Original New Zealand WWII Brass Knuckle Theater-Made Fighting Knife Inspired by BC-41 with Leather Sheath by W.J. Lee of Rakaia

Original Item. One-of-a-Kind. This is a tremendous WWII Theater-made brass knuckle knife which takes clear inspiration from the BC-41 a combined knuckleduster and dagger weapon used by the British Commandos during World War II for close combat and ambushes. Although effective, it was eventually replaced by the Fairbairn–Sykes fighting knife. This knife is unmarked save for a very small broad arrow marking on the pommel, but comes in its original sheath which is stamped:

W.J. LEE
RAKAIA

This would indicate manufacture by W.J. Lee, a known resident of Rakaia, New Zealand from the 1890s through the 1940s. We have found other examples of knuckle knives in sheaths bearing this marking, further authenticating this example as a matched set.

The knife bears a 4⅝” blade which is double-sided, the edges of which are only present on 3¾” of the blade. The hilt consists of spiked brass knuckles which protrude past the pommel. The blade is secured to the hilt by two rivets, and they’re still very tight. The knife measures 8½” overall. The blade shows evidence of past oxidation pitting having been cleaned away, but it’s still rather dark overall. The knife appears to have been sharpened post-war. The only marking across the entire knife is a small broad arrow stamp on the pommel, which appears to have a 1 above it.

The original leather sheath is stamped on the belt loop with W.J. LEE / RAKAIA. It is held together by seven rivets and is in great condition for its age, and still very pliable. The original securing strap and snap are still present and are in great condition. This is a very well-preserved example.

A very interesting and unique WWII New Zealand knuckle knife, ready for further research and display.

Specifications:
Blade Length: 4 5/8
Blade Style: Double Edged Dagger
Overall length: 8 1/2“
Scabbard Length: 6 1/4" + belt loop