Original British WWI 1915 Dated all Steel Wire Cutters. MISC 825. Original British WWI 1915 Dated all Steel Wire Cutters. MISC 825. Antique & Militaria

A wire cutter used by British troops in WWI, this example has steel handles and are designed to slip into a pocket or bag. Wire cutters were typically stored for easy access on a utility belt or in a bag. Barbed wire posed a significant obstacle to attacking troops: it slowed or prevented progress across the battlefield and made soldiers easy targets while they were tangled or being cut free. 'Wiring parties' of engineers were tasked with cutting through barbed wire blockades, often at night, working silently to avoid detection. Measuring 27 ¾ cm in length this example works effortlessly and silently. They are all steel construction and have a hole to one arm to attach a rope or belt for easy access. One arm is stamped ‘WOLSELEY 1915’ (Entering wartime as Britain's largest car manufacturer Wolseley initially contracted to provide cars for staff officers and ambulances. Government soon indicated their plant might be better used for supplies more urgently needed) with a Broad Arrow. A very nice fully working example. The price includes UK delivery. MISC 825 (Middle shelf near telescopes)