USMC Raiders Stiletto (SOLD)
Created on February 18th 2021
Good USMC Raiders Stiletto & correct leather sheath
Genuine United States Marine Corps Raiders Stiletto based very closely on the Fairbairn-Sykes Commando Fighting Knife. The main difference being the Aluminium Zinc Alloy cast handle. Many examples of these knives as found with damaged cross guards and hilts as the Zinc Alloy commonly breaks down in time – this example is completely intact. It is also not uncommon to find that the etched design in the blade has worn away as it was very lightly applied in the first instance. The markings on this blade have completely disappeared which indicates the possibility of an active service life. Blood has a terrible effect on metals! Later reading has also indicated some knives arriving in the field with no etching from day one – these are often identified as Canadian versions, but they were blacked – this one has never been blacked – the jury is out, time plays its tricks and we must make up our own minds. If only these things could talk !
This knife is 12″ long overall. The diamond sectioned blade is 7″ long. The flat cross guard is exactly 2″ across. The knurled patterned alloy grip takes up the remaining 5″ of the length. No perceivable damage to any part of the blade apart from the point being a tiny bit “soft” which is not surprising as this was the weakest point of the design – in fact in Army regulations it was strictly forbidden to throw the knife. There have been no clumsy efforts at re-sharpening the blades edges and they have suffered no nicks along their length. Apart from the lack of etching the knife itself is in excellent order.
Good original brown leather sheath with the later riveted re-enforcement plate where the tip would be on both the back and the front of the sheath. It also has the ten staples along the top outer edge of the scabbard which protected the edge when replacing the knife after use. Fastener which pops close over the hilt is in position and in good condition. Standard US construction using brass rivets and a hole at the lowest point for a lanyard. Brass bent wire hook system in place at top. Good condition – no tares.
An excellent survivor of one of the most rare variants of the Fairbairn Sykes story in genuine used condition – ready for any specialist knife collection.
(SOLD)
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