British, WW2 c1943–45, Fairbairn-Sykes 3rd Pattern Fighting Knife, Marked “3” (Wallsall Factory), Parkerised Blade, with Original Sheath - Marked “Y”

*British, WW2 c1943–45, Fairbairn-Sykes 3rd Pattern Fighting Knife, Marked “3” (Wallsall Factory), Parkerised Blade, with Original Sheath - Marked “Y”*

An original World War II British Fairbairn-Sykes 3rd Pattern Fighting Knife, complete with its correct leather scabbard. The knife features the characteristic ribbed copper-alloy grip, retaining traces of the factory-applied blackened finish, and is stamped “3” at the base, denoting manufacture at Wilkinson Sword’s Wallsall plant, one of the authorised wartime production sites.

The double-edged parkerised steel blade measures 16.1 cm (6.3 in) with an overall length of 28.5 cm (11.2 in). The blade remains true and full, showing typical light wear consistent with service use. The guard is the correct oval form, and the handle retains its concentric ribbing and period patina with slight copper showing through at high points.

The knife is housed in its wartime brown leather scabbard, complete with metal chape and twin retaining loops. The upper face of the leather is clearly stamped with the letter “Y” just above the riveted tabs — a mark associated with period inspection or sub-contract acceptance. Stitching remains sound, though the elastic retaining strap is broken but present.

Measurements: Blade length: 16.1 cm. Overall length: 28.5 cm

Historical Note:
The Fairbairn-Sykes Fighting Knife was designed in 1940 by Captain William E. Fairbairn and Captain Eric A. Sykes, drawing on their extensive experience with close-quarters combat in the Shanghai Municipal Police. Officially adopted in 1941, it became the iconic sidearm of the British Commandos, SAS, and SOE.

The 3rd Pattern, introduced in 1943, simplified the design of earlier patterns, adopting a machine-turned grip for rapid mass production while retaining the same lethal efficiency. Production was undertaken by Wilkinson Sword and its satellite plants, including the Wallsall factory — indicated by the “3” marking on this example. The weapon saw extensive use in Europe and the Far East, and its silhouette remains synonymous with British Special Forces.

The “Y” mark on the scabbard corresponds with documented acceptance or inspection stamps used by various wartime leather subcontractors supplying Wilkinson. Although the precise meaning of the “Y” remains debated, it is considered a genuine period mark consistent with original wartime manufacture and issue.

*Condition*
Blade retains a good proportion of its parkerised finish with light age staining and minor surface wear. Grip with honest patina, some copper bleed-through, and small areas of finish loss. Scabbard shows moderate surface wear and age toning; stitching intact throughout. Elastic retaining strap detached. Markings “3” (grip) and “Y” (scabbard) both clearly visible and well-struck. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.

RQMAFOXBFO_8167218396