WW2 Fairbairn Sykes Commando Dagger by J Nowill of Sheffield - Reviewed!

Review & background of the Fairbairn Sykes commando dagger by J Nowill & Sons of Sheffield, from:
www.thesheffieldcutleryshop.c...
First part of the video is background, specific review starts at 08.50: • WW2 Fairbairn Sykes Co...
3 extra videos each month on Patreon, which hugely helps support this channel:
/ scholagladiatoria
Facebook & Twitter updates, info and fun:
/ historicalfencing
/ scholagladiato1
Schola Gladiatoria HEMA - sword fighting classes in the UK:
www.swordfightinglondon.com
Matt Easton's website & Pinterest:
www.matt-easton.co.uk/
www.pinterest.co.uk/matt_east...
Easton Antique Arms:
www.antique-swords.co.uk/

[@Entiox]

About 20 years ago, when I was a manager at a cutlery shop, I had a customer come in wearing a World War II veteran hat. He looked around and saw a Ka-Bar in one of the cases and said "Oh the Ka-Bar. Back during the war that was the best knife for opening your rations and cutting ropes." Then he looked over at a Sykes-Fairbairn replica and said, "But that Sykes-Fairbairn there, that was the best knife for... Social work."

[@TheTrueNorth11]

Sounds like you made that up. Why do dumb people like you always make shit up in the comments lol. Give your head a shake.

[@Entiox]

@@TheTrueNorth11 why does it sound like I made it up? I worked for that knife chain for over 10 years, and given that the store I managed for a lot of that time was only a few miles from Arlington Cemetery we had veterans from plenty of wars come in on a regular basis and tell us stories about their time in the military.

[@jackrice2770]

@@Entiox That's a great story and I don't doubt it for a second.

[@karllambert2350]

I'm so stealing that euphemism. My uncles were ww2 and Korea vets . They always used words "nicely for ugly things "

[@christopherreed4723]

Rather like referring to someone as being "good with their hands".

[@notwocdivad]

My late Father in Law was a Royal Marine Commando. We still have his FS dagger upstairs. His is about half an inch shorter as he snapped the tip off during an excercise, it was re sharpened by the armourer who said the point wasn't as pointy but " It will still go in just push a little harder" Nice chap!!

[@ludwigderzanker9767]

Nice times.

[@Atomictrooper]

My fiancée's great grandfather was a quarter master sergeant in the Canadian 3rd Division. He landed on Juno beach and fought his way through Normandy and Holland, he always carried a FS dagger the whole way through. Very nearly had to use it when he accidently ended up behind enemy lines while on a rum run. We're very happy to still have the dagger in our possession!

[@user-cs3hi8zp7p]

That's a Family Treasure..congrats!

[@djtucker7511]

What unit? 3rd Div... epic🙌

[@johnmassey2309]

I agree got one, dull as a hammer. Disappointing.

[@chrisbaxter3597]

@@johnmassey2309 it was for stabbing not cutting cheese

[@johnmassey2309]

@@chrisbaxter3597 so is an ice pick. I want weapons that cut and stab.

[@artrunningbear3599]

In 1973 U.S. Special Forces SOG team were sharing some work together, asked if we would like to take their OPS and we were in. After the Hellish training we were awarded the Fairbairn Commando in Ceremony. I brought and still use Tetley Tea from the Brits, it was a funny way I got used to this, I was boiling the tea in my helmet and they came over kicked my tea over and said You're killing the tea, comon yank we'll show you how to make tea which I still do today. Hats off to you guys with the tiny cups.

[@stevent8314]

What is the way to make a proper cup of tea? We all have to know.

[@dzonbrodi514]

​@@stevent8314 nobody else is answering so I'll tell you, you boil the water first then add it to the tea. Water should be freshly boiled but not still boiling temperature or it scorches the tea. Steep the tea to taste. Everything else is subject to opinion.

[@j.murphy4884]

Yup, putting most tea in boiling water over extracts it and makes it bitter.

[@juanj.robles207]

During the Vietnam War, GERBER MK II combat knives were first sold with an angled blade. I used an F/S in Nam myself and still own it.

[@mcdoctorglock]

God bless you, sir. My uncle taught me when I was a kid, how to use his kit from Vietnam, and it also included the F/S knife. I never did like the original sheath design, and only recently made one out of Kydex that I'm happy with for my kit. There is just something incredibly aesthetically pleasing abut the F/S profile.

[@hoilst]

They were angled away from the grip, not twisted, by 5 degrees. They stopped doing it - it was deliberate - when everyone sent the knives back as defective...

[@38dragoon38]

What happened if you were left-handed?

[@justinriley8651]

what did you use it for?

[@hamishjames908]

@@38dragoon38 im a lefty, they still work, you just wear it on the left. they are worth about $3500 us tho

[@josephangiulo8601]

The surface on the grip is called "knurling," rather than checkering (err, chequering for you folks). As I understand it, checkering is applied by hand with a v-profile cutting tool. Knurling is done with special tools on a lathe; the exact process is rather mystifying, but the results can be lovely. It's a classic modern industrial feature of the mid-twentieth century.

[@daveh7720]

Knurling presses the checker pattern into the metal (or other deformable material), creating not just grooves but also ridges along the edges of the grooves. It's more like plowing than cutting in that no material is removed, just pushed aside. It makes the grippy texture more grippy.

[@Zraknul]

If you've used good quality weight lifting bars, that's what they have for grip. Olympic and power lifting bars use it because it is excellent for hundreds of lbs/kgs worth of weight, without particularly damaging your hands.

[@heybabycometobutthead]

​​@@daveh7720 It's called cold forming, I've never heard anyone call it plowing before. Edit, if that was made in a modern CNC machine shop, it's almost certainly cut knurled.

[@notwocdivad]

Usually called chequering when applied to rifle and shotgun woodwork and knurling when on metal so I was informed

[@DonMeaker]

Knurling is pressed into the handle.

[@turbogerbil2935]

The blunt edge is probably because its an attempt to replicate an authentic "as issued" knife. I acquired a new MoD FS through the system whilst serving; it. too, is blunt. The forces have usually differentiated between "fighting" blades (white arms) and "working" blades - machetes, goloks, survival knives, etc. The former are issued blunt in peacetime, the latter sharpened. Fighting blades (swords, bayonets) are/were issued blunt, and were supposed to be sharpened by GOC order, usually in the preparation for combat. Such formal orders to sharpen bayonets were given on Op Corporate in 82 and Op Telic in 03 (and it certainly focussed your mind when you receive that order). QMs used to hold grindstones specifically issued for operational mobilisation.

[@Yarkoonian]

op corperate?

[@johnnunn8688]

@@Yarkoonian, you could Google it? I will tell you, though. The operation to retake the Falkland Islands.

[@Yarkoonian]

@@johnnunn8688 was a while ago, but I'm fairly sure I did, but did not find an answer. Thanks!

[@jankopransky2551]

FS dagger is anually handed out to the best absolovent of Czech Army Comando course (basicaly a US ranger tabs equivalent). Name of the course and the dagger are both direct links to WW2 Brittain, where czech soldiers were trained as comandos, and than droped back home to fight the nazis. The ceremony is held in a crypt where those brave men who assasinated Reinhard Heydrich made their last stand. It is a great honor to recieve this dagger.

[@monroekelly9064]

Nice anecdote. But there is no US Army Ranger tab equivalent. You are either a Ranger or you’re not! RLTW

[@jankopransky2551]

@@monroekelly9064 Fair enough. The guy who created Comando course went thru US army ranger school, and the principle of the course is the same.

[@patrickmunneke8348]

They weren't brave. They got alot of there people killed.

[@mrdarren1045]

Cool story. Nice to see that those men are still remembered in such a way. To give their lives to rid the world of such an evil arrogant man should never be forgotten. Respect from GB.

[@carlbescoby7681]

I did Cambrian patrol against a team of rangers in north wales. They quit after two days as it was too cold and wet. Stick with your association with the commandos (I wasn’t one so not biased) and the story of the crypt where it is presented is amazing. I never new that, but know the story of the underground fight that ended up there. Per Ardua.

[@richardlawrence3245]

I have my Grandfather's original 3rd pattern he used during WW2. The blade is set at a slight angle to the guard just as you describe.

[@joakimblomqvist7229]

The F-Sykes is an instrument of precision, the balance point makes it easy to control the point very precisely. But it also slices cured sausage 😊, if it's not too cured. It can pick up a green pea from a plate as well as puncture something that needs to be punctured. It's bloomin' fabulous! And pretty!❤

[@williamarthur4801]

About time you did a video on this iconic piece of kit.

[@daffybeauashblue]

Hi Matt, 50 years ago I worked at E Fairclough and sons, we sold antique arms swords armour, katana etc, when arms came up at auction, it would be normally bidding against the Tower of London or the Wallis and Wallis collection, in Conduit Street, just off Regent Street, London. We had in our basement 3 boxes of FS daggers, the owners son purchased a 50 Guinea sword at a country auction, and when he collected it the 3 boxes (suitcase size) boxes came with it. We would give one away to any good customer that wanted one. One of our Customers was Charlton Heston, he didn’t want one !

[@frankholliday7632]

This Dagger is a Legend. Today our Special Forces in Germany uses nearly from the later Company Applegate Fairbaim such kind of Daggers in Form of heavier Replicas.

[@ericvanvlandren8987]

Great to learn about the FS dagger. Thanks Matt!

[@gregwarner3753]

Carried one in 'Nam. Never had to use it. Bowie variants are made to do lots of things. This dagger is meant for quiet killing. If you want to open tin cans get tin can opener. Works better.

[@andrewknight1446]

It's nice to stumble across this video I have a World War II Fairbairn Sykes dagger one of my great uncles brought back from Europe, very nice little dagger. It is also a pattern 2 your with brass hilt.

[@stephengarrett8076]

Thank you for this review. I was given a pattern 2 from an ex soldier when I was 12 I'm now 56 he told me the tip was clipped as was known to snap off after a lot of use so this was pre delt with by grindin the tip giving you the length you mentioned, also the blade comes blunt on the edge so as not to bite into webbing if it makes contact and the slight twist gives you a natural twist inside whatever you put it in if you only make one stab. Please make some more reviews on this subject.

[@CommanderTycho]

I have the third pattern and I quite like it. Very pointy and actually sharp enough to use. Probably going to get a second pattern one in the future.

[@daniel-lee888]

I picked off the black paint on the pommel too - and yes I blued it afterwards. My blade alignment with the guard is good, but it was also blunt as a butter knife which is easily fixed. A great piece for the collection and worth it. My sheath is not as large as yours, so looks like QC is a little inconsistent.

[@darrenvanderwilt1258]

I can’t wait to follow along on this series. Even though the U.S. military, generally, used a multi purpose knife, U.S. Marine Raiders, and the First Special Service Force (“Devils Brigade”) used a modified Fairbairn Sykes dagger. I’ve seen copies of the latter for sale in Alaska and Canada.

[@G1llmanBlacklg00n]

That would be the Case V-42, which was based on the FS dagger. The reproductions range in price and quality with the Case models being the most expensive.

[@davidtucker7219]

Quite right. The V-42 knife (issued to "The Devil's Brigade" is for all intents copied from the Sykes Fairborn knife with one slight change... There is a indentation just over the hilt on the blade itself so that the user can place his thumb into the indentation. The V42 knife was made in the US by Case. My Grandfather served with "The Devil's Brigade"...While he never really talked much about it he did show me a few of the hand to hand combat moves so I could protect myself. After he passed on in 1996....We came across his old WW2 footlocker.....Among other things...His "Force knife" was there. RIP Grandpa Al.

[@johnnunn8688]

@@davidtucker7219, also the blade facets are hollow ground, whereas the original blade is a flat diamond shape.

[@davidtucker7219]

@@johnnunn8688 Thank you...I wasn't sure about that. Again, thank you for your help.

[@Hilljack69]

I'm lucky enuff to own 2 of these knives Both original Case run blades Picked one up at a estate sale first run Matte finish in the brown box it was issued in paid dearly for it The other is a Case second run it has the same finish as the F.S. and it's the only one iv seen with the blued factory finish Truly deadly blades and wouldn't want to be on the social end of either one

[@stevenmitchell6347]

When I went through training in the 70s, we weren't concerned about the elastic as using these was intended to be planned and deliberate, so it was in hand well before "contact" with the target. We tended toward the neural foramin at the base of the skull or the brachial artery behind the clavicle. Firm, steady, and deliberate pressure over a quick "stab" was preferred as it protected the tip from breaking while allowing one to "feel" proper execution of technique. Generally "cleaner" than a carotid cut, too. There's a good reason this was labeled "wet work". Nice presentation. I always enjoy the history of the weapons you present. Thank you!

[@andreweden9405]

F YESSS! Congratulations on the new purchase! It looks like it has a nice, crisp midrib. Btw, it would be so awesome if you could get your hands on a recently made Cold Steel 1796 British LCS repro, and review it! Hopefully, you could get a sharp one that you're able to cut with!

[@robertdeen8741]

I'll try and keep this short. When I was a young lad I had and older lady friend. She was born in Shang Hi in 1937. Her father served with Fairbairn on the Shang Hi police force. One of my S/F knives was built by Knowles and Sons of Sheffield. Est 1700. They've been making knives for over 300 years! Ian Flemming was taught hand to hand combat by Fairbairn at Camp X in WW2. Makes one wonder. Ian at Forgotten Weapons did a program on Fairbairn on his channel. Well worth watching if you're at all interested in the legend.

[@theplayer2286]

Ian Flemming was known to possesses the F-S except in smaller version. I have seen one of these for sale, so can confirm that they do exist. Flemming was also (at 'Camp X') in at the beginning of the formation of the OSS, later to become the CIA.

[@connorperrett9559]

An older lady friend, huh?

[@100dfrost]

Matt, just something I started thinking about watching this video. That unpleasant gentleman in Panama years back that stuck one of these into me lost it to me when the young Infantry fellows relieved me of my distress. I believe it was a first pattern. Very soon thereafter I both received a very minor gsw, and because of several experiences I won't go into, I felt I wanted to get rid of it. I gave it to one of the young gentleman that had come to my aid a couple of days before. He was almost immediately wounded, and air lifted out. In just a matter of days 3 owners of this knife had come into bad experiences. It was cheaply acquired in terms of price, but also very expensive in terms of ownership. I believe now that it was a bad luck piece, and gladly I never saw it again. I have never wished to get one of these knives in the many years since those events. Good video, as always, thanks and be careful.

[@philhughes3882]

Remember those old Peter Cushing Hammer Horror films? I read your rather splendid story in a Peter Cushing voice, - as he’s about to introduce The Blade of Death (or Fear or Vengeance etc)

[@allancrotch2953]

My F/S a Joseph Rodgers mk 3 from my time in the Guards circa 1972 soon lost the tautness with use.Great revue as always sir.

[@57WillysCJ]

If you glue some leather inside the top of the scabard, it will tighten it up and if the flesh side is out it will also grip the blade a bit. The Applegate - Fairbairn Combat II was still being refined into the 1980s I believe.

[@ycplum7062]

For all intents and purposes, it is an assassin's blade. It is designed for a quick kill. Blade goes in, and it is amazing well suited for that, and probably deals cutting damage when withdrawn.

[@johanmetreus1268]

It's meant to for instance be inserted into the side of the neck, then violently ripped out, taking out the arteries and throat in one go with the edge. Nasty little thing.

[@glandhound]

When used as intended, the damage done when withdrawn isn't going to make a difference.

[@johanmetreus1268]

@@glandhound On the contrary, making a lot of damage on the way out is exactly how it is intended to be used: sliding in, and cutting itself free out.

[@pcoueffin]

@@glandhound Sgt Stan Scott gives the best explanation of why the cutting edge works beautifully here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/q3WqeX6vd5iHlbc

[@ardshielcomplex8917]

The practise was and remains, the blade is twisted " when the blade goes in". 70 year old retired veteran here.

[@nickbower4103]

Got one myself, from J Knowill and sons, but went for the blackened blade. I was involved in martial arts for years and in my opinion, an excellent knife, feels great in the hand and , as said, made for a specific type of use, attacking vital points. The only thing that let it down for me was the quality of the sheaf, seemed quite cheaply made.

[@raymondlengvarsky618]

I prefer the Gerber MK 1, It's slightly shorter and easier to conceal and it's two edges are easy to sharpen, wicked sharp and holds it's edges well, pls the small ricasso make it easy to control the blade, and the 5 degree can't to the blade makes it easy and effective for it's intended use.

[@ardshielcomplex8917]

They weren't intended to be hung from a belt, but sewn on the two tabs provided on the sheath inside a trouser Map pocket or Denison Para / Commando Smock ( and later derivatives). The sheath was designed to be an open elongated bag type receiver for the blade rather than the conventional flat pressed scabbard. That way it could be drawn and returned with little trouble, and the elastic "keeper" holding the top of the pommel could be used with the minimal "fiddle" both as a restraint and to ease withdrawal. Everything was designed for max practicality, but the Fairbairn Sykes Dagger required specialist training for its surgical application. Only fools wave a knife around, a trained Para or Commando has the job done before his target /opponent knows WTF happened.

[@calebkempf1225]

I would definitely love to see more in depth videos about the Fairbairn Sykes dagger and its use, as well as first hand accounts.

[@notwocdivad]

Look for Sergeant Stan Scott No3 commando on youtube he tells of his wartime exploits and how to use the dagger!

[@brendantuck8734]

Ive got my grandfathers Fairbairne knife from his time in Africa, a numbered railroad spike from the Burma Railway and some other neat stuff! One of my favorites is My grandfather had taken a photo of another combatant about 15-20' away half falling but still standing, headless from artillery strike or something. Wish I knew my grandfather better, I remember him as a hard man!

[@jamietaylor5570]

11:45 Small correction - the Broad Arrow mark isn't just for military issued items, but is/was also used for other government uses such as Ordnance Survey markers.

[@loupanella9632]

Very informative video! I have long been fascinated with FS but never knew there were 3 patterns. There is something iconic about that piece of sharpen steel!!

[@c0l57v49]

There’s a fourth pattern available now (only to serving at the moment) looks very nice too

[@loupanella9632]

@@c0l57v49 no way !! Got to check it out

[@louiswarmoth7354]

My original, acquired in the late 60’s, was dull edged, very sharp pointed, with a well fitted scabbard with a snapped leather keeper and a blacked brass/bronze handle and ID stamped guard. I traded it even for a nice M-1 carbine which could be purchased at that time for around $75. Incidentally we used to buy loose .30 cal. surplus ammo for $.02(cents) a round back then. Wish I had the knife back.

[@mtgAzim]

Can't wait to see more of this one! Especially the historical accounts. Pick a long one, or more than one. That way we can settle in for some Matt Easton story time, and we can learn about terrible things our grandparents did to each other. ^_^

[@notwocdivad]

Go and watch a video featuring Trooper Stan Scott, RM He tells the story of some of his war and how to use the FS dagger

[@caelanfox3448]

The edge alignment theory reminds me of the recent video on Tod’s Workshop where he and Toby Capwell are looking at a rondel dagger with a similar offset between the blade and grip

[@scholagladiatoria]

You will see me testing that very dagger in the next part of that series on Tod's channel LOL

[@jimf3932]

Great vid of a great blade. Owing to war time demands and strains it's understandable that there are variations from the original spec on the blade length. Just found your channel and hope to see a review of John Ek's fighting knives as well. I own a No. 3 produced by the last private company, owned by Bob Burlein of Richmond, Virginia, the author of the book on Commando knives. Was fortunate enough to acquire my Ek in 2005, a handful of years prior to Ek being acquired by Ka-Bar.

[@buffewo6386]

I seem to remember this knife being designated "Knife, SK" in the WW2 doccuments. SK standing for Silent Killing. It is most certainly not a utility knife. It is designed solely for the ending of human life in a quick, and quiet, fashion.

[@davidhawley3337]

In my turbulent younger days I used these a lot. I think all mine were Type Threes. Broke some, lost some. They're great for stabbing, but not for much else. They mostly came with blunt edges, and they were mighty hard to sharpen.

[@fraserihle4847]

Sure you did little guy. I bet you were a real hardcore special forces killer

[@Den34689]

I look forward to your reviews! I feel you always give an honest opinion! Thank you.

[@YawaraMarco]

the best stiletto ever made ... it was designed to kill and did it to great effect. An Italian who loves stilettos, and this pin is my favorite.

[@dlmiller7873]

It's nice to see a thing so fit for purpose.

[@felixcat9318]

What an interesting and informative video this is, I'm very pleased to have found your excellent channel and to have subscribed. Your FS Dagger is beautiful and very good value, thank you for including the link to the seller.

[@louislarose6613]

Great Review Sir ! Is it possible that the blunt edges are there so that it can be freely shipped to areas that have strict knife laws ? In some places a double edge is taboo whereas a blunt 'letter opener 'can get through customs.

[@ziggarillo]

It's the pointy bit knife laws are concerned about, this knife was too pointy.

[@mcdoctorglock]

That was my thought- NY, USA has strict laws about double edged daggers.

[@user-rk3yb6nd1n]

I picked up one of these a few weeks back, how cool. ETA Not the nicer version Matt has, but still a Sheffield.

[@darrell9546]

I have a Fairbairn Sykes dagger I got a long time ago, don't remember who from. The edges of mine were rather dull as well. The steel is quite hard, I had a heckuva time getting it to take an edge.

[@johnhemming9721]

As a Boy Scout 70 yearsago we all had sheath knives no problems in those days ,one of my mates had one of those on his belt .That one had been used in WW11 Many years later I was given one {still have it} both of them were all black mine is in a leather case also stamped With 'Sheffield 'I don't think any commando would carry anything as shiny as yours.😃

[@mrdarren1045]

Fairbairn himself recommended having a shiny blade as it induced a more psychological effect on the enemy. As written in his book.

[@johnhemming9721]

@@mrdarren1045 I thought as it was a knife used by Commandos anything that reflected light would be a no go , chrome or black I would shit myself if confronted by a Commando day or night😁.

[@mrdarren1045]

@@johnhemming9721 yeah I think that's why they also made the black version..for taking out sentry guards at night etc. And I wouldn't want either of them stuck in my guts either.

[@paultemple5042]

@ SchollaGladitoria, My Father who was in the Highland Regiment of the British SAS had an original issue Sykes-Fairbairn Dagger and the blade was 6 and 5/8 th's Inches long.

[@matwetton]

Literally just been eyeing one of these, what a fortuitous review

[@jimboase5005]

👍Thank you for a concise and detailed review; very interesting

[@matthewsopinion7208]

My dad found one of these Fairbairn Sykes in the ground a few years ago and has a slightly visible written stamped under the guard ribbed handle no sheath It had a broken tip so I cleaned it up and re-profiled the tip it still has pitting but looks much better than it did and the cross guard is slightly slanted

[@alextopfer1068]

What do you think about the presence of a secondary bevel on knives like this? From looking at the dimensions it seems like they might not be necessary. Also, as a knife maker, i appreciate the detailed review. it's sharp and it chops stuff is pretty easy to achieve, it's the smaller details that show the skill and care of the maker.

[@Sorrowshard]

I have a lovely 1st pattern reproduction. One of my favorite things. Such a singular /purposeful tool.

[@scholagladiatoria]

I've seen it on your Instagram, very nice :-)

[@Sorrowshard]

@@scholagladiatoria Can bring it over if you like 🙃

[@Wingzero90939]

Matt Easton can you do a sharpening video on how you’re going to put a super sharp edge on that knife? I was curious how you would do that since it’s completely blunt. Especially for those of us who are interested in maybe getting one but don’t know how to necessarily sharpen that kind of knife ourselves since it’s completely blunt.

[@wayneholmes5786]

On my 3rd pattern I dismantled the knife so that I could use a Lansky sharpening set to get even bevels on the entire blade. For my 2nd pattern I just just a little Fällkniven diamond/ceramic sharpening stone without taking it apart.

[@Wingzero90939]

@@wayneholmes5786 Thanks man, I always wanted one of those knives I thought they looked really cool. It really does suck that they are blunt though.

[@cloudkmr777]

Definitely seen these around, never really knew what they were, so thanks for the great video on the knife! Unfortunate about the issues you mentioned, those would all bug me a lot too.

[@45calibermedic]

Nice dagger, Matt. I'm looking forward to seeing more of it and hearing stories about their use alongside your own comments and tests. Maybe you'll visit Tommy from Bartitsu Lab? Also, a while back, you talked daggers with Tod Todeschini and I wonder if you could update us on the story that Tod mentioned about the FS knife's origin. He said that he heard something about them possibly going to the V&A to study daggers or even copy some to create the FS. You said that the story rang some bells but you couldn't confirm it. Rather interestingly, you also mentioned that the creators weren't completely happy with how the dagger turned out. Cheers, can't wait to hear from you.

[@Deleteyourself83]

I bought 3 of these, 1x pattern 2 & 2x pattern 3's, one for myself and the others to my brothers as gifts, just checked mine and its a j. Knowell & sons, and all 3 were blunt even though I ordered sharpened blades.

[@FlyboyHelosim]

You can get the all-black third pattern of this knife for under £50 online in the UK from the same maker, a much more accessible price if you're not strictly wanting a shiny second pattern one.

[@hoppinonabronzeleg9477]

I had one in the 1980's I got from the Sussex Armoury. I can confirm there was an offset on the blade with respect to the crossguard. I was told this was to give it lateral strength, so that any perpendicular load did not go through the thinnest point, thus weakening it. ie, it is a bit like sloping armour on a tank. slanting it artificially thickens it with respect to the forces being applied.

[@redneckzen]

First off, great review Matt, as usual. I appreciate your expertise, of course, but more important, I am grateful to see your honesty and integrity -- if not your diplomacy lol -- in evaluating the current J. Nowill rendition of a time-honored blade. I have one of the J. Nowill versions -- mine is a black blade third pattern with a hexagonal nut on the pommel -- a couple of third pattern William Rogers so-called NATO versions and one third pattern of unknown origin that I was gifted in the 1970s; my friend got it "Army surplus" and appears to have gone through hell before someone tried to polish away the oxidization and grime. The J. Nowill is a complete and utter disappointment. At first I thought I got a cheap clone, but I did buy it online from a reputable dealer and it came with authentic packaging and has the same markings and features as your own. I liken it to a souvenir made for collectors, NEVER intended for combat or anything other than fondling and hanging on a wall. Like yours the profile taper of my J. Nowill is far more acute any authentic F-S blades I've seen in my travels, the edge is duller than a typical broadcast television comedy and IMHO the quality of the steel does not inspire confidence; true, it rings when tapped on a hard surface, but it sound tinny and toylike. True, it does flex some, but not in a way that inspires confidence. I've not bothered to sharpen it and I am curious as to your thoughts when you do sharpen yours. I wager the steel will not hold an edge, but I am a prejudiced old man. lol Also, that hexagonal nut pommel offends mine eyes. At least yours has a more traditional round nut. In contrast, my two William Rogers and my ancient unknown reek of what we Yanks call "GI quality." They feel like something that we would have been issued in the service, the blade profiles are more robust and the steel seems akin to what we have on our Ka-Bars and other government issue blades. Each has been sharpened -- the two William Rogers have what looks to be a factory ground edge, in fact -- and while not razor, hair shaving sharp, they will cut. Compared to the fragile needle-tip point of the J. Nowill, the William Rogers are again, more robust while retaining the ability to pierce leather and meat, no problem. Methinks my 1970s era knife is also a William Rogers, but I can't say for sure. As I said, the finish has been polished off and evidence of corrsion and wear are evident. Except for that it looks and feels like a solid military issue weapon, the profile is spot on and the quality of the blade is excellent, even with the blemishes and wear. The pommels on my three non-J. Nowills are of the traditional round design. And while they will flex and return to true, it takes great effort and makes me think they would do well should they encounter the use and abuse common in military life. Yay me. My impression of the J. Nowill sheath echoes your own. It is, as we Yanks say, a piece of crap. Again, it looks like something you'd buy in a gift shop for your uncle who never served but loves collecting cheap military junk. The other three I have -- even the old "patina'd" dagger -- have GI quality sheaths. Nowadays we'd be better suited with kydex, perhaps, but that's another story for another day. Of my modest collection of F-S blades, I would have gladly taken either of the William Rogers -- and yes, even the old unknown origin knife -- with me on deployment. The J. Nowill looks to me more suitable as a gift knife, one that would be more at home on a plaque to be presented upon someone's retirement or other ceremony. True, it can be a lethal weapon -- apologies to Mel Gibson and Danny Glover -- but so can a broken beer bottle. Or even an unbroken beer bottle. As you can surmise, I'm not particularly happy with my J. Nowill and it's in my box of "for sale or trade" knives. I suspect J. Nowill won't make any substantial changes toward increasing the lethality and quality of the blade as they sell as many of this one as they can make. Authenticity, and real world "battle ready" blades are a unique niche. Even here in the states, most "collectors" collect crap. I've military friends who don't know better. Every now and again, though, the real thing rears its precious head and I regain a little bit of hope. Again, thank you for shining a light on one of my favorite knives. I look forward to your continued studies and videos regarding Messrs. Fairbairn and Sykes. While their teaching may seem old-fashioned to some, their warrior spirit and philosophies were needed in a world at war. Like other "antiquated" warriors, they have much to offer us know-it-alls in these modern times. Cheers!

[@JamesLaserpimpWalsh]

Thanks for the review. I might treat myself. I always wanted one.

[@lawrencemartin1113]

Very interesting and full run down on that model. I recently purchased a third pattern version with blacked/deep blued blade by the same maker (via Soldier Of Fortune) and was pleasantly surprised at how nice it is. There are some minor molding 'flash' lines withing the handle ridges which should have been removed prior to the finishing process, and the edges are not very sharp, but nowhere near as blunt as your version. I certainly would not run my hand down the blade! But the issues with the scabbard/sheath that you have, are completely fixed and it fits beautifully. Even the elastic works better! I would have preferred a brown sheath, as I believe was sometimes issued during the war...? but black it is and will do fine. I like the second pattern handles and design, but went for the cheaper third pattern option as I was unable to justify the price difference over my version.

[@glynnmitchell9253]

Old video of Fairbairn demonstrating the knife shows him slashing a great deal (can be found on KZbin). My third pattered reproduction is also dull. I hope to see your sharpening of this blade.

[@andrewsock1608]

I could never understand their choice to use elastic strap on the sheath. You are right Matt , it doesn’t work. I always wondered if you are supposed to fold that elastic over the back of the sheath then stick the tip of the sheath through the elastic to put it on a belt. But it is still too lose and weighted wrong to hold the knife. It needs a big lead filled chape

[@lordsummerisle87]

I believe that it's a compromise between security/retention and a silent draw. Elastic may not last for ever but while it does last it's not going to rattle, it's not going to make noise being undone in the dark shadows, and it's not going to let your knife go for a flight when you hop over a ditch at 0dark30.

[@jgo5300]

The elastic on the originals is much narrower so didn’t cause the same problems. I understand first pattern had leather retaining strap with a snap. 2nd pattern & beyond, the elastic was partially about silent draw, but also about cost reduction when Britain faced an existential threat and every scrap of material had to be used as best it could.

[@joesimpson5288]

It sucks but does function if you slip a thumbnail upward beneath the elastic while drawing in icepick grip.

[@iroscoe]

Captain Peter Masons bit at the Combined services museum at Maldon has various offset knives as well as sort of F/S Bowie hybrid he seems to have been a bit of a knife geek along with his larger than life persona .

[@thomasblyth5047]

My understanding was the weight being in the handle helped psychologically when stabbing to give you confidence especially if you get stuck on a rib for example. The slight curve on a knife edge works the blade into the tissue so an edge on both sides helps cut if you miss the target slightly. For example, when stabbing down just medial to the loop of the first rib from above, an edge on both sides should allow you to cut the subclavian artery, vein and brachial plexus (stopping the weapon arm from moving) and then go on to puncture lung apex and, given the length of the knife, hopefully the aortic arch or heart. This technique can also avoid putting a hole in a uniform or you can hide the hole with the shoulder epaulettes possibly.

[@AaronRTS82]

Would love to see a video from you on sharpening!

[@uha6477]

Good vid. Been waiting for you to come round to the FS knife, so will be keeping an eye out for the other vids. However, won't sharpening it dull the polished finish and if you're not very good at it risk ruining the geometry of the blade?

[@jamesg6675]

Thanks so much, I am purchasing the boker v42 on Amazon right now

[@robertpatter5509]

I have one of those, but it's the Commando Fighting Knife Fairbairn Sykes Wasp 3rd Pattern Handle. Propably a slightly smaller version than others. Considering it's a wasp model. It does also have a yellow and black handle. Buzz. Buzz. It's quite nice overall. Quite sharp I must say. Not exactly cheap either. Think it's 1075 steel

[@johnreed3576]

Great vid! Very interested in the higher end replica’s from Edinburgh Armoury etc, and also the originals such as the J Woulstenholm made examples

[@grantbardsley3148]

Just a heads up that third pattern FS knives by Nowill are available from at least a couple of other googleable UK retailers for much less money.

[@simonbatty5677]

Brilliant Video really enjoyed,looking forward to seeing future videos Thank You

[@OriginalOwner777]

On the 3rd version still being in use. It is by some members of the millitary however they have had to buy them themselves. The Fairbairn Sykes stopped being isued by the MOD in the 1980s

[@TheWirksworthGunroom]

Before the UK Governement made mail order of knives more trouble than it was worth, I used to carry a good variety of Sheffield Knives in stock. In fact I only ever stocked Sheffield blades. Most stock was folding pocket knives, army pattern folding utility knives, skinning blades and so on but I'd always put a Fairbairn-Sykes on the order, one of the cheaper Mk.III types with the cast alloy grips. Whilst many of the Sheffield makers names are owned by one group, it's certainly not the case that they are all made in the same plant going by what I saw. Neither are Fairbairn-Sykes Mk.IIIs sold under different names by different companies all the same as I saw considerable differences in quality, espcially in grip castings, from different suppliers, all made in Sheffield. I still keep some for retail in the shop, there's a Mk.III on the shelf in fact but I must admit I'm due a re-order. Choose carefully, there are many good makers in Sheffield but some are better at certain models than others. I buy from more than one but am selective of which products I have from whom.

[@inregionecaecorum]

This knife came from the Jack Adams factory, a small independent maker. Jack Adams was still making knives in his eighties, I have had a number of blades from the factory, all made to order, I had to wait for them.

[@zoiders]

I have not had a single problem mail ordering a knife in the last two years.

[@TheWirksworthGunroom]

@@zoiders You haven't been running a mail order business selling knives. It's not viable on a small scale and knives were never our main business,

[@TheWirksworthGunroom]

@@inregionecaecorum yes I've had many knives from Jack Adams. Their F-S are better than those I've had from others. Their website lists Matt's model as £84 though unless I'm missing something. Their "Rabbiter's" knife is very good value and useful. The Dirk blade I was less pleased with. A. Wright are another good maker who produce some great pocket knives and hunting sheath knives. I've been round their factory. Still in the city centre. Other makers are still around some names have been noted previously.

[@inregionecaecorum]

@@TheWirksworthGunroom What did you not like about the dirk blade? I know they come with a threaded rat tail tang welded on which is probably not to everybodies taste but I believe that is the traditional way most are made.

[@MarkiusFox]

I'd lay blame for the dull edge on laws in other countries which don't favor shipping sharp things for one reason or another. Also, thank you for this video! I was on the fence about buying one and saw mixed reviews.

[@pmcgee003]

Yes. I'm sure their legal department feels that if you want it sharp, that's on you. 🙂

[@wayneholmes5786]

I would guess this polished version is intended as a presentation piece and there doesn't need to be sharp. Both of my all blued MOD versions were sharp out of the box, not razor sharp but sharp enough.

[@franz6595]

I love this. Please make a combat knife series Matt :D edit: It's really hard to find knowledgable ppl talk about this..

[@richardbaxter2057]

Try the Eickhorn FS2000 that is made in Solingen.....a modern version of this Dagger and what can be accurately described as a “surgical” tool. The US M7 bayonet is also worth reviewing as a Fighting Knife.

[@jakubfabisiak9810]

The late Mors Kochanski, who was an expert instructor in survival specializing in the boreal forest did mention seeing a lot of FS knives after the war (along with many surplus KA-BAR knives), and recalled that the FS made a superior fillet knife.

[@mannihh5274]

I saw a lot if not every of MK's YT-videos, but I never heard him claim this - can you please tell me your source? Who ever used a filetting knife will remember, that it was very thin, skinny and flexible to be able to follow the bones - whereas the FS is rather stiff and would certainly need a lot of grinding.

[@jakubfabisiak9810]

@@mannihh5274 it was in one of several videos he made on the topic of "survival knives". Iirc it is over at the Karamat Wilderness Ways channel. Edit: possibly this one: kzbin.info/www/bejne/pKnYc5xmeM5km68

[@mannihh5274]

@@jakubfabisiak9810 - thanks, that's one of the few I missed. The FS he showed seems to have a faily thin blade, so he might have make it work, but in general FS-knives are thick and stiff with steep angles, which aren't great at filletting.

[@jakubfabisiak9810]

@@mannihh5274 well, you have to consider that his two main options were Ka-Bar, and FS, so it might be a case of lesser evil. Then again, properly sharpened, FS wouldn't be so bad. And then there's the legendary clip from the late Stan W Scott: kzbin.info/www/bejne/q3WqeX6vd5iHlbc

[@Ve-suvius]

@@mannihh5274 Lousy fileting knives indeed. And for the 'throat cut, taking out sentries'. The boning knife is a better choice. Slicing edge is what you want there. Not the diamond shape of the F-S. To each their own ofcourse. It's classic knife, the F-S. But for some 'tasks' there are better choices. Some not even looking that 'commando'. Looks aren't everything.

[@superchucksvd]

I have had willam rogers of Sheffield 3rd pattern repro for years and its my favorite knife.

[@slick_slicers]

Like you I’ve handled many, many original FS knives, and they almost never sharp. The two I have, one issued to my Grandfather in 1945 and the other found on a beach on D-Day are not sharp, and never sharpened. I keep coming across reviewers who say they should be sharp, but they were not, ever issued sharp. A few were field sharpened, but not issued sharp. Loose scabbards we’re not uncommon either. The elastic is in about the right place, but yours is a lot better than any issued knives… it was crap. It’s probably why my D-Day example was dropped, probably within moments of its owner having hit the beach. It was also usually brown. A video comparing my two is available on my channel (both 3rd pattern with genuine WWII provenance), but I’ll not add a link out of politeness. They are far from the only ones I’ve ever handled as I’ve been collecting knives for almost 50 years and am from a military family.

[@wayneholmes5786]

According to Fairbairn himself they were always intended to be user sharpened. Maybe to cut a step out of production or to accomodate user preferences on sharpness and edge angles.

[@connorperrett9559]

@@wayneholmes5786 This is how I think most tool and weapon blades should be sold. A factory bevel, but basically butter knife sharp so the user can sharpen it to their preferences. Honestly if you aren't comfortable with learning to put a good edge on a blade then you should reconsider owning them, it's part of basic maintenance.

[@BlesamaSoul]

You can get molle camo sheaths for the knife, most end users would look a them or some other form of replacement for the sheath provided.

[@oddrocket2743]

Would love to see you review the Applegate Fairbairn model and the Marine Raider dagger.

[@showton8333]

For what it's worth; My uncle fought in WWII, but wouldn't really talk about it. I acquired what I was assured by the trader was an "original WWII S/F knife and sheath" that looked in "rough" condition, I showed it to my uncle commenting "It must be a fake, there's not even any retention for the blade!" He said: "No, THAT KNIFE is REAL. It use to have an elastic band for retention. We would cut them off, and use a rubberband to retain the knife. THAT KNIFE wasn't used often, but when it was, you may not have had the luxury of time. So you simply broke the rubberband removing the knife." Me: "That looks like an good way to lose the knife, to me!" Him: "I suppose you're right. But I never lost mine. And never knew anyone else who did. But it could happen." He passed away last December at age 100.

[@johnchristopherrobert1839]

It makes a fantastic letter opener too.

[@itsme-paul]

I have a Nowill 3rd pattern FS knife, and I wouldn't be running the edges over my arm like that - they are sharp! Last one I bought withing the past 18 months was also of similar quality. I reckon they make the most authentic FS blades. (I note that my blade has the minor offset against the guard of maybe a couple of degrees. I'd never noted that until this video!)

[@tomsherwood4650]

I have a Nowill dagger that is a very fancy one, sort of a civilianized similar version of that F.S. dagger I guess. The scabbard is just a sort of plain flat loose fitting leather type. I would like it to have more of a form fitting scabbard with metal tip, sort of like a sword scabbard. Otherwise it is a work of art. They were for sale on ebay, I have not checked lately.

[@InquisitorJack]

I really like mine, but it did come with part of the edge blunted by the steel cap in shipping. Fortunately a friend was able to fix that for me

[@kukuri007]

Years ago I read about this blade and Mr. Fairbairn. One of the knives shown was one the Fairbairn family had that they called the “Mexican Knife”. Supposedly it was given to him in Shanghai by a US marine. Supposedly the inspiration for this blade.

[@camerongunn7906]

For what it was designed to do, which is open people's arteries up, it does it real well. I had a reproduction that I carried in Iraq. Yeah, they're pretty effective.

[@jasonjulian1]

I think I'm picking up what you're putting down.... Conveying Personal experience. 'Nuff said I think.

[@peterchessell28]

@@jasonjulian1 Funny that I think it,s bullshit.

[@jasonjulian1]

@@peterchessell28 OK. Good for you I guess?

[@camerongunn7906]

@@jasonjulian1 Always carry a knife when room-clearing. If someone grabs your gun, stabbing is more effective than punching.

[@stanmil5495]

​@@camerongunn7906youre cleanind a room badly if somes grabbing your rifle Wouldnt it be easier to grab your side arm than a knife? And wtf is your number 2 doing while your mucking around

[@ulfhunden]

I have a 3rd pattern repro made my IMA-USA. It too came with a slightly angled, unsharpened blade. I quite like the idea of Fairbairn-Sykes but find the likes of the Ka-Bar to be far more useful.

[@TheWorldRealist]

I have a ww2 type 3. The nut on the end could be removed and lead shot added to adjust balance. Also many type 3 knives have a flat filed on the handle. This was to orient in the hand in the dark. For modern use we could use a kydex sheath for fitting on molle packs

[@dogman0711]

I have three in my collection....two are the second model original....they're pretty hard to come by these days.on the length blade...I've read that 7 inches was preferred as it was needed to penitrate heavy winter clothing and vital organs.

[@robertdeen8741]

I thought the length was based on it's ability to reach the Subclavical from the base of the neck.

[@gdluna7168]

I put my leather sheath up and replaced it with a Kydex sheath! Just a note with the kydex it came with a grip that would not let go! I had to modify it by heating it up and adjusting it to the hold I wanted.

[@thepenultimateninja5797]

That's a beautiful F/S. Puts my Pakistani made replica to shame, and now I need to get a proper one lol. About it not being sharpened, I bought a G. Ibberson Sheffield-made pocket knife nearly 30 years ago, and it literally had no edge. By that, I mean it didn't have a bevel at all. The blade was mirror polished, and the edge was rounded over - it had not had anything done to it after the blade was polished. It wasn't just a freak one that accidentally made it through QC without being sharpened, they had several similar knives in different sizes, and I examined a few of them before settling on one. They were all the same. When I mentioned it to the shopkeeper, he said "Yeah, you have to sharpen it yourself. I wouldn't sell a loaded gun!" I still have the knife, and I wasn't able to put a decent edge on it until quite recently, when I bought a Lansky guided sharpener and put a proper bevel on it.

[@dennislloyd494]

Digging through some remote areas of my house, I was delighted to find my Wilkinson commando dagger, been so long since I'd seen it I figured it had been stolen. Bought it in Vancouver in the late 60's. What struck me was the heavy handle as per your point. I had put it up unsheathed and I think the sheath has shrunk as it leaves about 3/8" blade exposed.and I'm not going to force it deeper. The sheath has stood up well despite some stitching having let go at the top of the 'belt loop' and no rivets were used. The grip is the ringed style and the blade came with what I always considered a parade grind which sadly I sharpened years ago rather poorly considering my OCD. I received some serious frowning by 'experts' that told me they weren't sharpened as a dull edge left a ragged stab wound and was more difficult to suture what a joke. It's back in my loving care now and I can die a little happier in the knowledge.

[@MKD.357]

As my late grandfather used to say about a dull knife: You could ride the rail to London on that and not even scratch your ass.

[@techwg]

Excellent video so far. Not sure if you will cover this, but the 2nd pattern you have is longer than the 3rd pattern and will NOT fit inside of currently issued MTP British military sheaths. But that is a very expensive site to buy one from. I got mine from soldier of fortune, the 3rd was about £50 and the 2nd was about £60-£70. sheffieldknives are a bit pricier than SOF but still cheaper than the site you cited. But as long as people can buy them at a price they're happy to pay, that is good.

[@renedepaula]

I loved your review and I purchased this knife because of it! I already had a lesser quality one but I trust your opinion

[@renedepaula]

@Kelly Harbeson it's a really tempting option... I already own am Acta Non Verba dagger and the quality is impressive

[@madmeerkat1158]

I have my uncle's 2nd pattern F/S knife made by Wiĺkinson Sword. He was with 41 RM commando and landed on Sword beach. When, as a boy I would ask him if he ever had to use it in anger, he would just smile and say that he would tell me one day when I was older. He never did.

[@garethh6962]

Best military dagger ever, simple and quiet. I think the angle help push it through the neck once stuck in.