An original WW2 RAF Folding Survival Machete, manufactured by G. Butler & Co of Sheffield, England, and clearly dated 1945 beneath the Broad Arrow acceptance mark. These compact folding machetes were issued to Royal Air Force aircrews as part of their emergency survival kits during the latter stages of the Second World War. This one includes the scarce removable metal blade guard (often lost on surviving examples).

Blade:

The blade is very clean and bright, and features the distinctive forward curved single edge profile, designed for efficient cutting through dense vegetation or for general survival use. It is maker-marked G. Butler & Co, Sheffield on one side and Broad Arrow over 1945 on the reverse, confirming British military issue. The blade retains its correct wartime shape and shows light service wear, including sharpening and scratches, although, a lot better condition than we normally find these blades in. It folds correctly into the handle, with the locking catch mechanism working  as it should.

Grip & Fittings:

The grips are the correct black composite plates, secured by three rivets per side and showing only minor age wear. A Key identifying feature of the RAF variant is the lanyard loop fitted to the base, which remains present on this example, along with its cord strap. This loop was unique to the British design and allowed aircrew to secure the machete to their flight gear or survival pack.

Summary:

Overall, this machete remains in very good used condition, showing light service use, but no real damage or repairs. An honest good example with all the correct wartime features present.

Historical Note:

The U.S. AAF introduced a folding survival machete in 1942 for B-2/B-4 bailout kits, replacing the bulkier Collins Model 18. The RAF adopted the concept and contracted G. Butler & Co to produce a near-copy for British aircrew. Two practical British tweaks distinguish it from the American pattern.

1. Lanyard loop at the butt for securing to flight gear.

2. Issue with a separate metal blade guard.