FairbairnSykes

The Fairbairn-Sykes fighting knife is a double-edged combat knife that was developed in 1941 by William E. Fairbairn and Eric A. Sykes. Fairbairn and Sykes were both British citizens who had served in the Shanghai Municipal Police and had extensive experience in close-quarters combat. They developed the knife as a weapon for British commandos and other special forces during World War II. The knife is characterized by its pointed blade, which is designed for thrusting, and its short, thick grip, which is designed for ease of handling in close combat. The Fairbairn-Sykes fighting knife was widely used by British and American special forces during the war and is still in use today by some military and police units. It is also a popular collector's item. The knife has been credited with helping to save countless lives during the war. Its design has been influential in the development of other combat knives.