Description
This vintage WWII British Commando knife with scabbard remains in rare condition. Moreover, a 2nd pattern British commando knife preserved this well would make an important addition to any serious collection.
This 2nd pattern Fairbairn–Sykes knife measures 11 13/16″ overall, while the blade itself measures 6 7/8″. In addition, the guard bears the British broad arrow along with the letter “B.” The guard also carries the stamp “ENGLAND.” Likewise, the top of the scabbard also displays the “ENGLAND” stamp.
Most importantly, the scabbard still retains its original elastic keeper strap, which remains extremely difficult to find in this condition. Consequently, this feature greatly increases the knife’s collector appeal.
In addition, U.S. troops staging in England for the Normandy landings also purchased and carried these knives.
About the Fairbairn–Sykes Fighting Knife
The 2nd Pattern Fairbairn–Sykes fighting knife ranks among the most famous British commando daggers of World War II. Designers William Ewart Fairbairn and Eric Anthony Sykes created the knife specifically for silent close combat. As a result, it quickly became an iconic symbol of British special operations forces such as the British Commandos.
Basic Details
Designers: William Ewart Fairbairn and Eric Anthony Sykes
First issued: 1941
Used by: British Commandos and other Allied special forces
Blade length: about 6.5–7 inches (165–178 mm)
Blade style: double-edged dagger
Purpose: thrusting weapon for close-quarters combat
Identifying the 2nd Pattern
The Fairbairn–Sykes knife appeared in three main wartime patterns. However, the 2nd Pattern (1941–1943) combines features found in both the earlier and later versions, which makes it especially desirable among collectors today.
Condition
This vintage WWII British Commando knife remains in exceptionally rare condition. The blade retains approximately 99% of its original finish. Furthermore, the blade shows no sharpening and no corrosion whatsoever.
Likewise, the handle and guard remain nearly perfect, with no corrosion present.
Finally, the scabbard also remains in excellent condition. The keeper strap still shows strong elasticity, a feature that collectors rarely encounter on surviving examples.
This rare-condition British WWII 2nd pattern commando knife deserves a place in a premium military collection.
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