Contractors who manufactured the M6 included Aerial Cutlery Co., Columbus Milpar and Mfg.

The most notable differences between the two are the diameter of the muzzle rings, the shape of the handle, and the locking mechanism.

Today, the M6 is mainly used for ceremonial purposes, particularly by the Army and Marine Corps, both of which still use the M14 rifle for exhibition drill.

The improved M8A1 scabbard manufactured later in WW II has the M1910 bent wire hook.

The scabbard throat flange is stamped "US M8" or "US M8A1" on the flat steel part along with manufacturer initials.