A Scarce Indian Produced Fairbairn Sykes Fighting Knife

A Scarce Indian manufactured Fairbairn Sykes Fighting Knife.

This example bearing the Broad Arrow /|I to the cross guard.

The hand ground blade now measuring just over 6.5 inches in length. The blade shows signs of repeated service sharpening, old staining and light rust. The blade tip shows signs of repointing and slight deformation, although  it retains a needle point. 

The cross guard has a similar patina to the blade, although the stamped markings are clearly visible. The knurled brass grip lacks the texture of its British made counterparts, retaining small amounts of its original blackened finish in the sheltered areass. traditional Coke bottle pommel. The pommel nut is unmolested and is the earlier example, not filled with lead solder.

Housed in its very distinctive steel mounted leather sheath, more akin to a bayonet scabbard with cut out throat to accept the diamond section blade. It retains its textured leather wrap and pommel stud to accept the special pattern leather frog issued with these rare knives. The mounts solid, with some old rust and corrosion.

A good used, carried example of this rare pattern issued to Indian Special Forces, and Chindit units. These knives were made in limited numbers, and saw prolonged service use, and are consequently very hard to find in any condition, and this particular knife is above average.

Strictly over 18's only. Photo ID will be required before this item can be dispatched.