British, Post-War, 3rd Pattern Fairbairn-Sykes Fighting Knife, J. Nowill & Sons, Sheffield England, with Black Leather Sheath

*British, Post-War, 3rd Pattern Fairbairn-Sykes Fighting Knife, J. Nowill & Sons, Sheffield England, with Black Leather Sheath*

A fine post-war production 3rd Pattern Fairbairn-Sykes fighting knife, clearly stamped on the cross-guard “J. Nowill & Sons, Sheffield England”. Nowill, one of Sheffield’s oldest cutlers (trading since the early 18th century and registering their famous crossed keys trademark in 1842), was among the firms that continued to produce F-S fighting knives after the Second World War, both for military and commercial markets.

This example follows the classic 3rd Pattern design introduced in 1943, featuring a machine-turned ribbed grip with blackened finish, oval cross-guard, and double-edged stiletto blade. The blade measures approximately 16.8 cm, with an overall length of 28.7 cm.

The knife is housed in a black leather sheath with reinforced stitching and rear belt loops. The retaining strap bears a press-stud marked “FIMMA Italy”, consistent with post-war NATO or export contract fittings.

Historical Note:
The Fairbairn-Sykes fighting knife, designed in 1940 by William Ewart Fairbairn and Eric Anthony Sykes, became synonymous with the British Commandos, SOE, Airborne and SAS during WWII. The 3rd Pattern, with its ribbed brass grip, replaced earlier hand-made versions and was produced in large numbers from late 1943 onward.

After the war, Sheffield firms such as J. Nowill & Sons continued production of the F-S knife, supplying export markets, police forces, and military surplus trade. These post-war marked examples reflect both continuity of design and the enduring reputation of the F-S knife as the archetypal Commando dagger.

*Condition*
This knife remains in good original condition. The blade shows light surface wear consistent with age but is free from major pitting or damage. The ribbed grip retains most of its blackened finish with only light handling marks. Cross-guard stamp is legible. Pommel nut remains tight. The black leather sheath is solid, with stitching intact and only minor surface wear; press stud fastening is functional. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.

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