RAF MK.II flying suit survival knife

RAF MK.II flying suit survival knife

Code: S26583

SOLD

Stores reference 22c/1996.  Manufactured by Joseph Rodgers of Sheffield.  Approximately 21cm in length.  Very scarce Mk.2 version of the aircrew emergency knife issued in the 1960s prior to its replacement by the far more common  MK.3 in the 1970s.  Flat profile gravity knife with a composite handle containing a spring lock mechanism activated by two levers on either side of the hilt.  This mechanism locks onto a stud on the sheath and so retains the knife.  The blade is of stainless steel, straight with a pointed end, and measures approximately 10cm.  The knife was worn in a metal scabbard/sheath, stores reference 22c/2202.  This in turn would be attached to a cloth patch, stitched upside-down on the flying coverall leg.  This enabled the knife to drop out on a lanyard should the wearer need to cut rigging lines of a parachute canopy in an emergency situation.  These knives were used by aircrew of all three services and also by the SAS.  Excellent used condition with metal scabbard.  The first we've had for a couple of years.  Stock code S26583.