United Kingdom. A Fairbairn-Sykes Fighting Knife, Second Pattern, by Wilkinson Sword

A very well-preserved second pattern Fairbairn-Sykes fighting knife, measuring 31.5 cm in total length when inserted into the scabbard. It features a 17 cm-long, nickel-plated, magnetic steel blade which remains sharp throughout the edges and tip. The obverse bears an acid-etched inscription of “THE F-S FIGHTING KNIFE” adjacent to the crossguard, while the reverse is appropriately marked with the logo of Wilkinson Sword, London. The crossguard itself is constructed of a straight, toned, magnetic metal oval plate. A single piece of toned brass composes the handle grip, showing classic second pattern cross-hatching/diamond knurling throughout the grip, with the blade’s tang extending into the handle’s hollow interior. It culminates in a rounded pommel nut. The knife is accompanied by its original scabbard, constructed of a brown leather shaft capped with a toned brass tip. A brown leather panel affixed to the throat retains an elasticized strap to hold the knife in position during storage, while dual slits allow the wearer’s belt to slip through the panel for suspension. Some issues consistent with age and wear are evident, and include running marks and sporadic loss of nickel plating to the blade, verdigris to the handle, some material fatigue to the scabbard leather, and age-related fragility to the elasticized strap. This second pattern knife remains in a better than very fine condition.