New Made Item: This is a very high quality reproduction featuring 1050 steel and a tempered blade to 55 Rockwell hardness for usage. It was copied directly from an experimental prototype late WWII original example of a RAF Type D survival knife in the IMA collection. The original prototype was manufactured by Rodgers of Sheffield England.
The Type D Survival knife, developed in prototype form was officially introduced into service in early 1950’s. The knives were made by a number of manufacturers and issued to all branches of the British Military.
The blades of knives were marked with designations to identify which service they were issued to. Codes beginning 27C were issued to the RAF (see pages 101 & 102 of Flook’s book ‘British & Commonwealth Fighting Knives’).
This heavy-duty survival knife has a 7.25″ single edged oval shaped broad blade. It measures 12.5″ overall and has the correct plain wood grips contoured for grip. Two large locking screws secure the grips. The pommel end is holed for wrist cord (cord not present). The knife comes complete with leather sheath with single retaining strap and sprung stud fastener.
The knife will hold a very sharp edge but come unsharpened. Meaning you will need to sharpen this knife before use.