WW2 BRITISH PARATROOPERS/FAR EAST CHINDITS SHORT MACHETE FIGHTING KNIFE BY MARTINDALE
An original WW2 Paratroopers/ Pilots short machete fighting knife by Ralph Martindale. These weapons were originally made for British Paratroopers / Chindits operating in the Far East during WW2 (see pages 109 and plates 250 & 250A on 110 in 'British and Commonwealth Military Knives' book by Flook). The machete has a heavy blade which is 9 ¾” long and 2 ¼” wide at its widest point. The grips are a chequered composite material and are secured by three copper rivets to prevent rusting. The handle has some surface wear consistent with age and service use but is totally intact and secure. The butt is holed for wrist cord. One side of the blade is stamped with the War Department arrow together with 1943 date and manufacturer’s registered Crocodile trademark and name ‘Martindale’. The blade has some staining and damage consistent with age that do not detract from its appearance as shown in the images. The machete measures 14 ¾” overall length. These weapons are not usually found with their scabbards. This example is complete with its original leather scabbard which has a single retaining strap with press stud fastener, riveted and stitched body and leather strap assembly with buckles for belt or leg carry which are rarely seen as most have broken off. The rear of the scabbard towards the lower edge is impressed with WD arrow and by the manufacturer ‘BHG’.