United Kingdom. A Third Pattern Fairbairn Sykes Fighting Knife, by William Rodgers

A very well-preserved third pattern Fairbairn Sykes fighting knife, measuring 315 mm in total length when inserted into the scabbard. It features a tapering 165 mm-long magnetic steel blade with a dark patina, and with a sharpened tip and edges. The blade sits firmly within a magnetic metal upper crossguard, maker marked on the top “WILLIAM RODGERS, SHEFFIELD, ENGLAND”. The handle grip is composed of a single piece of ribbed and patinated brass, completing in a rounded pommel. The latter is marked with a number “1”. It includes its period original scabbard, constructed of a brown leather shaft with a non-magnetic metal tip fixture. The reverse of the strap features two integral loops, and transitions into a strap with two slits for the insertion of a belt, as well as a cotton strap to hold the knife in place. Issues consistent with age and use are evident, and include some tarnishing of the metal features and material fatigue of the leather elements. The knife is in an overall near extremely fine condition.