British, WWII, Wilkinson ‘Type I’ Second Pattern Fairbairn–Sykes  Commando Dagger, Early Long "Masonic" Panel Variant, Complete with Elastic-Format Scabbard

*British, WWII, Wilkinson ‘Type I’ Second Pattern Fairbairn–Sykes  Commando Dagger, Early Long "Masonic" Panel Variant, Complete with Elastic-Format Scabbard*

An original early-production Second Pattern Fairbairn–Sykes fighting knife (Type I configuration) by Wilkinson Sword Co., London, retaining the scarce elongated Wilkinson cartouche blade panel exceeding 3 cm in length to one face and the correct “F-S FIGHTING KNIFE” etched panel to the reverse. The dagger displays the defining traits of the first phase of Second Pattern manufacture, including a deeply knurled solid brass hilt, straight oval guard, slender double-edged blade with pronounced medial ridge and acute needle point, and is complete with its correct early elastic-configuration leather scabbard with brass chape and period field-replacement retaining strap. A strong, cohesive and honest early wartime example.

The blade shows even age-related corrosion and spotting consistent with long-term storage. The elongated Wilkinson panel is now subdued by oxidation, though the outline and vestiges of the early long-pattern motif remain discernible. The opposing “F-S FIGHTING KNIFE” panel remains clearly legible, the etching displaying correct shallow wartime acid characteristics with no evidence of later enhancement or re-etching.

The hilt is of solid brass rather than plated finish, with sharply defined early knurling and correct straight oval guard. It has developed an even, undisturbed period patina with light verdigris at the guard junction. The pommel remains secure.

The scabbard is of the early elastic-retention type, retaining its reinforced backing panel and brass chape. The original ½" elastic is no longer present and has been replaced in service with a leather retaining strap. Stitching, construction and wear are consistent with original wartime manufacture. The leather body shows honest ageing and handling wear with no signs of modern restoration.

Approx. Measurements – Blade length: 17 cm. Overall length: 29 cm.

Historical Note:
The Fairbairn–Sykes fighting knife was designed in 1940 by Captains William E. Fairbairn and Eric A. Sykes for British Commandos and special operations forces. Wilkinson Sword Co. was one of the principal early manufacturers.

*Condition*
An honest and complete early example. The blade retains its original form with visible age-related spotting and oxidation consistent with wartime steel. The elongated Wilkinson cartouche panel is now largely subdued by surface wear, though its outline remains discernible. The opposing “F-S FIGHTING KNIFE” panel remains visible despite corrosion and age patination. There is no evidence of modern re-etching, polishing, or later enhancement. The hilt remains tight with well-defined knurling and even period patina. The scabbard leather is supple but aged, retaining its brass chape and showing a period replacement retaining strap in place of the original elastic, with expected wear to stitching and fittings. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.

A cohesive early Wilkinson Second Pattern Fairbairn–Sykes dagger with scarce long cartouche blade panel and correct early elastic-format scabbard. An increasingly difficult configuration to source in untouched condition and of strong collector interest.

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