British Army Clasp Knife - An English Military Classic Suitable for EDC

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Japanese, French, and now English with "The Genuine British Army Knife". And all carrying some storied history with them. I'm slowly working my way around the world! This also adds to that part of my collection of military knives in particular. The British Army Pocket Knife is a true classic which is still made using traditional methods in Sheffield, England from a high carbon stainless steel and includes a sheepfoot blade of 2.5/ 2.75 inches. I am not sure if they are issued anymore to British troops, which also goes under the title "British Army Clasp Knife". The older models had a plastic handle, it appears. 

The note included with the knife reads: 

You are now the owner of a knife manufactured by Joseph Rodgers & Sons Ltd., one of the companies in the 'Egginton' Group.  We are proud to continue the production of the world famous Joseph Rodgers pocket knives which have borne the Star and Cross trade marks for over 300 years.  

This is your certificate of originality and proof that this pocket knife is a hand finished product, made in Sheffield, England.  

The top of the note reads that this is "A product made by Sheffield's Premier Pocket Knife manufacturer", and displays the "star and cross" trademark with "Granted 1682".

There are four other models of this knife which are more multi-purpose including a can opener, a screw driver, and even a spike, which I think is used mainly for untying stubborn knots in rope.  I purchased this simple "one piece" model since I already had knives with additional tools included.  

The knife is all stainless steel (high carbon stainless steel), like its US Military cousin, but with a somewhat slimmer profile, although in my model is due, no doubt, to the fact it is "one piece".  It would make a nice pocket knife for EDC.  However, I will need to oil mine up with some mineral oil, because it takes two hands, and then some, to open it at present.  That said, once open, it clicks solidly into place.  

The Egginton Group, which manufactures these knives, describes themselves on their website (https://www.eggintongroup.co.uk/) as: "The indisputable owners and exclusive manufacturers of edge tool brands still made, using almost identical craft skills and techniques, that were used in 1682, 1759, 1785, 1830, 1872".  They have a history of the company on the website. 

 It is claimed that these knives have been used by British soldiers since the beginning of the last century, although I'm sure not in exactly the form as we now have it. 

 


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