British, WW2, Southern & Richardson Ribbed "Invasion Fighting Knife" with Leather Sheath

*British, WW2, Southern & Richardson Ribbed "Invasion Fighting Knife" with Leather Sheath*

A Southern & Richardson WWII commando stiletto “pig sticker” fighting knife, often referred to by collectors as “the Invasion Knife” for its popularity among American GIs stationed in England prior to D-Day. Produced in Sheffield as a private-purchase alternative to the Fairbairn–Sykes Commando dagger, these knives were eagerly bought by U.S. servicemen preparing for the Normandy landings, earning them a reputation as both a practical close-combat weapon and an iconic souvenir of the invasion build-up.

This example measures 28.3 cm overall with a 16.8 cm double-edged spear-point blade, etched with the Southern & Richardson nest trademark and maker’s mark “SOUTHERN & RICHARDSON, SHEFFIELD, ENGLAND.” The ricasso is cleanly ground, and the oval guard is stamped “307.” The hilt features the distinctive ribbed alloy grip, deeply knurled for secure handling, terminating in a rounded pommel with the tang peened over.

Accompanied by its original leather scabbard, fitted with brass chape and belt loops. The leather has now heavily flaked and perished but retains its overall form and fittings.

Historical Note
During the Second World War, Sheffield cutlers such as Southern & Richardson produced a range of private-purchase fighting knives that echoed the official Fairbairn–Sykes Commando dagger. Unlike issue weapons, these were sold through outfitters, PX stores, and directly to servicemen, making them especially popular with U.S. GIs based in Britain in 1943–44. Anticipating the coming invasion, many GIs purchased these knives both as effective fighting tools and as a symbolic part of their kit, giving rise to the nickname “Invasion Knife.”

Southern & Richardson were a Sheffield, England based cutlery producer, which was established in 1847. In 1851 they moved to the “Weldon Works, Bird’s Nest” and remained there until the 1920’s, when they were absorbed by the firm of Needham, Veall & Tyzack, another Sheffield based cutler who had established the “Eye Witness’ Works in 1875. NV&T continued to produce blades under both the Southern & Richardson brand and their own Eye Witness brand until they went out of business in 1975.

*Condition*
Blade with age toning, light surface scratches, and mottling consistent with period use. Etched maker’s panel remains clear and legible. Guard secure, stamped “307.” Ribbed alloy grip retains strong definition with dark patina, light handling wear. Tang peened over at pommel, secure. Leather scabbard present with surface flaking, shrinkage, and perished belt loop; brass chape with worn plating and small dents. Overall a solid example of a desirable Sheffield fighting knife, with honest wartime character. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.

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