*British, Pre WW1 - 1937 Dated, Large Military Clasp Knife / Jack Knife, by Wade & Butcher Sheffield – Broad Arrow Marked*
A genuine British military large clasp knife of the Pattern 1905 / Modified 1913 type, manufactured by the renowned Sheffield maker Wade & Butcher and clearly dated 1937. These robust multi-purpose knives formed an essential part of British military equipment and saw extensive use with Army and Royal Navy personnel from the early twentieth century through the Second World War period.
The knife retains its original heavy-duty three-tool configuration comprising a spear-point main blade, secondary utility blade and long steel marlinspike. The ricasso is crisply stamped: "WADE & BUTCHER / SHEFFIELD", with the opposite side carrying the date: "1937". The marlinspike carries the British Broad Arrow over "6" government ownership and inspection marking. The knife retains its original chequered grip scales together with a large copper-alloy suspension/lanyard ring, now displaying an attractive aged patina and areas of verdigris consistent with long service and age.
These large clasp knives were intended as practical field tools rather than fighting knives. The long marlinspike was designed principally for rope work, knot unpicking, splicing and heavy utility duties. Examples dated immediately prior to the outbreak of WWII possess particular appeal as they represent British military equipment produced during the final years of peacetime rearmament.
Approx. Measurements – Closed length: 12.5 cm. Main blade length: 9 cm. Overall with main blade open: 21.5 cm. Small blade length: 4.4 cm. Overall with secondary blade open: 17 cm. Marlinspike length: 9.7 cm. Overall with spike extended: 22.2 cm.
History Note:
Wade & Butcher of Sheffield was among Britain's most respected edged-tool manufacturers and enjoyed an international reputation for quality cutlery and blades. Military contract knives bearing their mark are increasingly sought after, particularly dated examples from the inter-war years.
*Condition*
Good untouched service condition displaying honest age and military wear throughout. Metal surfaces show age toning, oxidation and scattered pitting consistent with prolonged use and storage. Blades display evidence of sharpening and wear with surface marking throughout. Grip scales remain intact with expected age wear and small losses. Lanyard ring retains attractive aged patina and verdigris. A well-used example with genuine service character. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
RQMEOXIO_9122241604
