British, WW1, Mk I Bristol Flechette Dart

*British, WW1, Mk I Bristol Flechette Dart*

A rare example of a Mk I type flechette dart used during the First World War, intended to be dropped from aircraft over enemy troops. Measuring approximately 12.6 cm in length with a maximum width of 2.1 cm at the stabilising fins, these darts were an early form of air-dropped anti-personnel weaponry.

This example is of steel construction, retaining its distinctive teardrop-shaped head and sheet metal fins (tail assembly), which helped stabilise it during descent. Originally carried in large quantities aboard reconnaissance and bomber aircraft such as the Bristol F.2B Fighter, these darts were released en-masse to create psychological and physical disruption among enemy infantry. Most British and French WW1 flechettes were unmarked, and the Bristol variants are generally not stamped with maker marks. Instead, they were mass-produced to be cheap and disposable.

The surface shows uniform rust patina consistent with ground recovery or age storage, typical for original WW1 battlefield relics.

Historical context
Flechettes were introduced by the French early in WW1 and quickly adopted by British forces, including those using Bristol aircraft. Although their effectiveness was limited, they represent an important transitional phase in aerial warfare tactics before the widespread adoption of dedicated bombs and machine-gun strafing.

*Condition*
Good relic condition overall, with stable surface corrosion and intact fins. No structural cracks or repairs noted. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.

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