Fairbairn-Sykes Fighting Knife

As noted, the Fairbairn-Sykes fighting knife is not an original surplus item – it is a reproduction, and an excellent one at that. As such, it is in perfect condition, ready for displaying as a collectible or adding to your World War II reenactment gear.

Like many military surplus and reproduction items, the Fairbairn-Sykes fighting knife, sometimes known as the Fairbairn-Sykes commando knife, has quite an interesting history. It is a double-edged dagger that was designed specifically for hand-to-hand combat. The name “Fairbairn-Sykes” derives from the two men responsible for its development – William Ewart Fairbairn and Eric Anthony Sykes, both of whom were members of the Shanghai Municipal Police in China between the world wars. It was there that they conceptualized what would eventually become the Fairbairn-Sykes fighting knife, which would play a big role in British close quarters combat during WWII.

The Fairbairn-Sykes fighting knife was originally designed and produced in 1941, with only about 2 million original knives produced by the Wilkinson Sword Company. They became famous after seeing use with the British Commandos and the Special Air Service (SAS). Easily recognized by their long, tapered blade and foil-like handle, the fighting knife can easily penetrate the ribcage and inflict damage to vital organs.  Additionally, the handle provides for a number of precise grips normally associated with knife fighting.

Through the years, the Fairbairn-Sykes fighting knife found use in a number of different countries with several units. Additionally, it spawned several copies and served as inspiration for several other fighting knives, including the United States Military’s Office of Strategic Services’ (OSS) dagger and the United States Marine Corps’ KA-BAR. Interestingly enough, the Fairbairn-Sykes fighting knife itself was produced with a number of different variants, though those details are too lengthy to address here. Typically, the differences were in blade length, crossguard shape and grip pattern. I will, of course, discuss the specifications on the knife advertised here.

Keepshooting.com’s Fairbairn-Sykes fighting knife features a blade constructed entirely from 440 stainless steel and includes a black finish. It measures 6.5 inches in length and is about one inch at its widest point, which tapers down to a razor-sharp point and is capable of penetrating both layered clothing and skin. The knife also has an oval-shaped crossguard and a foil-like handle that allows the wielder to take several different fighting grips. There are also three sections of crosshatched knurling designed to provide a secure grip. The knife has an excellent weight distribution which provides great balance. It is a joy to hold.

Though the Fairbairn-Sykes fighting knife is renowned for its use in hand-to-hand combat, it is typically sought out for its collectability and does pretty well for itself on the surplus market. Those interested in WWII reenactments will surely be drawn to this knife, but you may consider it for any of the following:

- Reenactments

- Collections

- Display piece

- Movie production

- Stage and theater production

- Much more…

At only $24.95, the Fairbairn-Sykes fighting knife makes a great gift idea for the military enthusiast in your life.

Note: This item is being sold to you as a collectible. Please check your local laws for any regulations that prohibit the ownership of a knife of this design. To purchase this knife, you must be at least 18 years old. An adult signature may be required when delivery is made.