RAF Mk2 Escape Knife 22c/1996

A really beautiful condition Mk2 RAF Escape Knife. Stores # 22c/1996, and dated circa 1950 -1960.  A flat profile gravity knife with a composite handle containing a spring lock mechanism activated by two levers on either side of the hilt. This mechanism locks onto a stud on the sheath and so retains the knife. The blade is of stainless steel, straight with a pointed end, and measures approximately 10cm. The knife was worn in a metal scabbard /sheath, stores reference 22c/2202 attached to a cloth patch, stitched upside-down on the flying coverall leg. This enabled the knife to drop out on a lanyard should the wearer need to cut rigging lines of a parachute canopy in an emergency situation. These knives were aircrew of all three services and also by the SAS.