RAF Mk.III survival knife

RAF Mk.III survival knife

Code: S25059

SOLD

Stores reference 22c/1278106.  Manufactured by Joseph Rodgers of Sheffield.  Approximately 21cm in length.   Standard aircrew issue until replaced by the unpopular 'J' cutter tool.  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, curved and measures approximately 10cm.  The knife was worn in a metal scabbard/sheath, stores reference 22c/4466607, 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 also used by the SAS.  The blade of this example is rather blunt but otherwise in very good used condition overall.  Both blade and scabbard are clearly marked with reference numbers.  Stock code S25059.