FAIRBAIRN-SYKES STYLE 3RD PATTERN FIGHTING KNIFE

FAIRBAIRN-SYKES STYLE 3RD PATTERN FIGHTING KNIFE
Fine, early example edged stiletto-style fighting knife, 6.75 in. blade, 11.25 overall, with a blackened, non-magnetic vase-shaped brass grip, an oval hand guard and no ricasso. Unmarked, bluing about 75%. Hallmarked ‘Sheffield England' on top of the cross guard. The knife is housed in a black leather scabbard with black leather belt loop. These knives were designed by William Fairbairn and Eric Sykes, instructors in close-combat fighting at the Commando Basic Training Centre in Scotland. The knife came to be most closely associated with the British Commandos, but was also used by British and Canadian Airborne troops, the SAS, the American OSS and Army Rangers, and some U.S. Marine units. It remains one of the most instantly recognizable fighting knife styles. Overall very good condition.