FAIRBAIRN-SYKES STYLE BRITISH 2ND PATTERN FIGHTING KNIFE

FAIRBAIRN-SYKES STYLE BRITISH 2ND PATTERN FIGHTING KNIFE
Fine example of a double-edged stiletto-style fighting knife, 6.75 in. blade, 11.25 overall, with a non-magnetic vase-shaped checkered brass grip, an oval hand guard and no ricasso. Marked ‘B2' and ‘England' on top of the guard. Bluing about 75%. The knife is housed in a brown leather scabbard, no 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.