FS Knives used by GIs

[popcorn]

Hi. I know FS knives were used by US troops. Were there any particular units they were more popular with?

[Reeder3]

My very first knife that was given to me was a FS 2nd pattern Fatman by my grandfather. It was given to him in 1946 from a family friend that had served and carried it in Italy. I do not know which unit he served in though unfortunately.

[cgutierrez]

In R. T. Ross's book "U.S. Army Rangers & Special Forces of World War II" there is a picture of LTC Darby talking to one of his Rangers who is wearing a 3rd Pattern F/S knife on his pistol belt. The caption reads, "3rd Pattern Fairbairn-Sykes stiletto of the type issued to members of the 1st Ranger Battalion who trained under the British-Commandos in the United Kingdom during 1942."

 

I also read once that F/S type knives were privately purchased by GIs while in England and generally will not show the British broad arrow symbol.

 

CG

[popcorn]

Thanks very much for the feedback. Much appreciated.

[V42]

Any unit or soldier could buy an F/S knife if he wanted to. All services could. In England, Wilkinson made them in London and all a soldier had to do is walk in at the factory and buy or order one. Some could be had with engraving (his name) on the blade and these F/S knives are worth a lot of money.

 

Bill