Posted: 1/31/2022 10:24:50 PM EDT
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There have been five main makes of M9s: Phrobis, Buck (subcontracted by Phrobis III during the original Army contract), LanCay, Ontario and Tri-Technologies. Starting in 1987, Phrobis subcontracted Buck, finishing up in 1989. It was around this time that Buck sold commercial M9s as well, which it did up to 1997. LanCay got its first contract in March 1992 (taking over production from Buck) for 30 (later 50) thousand knives (with General Cutlery as a subcontractor); in 1994, there was another contract issued for about 100,000 improved M9 models. In 1999, a contract for 25,000 knives was split between LanCay and Ontario (12,500 each). Ontario Knife Company also participated in later contracts, and is one of the current (as of 2005) contractors for producing them. These can be identified by the blades, which are marked "M-9 / ONTARIO / KNIFE CO / USA". In 2012, Tri-Technologies was awarded a contract for 40,000 M9s marked "M9/06MA8/USA" Consensus the better maker? |
I think I have one of each except for Buck. The top one is a Tri-Industries, was bought new in packaging.  I'm not sure but I think they all are made from parts that are interchangeable. I've seen a clear handle one on the web and thought was unique. But I think the Marine Bayonet is the better knife. |
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Quoted: Lol, Buck made M9 bayonets? I used a Buck knife as a boy scout. I'd most want one made by them to tear the enemy's fucking guts out.  Yes I have one. I got it for Christmas in 1989--still have the original box. Apparently they have some kind of collector value. |