Smatchet

A Smatchet is a short, heavy fighting knife/sword 16.5 inches in overall length (including grip). It was originally designed by William E. Fairbairn during World War II.

Design

Though described in the Office of Strategic Services catalog as a cross between a machete and a bolo, it was actually based on the Welsh Machinegunner's Knife of World War I, and was designed as a pure combat weapon. It has a broad, leaf-shaped blade sharpened the full length on one side, and from the tip to half of the other side. The entire blade is coated with a dull matte finish to prevent detection at night from stray reflections.Walker, Greg (1993). "Battle Blades: A Professional's Guide to Combat/Fighting Knives", pages 210 ISBN 0-87364-732-7] Buerlein, Robert A (2002) "Allied Military Fighting Knives: And The Men Who Made Them Famous",pages 200 ISBN 1-58160-290-1] Applegate, Rex and Melson, Chuck(1998). "The Close-Combat Files of Colonel Rex Applegate", pages 208 ISBN 0-87364-998-2]

Use

According to Fairbairn, the Smatchet was an ideal close-combat weapon for those not armed with a rifle:

"The psychological reaction of any man, when he first takes the smatchet in his hand is full justification for its recommendation as a fighting weapon. He will immediately register all the essential qualities of good soldier - confidence, determination, and aggressiveness. Its balance, weight and killing power, with the point, edge or pommel, combined with the extremely simple training necessary to become efficient in its use, make it the ideal personal weapon for all those not armed with a rifle and bayonet."Fairbairn, W.E. (Lt.Col.), "Get Tough!" 1942]

The Smatchet was used by British and American special forces (SAS and OSS, respectively) during World War II.

Other links

*William E. Fairbairn
*Fairbairn-Sykes fighting knife

Books and references

*Fairbairn, W.E. (Lt. Col.), "Get Tough!", 1942 ISBN 0-87364-002-0 (1999 reprint)

References