This British Army Clasp Knife, also known as a Jack Knife, is a robust military-style pocket knife and a fitting addition to a British WW2 equipment set. The black checkered grips provide extra hold, especially in cold or wet conditions. With its practical multi-tool layout, this knife reflects the everyday field utility expected from British Army personal equipment.
The knife features a main blade, can opener, bottle opener and marline spike for rope and knot work. It also has an eye for attaching a lanyard, making it a natural match for the Hemp Cord Lanyard for Folding Clasp / Jack Knife WW2 British Army. Together they form a practical field pairing: knife in the pocket, cord secured to the kit, ready for daily soldiering tasks.
Subtle combination advice
Pairs well with the Hemp Cord Lanyard, British battledress, 1937 pattern webbing, haversack, water bottle carrier and other British personal equipment. For display or re-enactment, it is one of those small utility items that gives the kit a more complete and lived-in feel.
Historical Context
The clasp knife was a practical utility knife within British military equipment. Original WW2 examples often included several functions, such as a cutting blade, can opener and spike for rope or equipment work. Imperial War Museums lists a 1940 British issue jack-knife with a black plastic handle, blade, metal spike, combined can/bottle opener and a fixture for securing the knife with a lanyard.
For British soldiers, this was not a parade item but a working tool. It could be used for opening ration tins, cutting cord, carrying out small repairs and general field or camp duties. When used with a lanyard, the knife could be kept close at hand and was less likely to be lost during service.
Features / Specifications
- Type: British Army Clasp Knife / Jack Knife
- Version: newly made reproduction in British Army style
- Grips: black checkered grips for improved hold
- Main blade: stainless steel, approx. 7 cm
- Additional tools: can opener, bottle opener and marline spike
- Handle: integrated screwdriver point
- Attachment: eye for lanyard
- Construction: riveted blades
- Material: stainless steel
- Weight: approx. 200 grams
- Please note: lanyard not included, available separately
- Restricted item: always check local laws regarding purchase, ownership and use
