British Army stainless steel jack knife, dated 1954, a post-war general service utility knife issued within the British Army during the early Cold War period. This type of knife reflects standard-issue equipment designed for everyday military tasks, including cutting, opening rations packs, and general field use.
The knife features a folding knife blade and a secondary blade incorporating a can and bottle opener, constructed from stainless steel to improve corrosion resistance and reduce maintenance requirements compared with earlier carbon steel patterns. The scales are dated “1954”—along with military acceptance marks, the “oil the joints” stamp, the “Broad Arrow” and the manufacturer stamp “RBS”. The handle scales are also made from stainless steel, designed for a practical grip and long service life.
Jack knives of this type were widely issued across British Army units in the post-Second World War period, forming part of standard personal equipment for soldiers in training and operational environments. Their design reflects a shift toward simplified, low-maintenance field gear during the mid-20th century.
This example represents a typical British military utility knife from the 1950s, associated with early Cold War service conditions and the continued evolution of general issue equipment.
Manufactured in stainless steel with a folding mechanism and secure handle construction, the knife is both functional and durable. Items of this type are collected within British militaria, particularly for their association with post-war service equipment.
Dimensions
Approx. 9.5cm closed length
Condition
Good overall condition, with surface wear consistent with age and use. The blade shows reasonable signs of sharpening and a broken tip. The folding mechanism remains firm and functional. The handle is intact with no significant damage or repairs evident.
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