Commando knife, 2nd model, British (1940-2)

Title	Commando knife, 2nd model
Nationality	British
Period	1940-2

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This is the rarer version of the B2 pattern commando knife. These knives were named FS fighting knife after Fairbairn-Sykes, the joint inventors. This weapon was so feared by the Germans that Hitler ordered that any prisoner found carrying one was to be summarily executed.

The broad arrow indicates government issue and '56' is either an inspector's stamp or possibly a maker's reference. It has a nickel silver finish (quite unusual to find the first model of this pattern with this finish) as against plain blackened brass and blued steel cross piece of the later model. It has, however, the new model blade without the square shank, used on this and all subsequent commando knives to the present day. The scabbard is brown calf leather and the elasticated strap is somewhat worn with age and use, but is essentially intact.

There is a minor distortion to the point, possibly because it has been used to open a tin can or some such!

If you want to comment on this item—re quality, age, etc—please email me.

[Edged Weapons : Dirks : British : 20th Century]

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