This is an original 2nd model Soviet military issue Paratrooper’s Drop Knife as issued to parachutists and pilots during the Cold War and during the Soviet Afghan War era. These knives were used by paratroopers who were hung up or tangled in their parachutes' shroud lines. The knives were normally carried in a pouch on top of the paratrooper’s reserve parachute which is worn on the stomach (see page 234 of ‘The Military Knife & Bayonet’ by Brett where one of these knives are illustrated. Our example is in excellent condition. Its bakelite or compressed wood scales are undamaged and secured by alloy rivets (1st model examples has single one piece grips). Both grips have embossed stylised ‘bird’ or ‘dragon’ devices. The hilt is holed for wrist strap. Its uniquely shaped 5 ¼” blade has a correct rounded blunt tip and sharp serrated edges on both sides of the mid section. The blade is clean with just some light surface rubbing. The blade shank is numbered ’01 (or 7)60B’. The knife has its original correct ribbed open top plastic scabbard which has small wings at the throat, holed, most likely for stitching to kit or uniform. The price for this rare parachutist’s escape knife & scabbard includes UK delivery. ED 22067
£475.00