Fairbairn Sykes Commando Knife

There is something about a weapon that is both functional and pleasing to the eye at the same time. Where the weapon possesses admirable qualities of both form and function, then it's appeal is all the greater overall.

This martial elegance can be found in all finely crafted weapon types through the ages, from longbows to longswords, rapiers to pistols and rifles to aircraft.

When the proportions of all individual parts work together in a perfect balance to create an aesthetically pleasing but functional weapon or machine, then emotionally contrasting elements speak volumes such as aggressiveness with beautiful form and grace with deadly purpose.

The Fairbairn-Sykes Commando knife is the Spitfire of the knife World, and both are still regarded as all-time combative classics.

Both hail from the same era and were employed over and on the very same battlefields in one of the greatest conflicts the World has ever known. Both are beautiful to behold in their own right and highly effective killers in trained hands.

Now devoid of combative intent by their wielding, they both stand today for us to know and admire as awe inspiring instruments that helped secure the victory and freedom of Allied forces.

They exist today as rare and real reminders of their original duties and serve to ensure that We Shall Remember Them.

The British Commando knife was first designed in 1940 by close combat legends William Fairbairn and Eric Sykes, who established and taught the combative training methods for wartime special forces such as the independent companies, SOE, Commandos, U.S Rangers and OSS.
Though known as the FS Fighting knife, this was not designed to be a knife fighting knife, but primarily designed to be used in silent killing actions such as sentry take-outs. The techniques of effective use were taught to various special forces at Highland training centres such as Lochailort Special Training Centre (STC) and Achnacarry, which was the Commando Basic Training Centre (CBTC) from 1942-1945.

The 1st pattern knife was originally manufactured exclusively by Wilkinson Sword Company, and was in great demand from first production. Original 1st pattern knives are highly collectable and sought after today with top quality examples selling for thousands.
The 2nd pattern was manufactured by many companies throughout the UK, and has often been regarded as the most effective pattern of Commando knife ever made. The diamond knurled brass grip provides excellent purchase wet or dry. The hand-ground 7 inch high carbon steel blade carries both edges for the full length of the blade. The scabbard features an elastic retaining band for silent drawing, and rear tabs for stitching the scabbard to any piece of clothing or kit. Commandos were advised to carry their knives wherever they might find most convenient for access.
Macdonald Armouries has researched these unique weapons in great detail to offer high quality reproduction 1st and 2nd pattern knives today. Our knives look, handle and perform as originals.

Features include:

7 inch hand-ground EN45 spring steel blades.
Blades are a full 1/4 inch thick at ricasso and distal taper to point.
Blades are sharpened as standard.
Full tang.
1/8 inch thick steel guards.
Solid brass turned and knurled grips.
Authentic form brass top nuts.
Accurate balance overall (approx. 1 inch back from guard)
Authentic pattern scabbards with riveted brass chapes, securing tabs and press stud or brown elastic retaining straps.
FULL RANGE OF CUSTOM OPTIONS AVAILABLE - SEE BELOW!

!!FREE SHIPPING ON KNIFE ORDERS FOR SERVING AND VETERAN MILITARY PERSONNEL!!
Provide current or previous service details with your order and we'll happy ship it to you free of charge!

1st Pattern FS Knife

In 1940, following a meeting with close combat legends William Fairbairn and Eric Sykes, Wilkinson sword went into production of the very first nickel plated fighting knives that were to symbolise close combat and the spirit of the British Commandos and Allied special forces.
70 years on, Macdonald Armouries is delighted to offer high quality reproductions of this legendary knife.

We have spent many months in research and development in order to ensure accuracy and authenticity in reproduction of every element of knife and scabbard. Our pieces convey the same look and feel of wartime originals and it is with such dedication to detail that we offer our 1st pattern to honour the original Wilkinson made knives and the Commandos that used them.
1st pattern scabbards may be ordered without securing tabs on request.

Price per piece £240.

Original 1st pattern (left)
Armouries repro (right) Armouries 1st pattern FS knife
and scabbard

FS Fighting Knife etch Armouries ricasso etch

1st pattern in scabbard 1st pattern and scabbard

1st Pattern Full Black - The FS Shadow

It is said that the best way to keep tradition alive is not to pray to the ashes, but to keep the fire alive.

This is our own exclusive creation and offering to continue the FS tradition today. The Shadow is a full black version of the original Fairbairn and Sykes designed 1st pattern FS Fighting Knife. Combining the deadly grace of the 1st pattern blade, guard and grip with a covert satin black finish overall, this is a knife that means business, and that business is mean!

Price per piece £240.

Ricasso etching detail From the shadows they came..

The FS Shadow. Day turns to Night.

2nd Pattern FS Knife

The following variations of 2nd Pattern are available to order:

Plain Finish - White steel blade, white steel guard, brass grip and top nut, brass scabbard chape.
Half Black - White steel blade, black guard, grip, top nut and scabbard chape.
Full black - Black blade, black guard, grip, top nut and scabbard chape.
Nickel Plated - Polished steel blade, nickel plated guard, grip, top nut and scabbard chape.

L-R - Plain, Half Black, Full Black and Nickel Plated.

2nd Pattern - Plain

The plain version has a practical material finish for all components. Grip and top nut in plain brass, guard in plain steel, blade with plain steel finish.
The scabbard features a plain brass chape and brass rivets. A simple and elegant look overall, available in satin or polished finish to order (polished finish pictured).

Price per piece £190.

2nd Pattern - Half Black

With the tactical philosophy of Commandos and special forces requiring covert operation, night-time engagement and silent killing actions, there was demand for blackened knives that reflected no light. To these ends, many 2nd pattern knives were made with blackened components. Our half and full black versions replicate these original knives. The half black version was designed with a plain steel blade that was in keeping with Fairbairn's original close combat philosophy of wielding a bright steel blade. This was coupled with a covert black finish on guard, grip, top nut and scabbard chape.

Price per piece £210.

2nd Pattern - Full Black

Our full black FS features blackened blade, guard, grip, top nut and scabbard chape.

Price per piece £210.

2nd Pattern - Nickel Plated

The 1st pattern FS knives and many early 2nd patterns were made with bright nickel plated grips and guards, and had polished blades, with nickel plated scabbard chapes to match. This followed the original philosophy of William Fairbairn, who stated "I believe that a knife should be bright and highly polished for the reason that 20% of the fight is lost by not striking awe in the mind of the victim that a flashing knife gives."

Price per piece £210.

3rd Pattern FS Knife

Our 3rd pattern knives are crafted according to the same specifications of high quality WW2 examples. The following variations of 3rd Pattern are available to order:

Plain Finish - White steel blade, white steel guard, brass grip and top nut, brass scabbard chape.
Half Black - White steel blade, black guard, grip, top nut and scabbard chape.
Full black - Black blade, black guard, grip, top nut and scabbard chape.
Nickel Plated - Polished steel blade, nickel plated guard, grip, top nut and scabbard chape.

L-R - Plain, Half Black, Full Black and Nickel Plated.

3rd Pattern - Plain

Price per piece £190.

3rd Pattern - Half Black

With the tactical philosophy of Commandos and special forces requiring covert operation, night-time engagement and silent killing actions, there was demand for blackened knives that reflected no light.
To these ends, many 3rd pattern knives were made with blackened components. Our half and full black versions replicate these original knives. The half black version was designed with a plain steel blade that was in keeping with Fairbairn's original close combat philosophy of wielding a bright steel blade. This was coupled with a covert black finish on guard, grip, top nut and scabbard chape.

Price per piece £210.

3rd Pattern - Full Black

Our full black FS features blackened blade, guard, grip, top nut and scabbard chape.

Price per piece £210.

3rd Pattern - Nickel Plated

FS knives of all patterns were made with bright nickel plated grips and guards and had polished blades, with nickel plated scabbard chapes to match. This followed the original philosophy of William Fairbairn, who stated "I believe that a knife should be bright and highly polished for the reason that 20% of the fight is lost by not striking awe in the mind of the victim that a flashing knife gives."

Price per piece £210.

Macdonald Armouries FS Specials

Marine Recon FS Knife

This knife was designed between Macdonald Armouries and one of the US Marines top Recon units. The aim was to create a high spec knife for demanding amphibious and covert operational use. The result was the Marine Recon.

This knife features a hardened, tempered and honed blade hand-ground and sanded from RWL-34 premium stainless steel (see below for steel info. and specs). The blade is Gun Kote blackened, which gives an exceptionally durable matt black covert finish. The guard is also Gun Kote finished and the blackened 2nd pattern brass grip and top nut are given a rubberised coating. The threaded tang is A2 stainless steel, which eliminates corrosion even at the peened end. Scabbard is MOLLE compatible as standard for modern equipment carry (Available in MTP or Covert Black)

Available to order at £275

Marine Recon with MTP MOLLE scabbard. Standing by. MTP Ready.

Marine Recon with Covert Black MOLLE scabbard. Standing by. Covert Black Ready.

Limited Edition Bob Podesta SAS Commemorative Special

We are delighted to offer a unique limited edition 3rd pattern FS knife.

Bob Podesta (MID) served a total of 27 years in the British Army, having served with the Royal Artillery, 95 Commando and a proud 25 years with the legendary 22 SAS. Aged just 21, his first operational tour of duty with the Regiment was in Oman. He completed a further seven tours in Oman where he received a nomination for bravery. Bob has served as a sniper with the anti-terrorist team and trained the men who went on to end the Iranian Embassy Siege. Bob's extensive specialist knowledge in Desert Warfare, Wilderness Survival, CRW and other related SF skills are highly sought and he continues to work operationally around the world.

To mark his service with 22 Regiment, we have created a commemorative special. Each knife blade carries an etched SAS badge complete with Bob Podesta's signature. A limited production run of 95 knives pays tribute to Bob's service with 95 Commando.

Each knife is individually numbered and sold complete with scabbard and a numbered certificate signed personally by Bob Podesta, 95 Cdo and 22 SAS. Get yourself a piece of regimental history!

Available to order now at only £270 per certified knife.

Bob Podesta, A Sqn, 22 SAS A proud tribute to the Best. Who Dares Wins

The FS Throwing Knife

Macdonald Armouries puts a spin on the classic!

Following the form of the 2nd pattern FS knife, our throwing knives are constructed from one solid piece of 75Cr1 steel which is hand-ground, sanded, incised, etched and hardened and tempered to a durable springy toughness. Each knife is etched with our unique variation on the original style etchings, with The FS Throwing Knife on one face and our Macdonald Armouries - Edinburgh etching on the reverse face. Our target-seeking missiles are ready to launch!

Available to order now at only £60 per knife.

The FS Throwing Knife. Unique etched ricasso. Prepared for take-off.

FS Fighting Knife Custom Options

Our standard 1st, 2nd and 3rd patterns of FS knives carry various options to create a more unique or personalised example to suit your requirements.

Custom Ricasso Etching

2nd and 3rd pattern knives are created without blade ricasso etchings as standard. FS Fighting Knife and Macdonald Armouries etchings can be custom ordered on any blade at only £15 per etching.

Custom Blade Etching

We also offer a custom blade etching service, replicating original wartime styles of customisation. We can create personalised name, regiment or logo blade etchings to order. Prices on application.

Custom Blade Steel

A quality serviceable blade demands the highest specifications in blade steel. For the very best, we hand-grind and sand FS Fighting Knife blades from RWL-34 stainless. This is a rapidly solidified powder steel that offers the ultimate in toughness and strength.
RWL-34 stainless steel data sheet

Additional price per FS blade - £60

Conventional stainless steel grain structure (AISI 618), Left and RWL-34 structure, right.

Custom scabbard option
For a modern carry option for your classic pattern knife, we offer the MOLLE/PALS compatible scabbard. This is ideal for operational use and is compatible with current issue UK and US military webbing, LBV's, chest rigs and equipment. A quality solution constructed from hardwearing 1000 denier Multi Terrain Pattern texturised nylon fabric that features velcro grip secure tabs and paracord leg tie. Available in MTP and Covert Black.
Available as an option to dress your knife or at £60 per piece if ordered separately.

MOLLE scabbard, knife secure. Ready to deploy. Rear view showing securing straps.

Covert Black MOLLE scabbard. Features elastic retaining strap for silent draw.

Custom Presentation Frames
For the ultimate showcase for your FS knife or for official presentation, we offer a high quality framing service for your display requirements. A choice of light or dark wood frame can be chosen to compliment your knife finish. Your choice of backing can reflect the regiment or unit comemmorated such as bottle green for Commando, maroon for Para or sandy for SAS. Any specific regimental or unit badge may be added along with a custom etched brass plaque. Your knife may of course also be of any of our patterns and custom etched if required.
Prices (excluding custom etching options) -
Plain 2nd or 3rd pattern - £250.
Half black, full black or nickel plated 2nd or 3rd pattern - £280.
1st pattern or FS Shadow - £300.

Parachute Regiment and No. 5 Commando SAS Comemmorative Army Commando

Regiment specific badge Custom etched brass plaque

Our Maker's Mark
The collector's market is full of Fairbairn-Sykes and Commando type knives and varying degrees of quality reproductions are available today from various makers. Unfortunately, there are also unscrupulous sellers who intentionally attempt to sell reproduction knives as originals. This does the market no favours and rips off genuine buyers who purchase in good faith.
In order to avoid the potential problem of our own pieces being sold as originals, we clearly mark all our knives with the initials . M . and . A . for Macdonald Armouries. This is deeply hand-stamped on the lower guard face of each knife. We also stamp our scabbards accordingly. If you ever see this mark on any FS knife, FS scabbard, smatchet or SOE knife being sold as an original WW2 piece, please report such sales directly to us that we might take appropriate action and alert the serious collectors community.

Testimonials
"Macdonald has produced a worthy modern replica version of the 1st pattern FS knife and in terms of craftsmanship and finish, the knife is very faithful to the original from 1940/1941 in shape and balance. Ever mindful of the collecting fraternity, he has etched the blade with his name and stamped the crossguard with his initials, given the grip a slightly different style of knurling. The knife and scabbard is a well crafted tribute to the original knifemakers and the men who carried it."
Robert Wilkinson-Latham (Son of the late John Wilkinson-Latham, Director, Wilkinson Sword Company)

"Mac does outstanding work and I am now waiting for my 1st pattern to arrive from him. If you can't afford a real FS you can not go wrong ordering from Mac he is a gentleman, keeps you informed of his progress and like I said his work is without peer.

I receive my 1st pattern from Mr Macdonald today and it took my breath away. All I can say is WOW!! Its hard to believe anything so deadly can also be beautiful. The fit and finish are superb and the workmanship and attention to original detail is outstanding. Mr Macdonald set out to pay homage to the original first patterns and has done so in an outstanding manner. I believe Mr Fairbairn and Mr Sykes would approve. I know mine will be the centre of my small military collection. This is the second knife I have from Mr Macdonald and you can be sure I will be adding more."
SFC Cliff Rittenhouse US Army (Ret) 82nd Airborne, 11th Special Forces, 77th Pathfinder detachment, 20th special Forces, Ohio, USA

"Maestro/ I have just recieved the F&S knife you made for me and the only word I can use is DELIGHTED. As you know I have waited many years to get my hands on even a copy of this piece of my family's history, not being able to afford the genuine article even if any are still about and for sale."
Andy Fairbairn (William Fairbairn's great nephew)

"The First Pattern knife I ordered from Macdonald Armouries arrived this morning. It's one of the first batch shown on Paul Macdonald's display of these beauties. This knife is a superb copy of what Fairbairn, Sykes and Wilkinson achieved as a team during the early days of WWII, with a balance, size, and appearance identical to the originals. Mine will slice newsprint, a test I use to demonstrate a razor edge. For those FS fans out there who have been hanging back, wondering whether or not to take the plunge for one of these, my suggestion is to wait no longer. I have an original First Pattern with which to compare. Balance, weight, appearance and just overall appeal are faultless in this replica, and I am delighted with it."
Peter Hooker, Ontario, Canada

"A very authentic "copy" of the FS knife.... correct down to the smallest detail.... If I didn't know that Macdonald Armouries was not the original wartime manufacturer, I would have thought I had stumbled upon an unissued wartime example... wonderful work."
Gavin Gardiner, Gavin Gardiner Limited, Modern and Vintage Gun Auctioneer, England

"Macdonald Armouries work and service is outstanding! They were responsive to unique requests and executed the product reproduction flawlessly. Thank you for your attention to detail and smooth transaction."
Les Knebl, Australia

"I received your knives. They are amazing. I really feel as though I have a piece of history in my hands."
Director of Operations, Marine International Safety and Security Team, Canada

"Thank you for your work, the knife is great and an excellent repro. I can say 1st class reproduction."
Patricio Diez Butty, Combatives Instructor and author of The Silent Bodyguard, Argentina

"The F/S first pattern you created for me far exceeded my high expectations. As a collector of F/S knives I can say your knife is exceptional. I am using your exact reproduction as an example of what an original mint condition F/S should be like. Your first pattern blade will be displayed next to the original first pattern Wilkinson knife. It is my hope that the original F/S knife is as well constructed as your reproduction. The F/S knife produced by you is an exceptional hand crafted blade. The standard you have set leaves little or no room for improvement. Based on the quality of your work it my intention to add a second pattern knife of your making to my collection. This knife will be used as an example of what a 1940's new issue second pattern would have been like."
James Markiewicz, FS knife collector, USA

"Phenomenal levels of service from a professional team on the tightest of timescales. We were delighted with the quality of the end result and the detailed levels of etching. Highly recommended."
Daniel Porteous, 2Lt., British Army

"I have been looking for some-time for an rugged looking kilt pin and Sgian Dubh that were made by craftsman that were 'nae too fancy', my search made all the more difficult because I now live in the USA. I saw a unique Kilt Pin on the site, and it was exactly what I was looking for, I knew immediately I had found traditional craftsmen. Paul also accepted my challenge of creating a scaled version of the Fairbairn Sykes Commando Dagger (that did not look like a letter opener). The proportions are perfect and I am now the proud owner of the dutifully inscribed 'Sgian Cmdo. #1' All you kilt wearers that are honoured to wear the 'Green Lid'.. give the man a call and get yours ordered. Put Swagger in the Dagger. Per Mare Per Terram"
J.J., ex Royal Marine Commando

"I needed a scabbard to complement a rare WW2 Ribbed and Beaded FS knife belonging to my late uncle. Macdonld Armouries supplied a superb replica scabbard which is as original as it gets. The knife looks fabulous in it, and I am very pleased indeed. Highly recommended."
Martin Cook

"After a few months wait I had my Macdonald First Pattern Fairbairn-Sykes in hand. It seems unfair to call it a reproduction, it is more a continuation of a fine tradition. I am lucky enough to own a couple original WWII First Patterns and if you laid them all side by side, other than the MacDonald etching you'd have a very hard time picking it out from the vintage ones. The quality is tops and the feel is identical to an original. It is accompanied by a first class traditional sheath. Thanks Maestro for a very fine fighting knife. You can find photos of it on our website dedicated to F~S knives -
http://www.fairbairnsykesfightingknives.com/custom-fs-knives.html "
David Decker, White Shadow Security.

"I received the Fairbairn Sykes Fighting Knife (Mk2) which I commissioned with you for my daughter. She plans a life in the military and this is a gift for her upon which her very life may one day rely. Seeing the craftsmanship employed in the knife reassures me that it will serve her well. I would recommend your skills and craftsmanship to anyone seeking a quality handmade knife. Aesthetically, it is very pleasing in its finish and also it is obviously built durably for the purposes it was originally created in the 1940's. Many thanks for your excellent workmanship"
J. Adams

"I write to thank you for hand delivering my 1st pattern F-S dagger and scabbard last week. You have produced such an amazing piece of history and I am absolutely stunned and overjoyed with the end product. The meticulous attention to detail, craftsmanship and balance are almost identical to that of the original which is a testament to your work.
As a former Royal Marines Commando, the F-S dagger symbolises and means so much to me and those who have taken the Commando path in life. From wearing a cloth badge on an arm, to carrying an F-S dagger in the field, to having one tattooed on the body and for those a little long in the tooth, mounted on a plaque in their bar, Commando's past and present are rightly proud and respect the history of such a deadly weapon. Your F-S workmanship will be on display for all those privileged enough, to be a member at the Butcher & Bolt private bar."
Greg McKenzie, Publican - Butcher & Bolt

"In a world where the manufacturing industry gets too big and is de-personalised, the Master Macdonald has managed to combine the history with the Art in handcrafted weapons. The Macdonald Armouries OSS Stiletto knife is Art in steel."
Juan Pablo Gomez Azuero, Colombia, South America

"Your FS knife is not only an excellent copy but also a perfect product. Only professionals could realize and achieve such items. I understand why you are commissioned to produce FS knifes for many countries. Very good job. I shall keep in mind your service in order to pursue other orders and follow your FS knife collection with interest. "
Bernard De La Tousche, France