British, Mid-20th Century, Richards of Sheffield "Tent Brand" Small Bowie-Style Knife, with Original Leather Sheath

*British, Mid-20th Century, Richards of Sheffield "Tent Brand" Small Bowie-Style Knife, with Original Leather Sheath*

A compact fixed-blade utility or small fighting knife, manufactured by Richards of Sheffield under their lesser-seen "Tent Brand" line. Measuring 18cm overall with an 8.5cm clip-point blade, the knife exhibits a Bowie-inspired profile suitable for hunting or field use. The blade is etched “RICHARDS / TENT BRAND / SHEFFIELD ENGLAND”, though now faint through use and polishing.

The grip is constructed from stacked resin/plastic washers mimicking leather, secured by dual pins, and flanked by aluminium or nickel-plated steel guard and pommel. A slotted nut secures the tang, with a visible full-length tang spine running through the handle. This construction—along with the domed pommel, curved guard shoulders, and synthetic washers—aligns with production styles from the 1950s–60s, a period when Richards was exporting in quantity to Commonwealth and overseas markets.

Accompanied by its original stitched leather sheath, clearly stamped “SHEFFIELD ENGLAND”, with press-stud retaining strap marked “NEWEY ENGLAND”—a common closure hardware maker for British utility goods mid-century.

*Condition*
Blade shows honest wear with moderate scratches and age spotting but no major damage. The handle is secure, though shows some abrasion to washers and patina to fittings. Tang nut and spine are intact. Sheath is structurally sound with stitching and rivets holding, though worn on the reverse with minor verdigris around the studs. Both NEWEY press stud halves remain functional and readable.

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