*British, Post WW2, Siebe Gorman Diver’s Knife, AP.6260, Non-Magnetic, Serrated Edge, with Nato-marked scabbard*
A post–Second World War period Siebe Gorman & Co. Ltd. diver’s knife, fitted with a 19.5 cm double-edged blade, one side serrated, and marked AP.6260, NON-MAGNETIC (AP Admiralty Pattern) to both faces near the hilt. The contoured black grip is fitted over a non-magnetic brass hilt with a turned pommel nut. Complete with original non-magnetic brass push-fit scabbard, stamped NON-MAGNETIC with NATO stock reference number 0433-431-7339. Overall length 33.3 cm.
Historical Note This pattern of non-magnetic diver’s knife was produced by Siebe Gorman & Co. Ltd., the leading British manufacturer of diving apparatus. The AP.6260 marking corresponds to Admiralty Pattern 6260, a designation applied to non-magnetic knives issued for Royal Navy and clearance divers. Non-magnetic construction, typically of phosphor bronze and tinned brass, avoided interference with magnetic mines and navigational instruments. The NATO stock number format seen on the scabbard (0433-431-7339) suggests this example remained in service after the introduction of NATO codification in the early 1950s, placing its production or reissue around the late 1940s–1950s.
*Condition* Blade retains a clean edge with some light service wear and minor surface marks consistent with use. Serrations remain well-defined. Brass guard and pommel with natural patina. Black grip retains full form with minor handling wear. Scabbard with heavy verdigris and surface corrosion to exterior, retaining legible markings. Push-fit function remains intact.
