Private Purchase Variant of a WW2 British (S.O.E.) Special Operations Executive Lock Knife by William Rodgers Sheffield
Here on offer is what appears to be an unusual variant of a WW2 British (S.O.E.) Special Operations Executive lock knife, made by William Rodgers of Sheffield, England.
I believe this knife is possibly a “private purchase” version of the WW2 S.O.E. as shown on pages 46-47 in 'British and Commonwealth Military Knives' book by Ron Flook.
The only difference is this knife wasn’t made with the additional small curved “tyre slasher knife“, located at the other end of the knife.
Also, most of S.O.E. knives didn't have a manufacturers name or origin but this one has:
WILLIAM
RODGERS
SHEFFIELD
ENGLAND
stamped on the blade ricasso.
The polished steel clip point blade measures a total of 3 1/2" long, with a cutting edge of 3″.
The blade folds out and locks securely in place. It is released with a metal sprung thumb release which is stiff but works perfectly.
This knife has the black chequered Bexoid grip scales, that are held in place by three steel rivets.
Bexoid was a special purpose material, introduced by the British Xylonite Company in 1936 and initially used for making radio dials, The new substance was resistant to heat and humidity and part of a ‘new age’ of mouldable synthetic plastics.
The grip scales and internal steel body have a shaped cut-out to enable the blade to be gripped and easily opened.
I think this knife originally had a metal swivel lanyard loop fitted as the pin at the end is very slightly proud of the grip scales?
The knife is in great condition and working order, but has clearly been used, with some signs of sharpening and dark areas on the steel blade.
The original grip scales are in great condition with just one tiny crack on one side to the Bexoid by one pin at the end, as shown in my photos.
Open, the whole knife measures 8” (20.3cm) long and it weighs 110g.
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.
Code: 51353