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RAF emergency parachute release knife

Code: DRF-NIV

By Rodgers of Sheffield. Wooden handled curve bladed knife. Overall length approximately 28cm (blade 14cm).  The cutting edge is to the top with a blunt lower edge and originally with a rounded end.  This example has been sharpened to a point.  Contained within a leather scabbard.  These were issued to parachute riggers but were reputedly carried and used by aircrews as a quick method of harness removal in emergency situations should the quick release box fail.  The blade is marked with the manufacturer's details along with Air Ministry, crown and 1939 date code.   The scabbard show wear and the area that was reference marked has been scratched out, presumably to de-militarise it.  Quite hard to find. An example from our own collection. Stock code DRF-NIV.