WW1 Royal Flying Corps – Scarce Fixed Fin Bristol Pattern – “Flechette” Aerial Dart

Here on offer is an excellent original example of the scarce "Bristol Pattern" aerial dart.

This dart still retains all four fins and is the earlier version that had fixed fins, made from two sheets of bent metal that where held in place on the thin shaft by two thin rivets. Both sheets had BRISTOL REGD stamped onto one of the fins, as shown in my photos.

The dart was designed to fall weighted head first, the four fin tail would stabilize the dart in flight, allowing it to pick up speed ensuring its impact would be lethal.

I understand these darts where boxed (in 500’s) up so that a pilot would then fly over enemy trenches and pull a string to release the darts, 500 at a time, over the German troops below.

They were capable of inflicting horrendous wounds and could penetrate German steel helmets. However, upstanding British pilots viewed their use as underhand and eventually refused to use them.
The British War magazine, “The War Illustrated”, noted at the time the Royal Flying Corps’ aversion to using the projectiles, called flechettes.

One edition stated: 'Our aviators think arrow-dropping dirty work - because the enemy cannot hear the things coming, and because they make such nasty wounds.

'Also it was not possible to drop them with sufficient accuracy.'

This fine example is in excellent condition, with only light surface pitting to the steel, which would polish off if so required.

It measures 5” (12.8cm) long and weighs 38g.

Please see my pictures for the details of the condition, which complement this description.

Please see my TERMS OF BUSINESS regarding Deliver Charges and Insurance regarding additional insurance cover, should you require it, BEFORE the item is dispatched.

The responsibility lies with the customer to check with your Customs restrictions that this item can be imported into your country.

Many thanks for taking the time to look.

Code: 50875