UK "Fat boy" Fairbairn-Sykes 2nd Pattern Knife

A variation of the 2nd Pattern knife, known as the 'Fat Man' due to its larger handle, was produced in extremely small quantities and is rarely encountered. While early conjecture attributed these knives to US manufacturer Landers, Frary & Clark, it is now believed that they were produced by the English firm, J. Clarke & Son.

This knife is in very good condition and is the rare original UK made "Fat Boy". As with all this pattern of F-S knife, the only marking is the proof mark on the handle. On this particular knife, a broad arrow above the number 6, shown in the pictures. The blade is hand ground, and maintains much of its original blueing. The grip is missing much of its original paint

The Fairbairn-Sykes Fighting Knife was designed by Captains W.E. Fairbairn and E.A. Sykes at the Commando Special Training Centre, located in the Scottish Highlands at Achnacarry. Both former members of the Shanghai Police Force, Fairbairn and Sykes had returned to England at the beginning of the Second World War, where they were commissioned as Captains to instruct British Commandos in knife fighting, unarmed combat, and self defence. The knife was adopted by the British Army and soon proved extremely popular with British special forces.