. It was used to cut parachute lines, the harness, or equipment straps when a paratrooper became entangled in a tree after landing. The M2 Pocket Knife was officially adopted by U.S. airborne troops on November 8, 1940. U.S. M2 Schrade Walden Paratrooper Knife. Metal fittings. Synthetic grip scales imitating bone. The automatic opening button is functional, as is the safety lock. The spring is weak, and the blade requires assistance to open fully. Well-preserved but worn blade, sharpened and complete. Manufactured by Schrade Walden, NY. Some wear and age-related patina. Condition II. This automatic-opening pocket knife was carried in a specially designed pocket on the upper chest of the M1942 jump jacket, allowing the paratrooper to access it quickly in an emergency. It was intended for cutting parachute suspension lines, harnesses, or equipment straps if a paratrooper became suspended in a tree after landing. The M2 Pocket Knife was officially adopted by U.S. airborne troops on November 8, 1940.