WWII Fighting Knife. Information ?

[Robbo102]

Hi All
I'm new to the forum and wondered if anyone could offer some information on a Knife I've recently acquired.
I've done some basic research and I believe it's a Smatchet. I've never owned one before so I know very little about it.
I would like to take a look at the handle but I'm reticent about removing the leather covering as it looks very period. Would it be a bad move to remove the leather work ?
Also, the cross guard has quite a high shine finish. Would this be a plated finish or polished stainless ?
It has no makers marks so I don't know who it was manufactured by.
The blade is very substantial although I would have thought it would have been finished with a sharp point. This looks as though it's been rounded off ?
The blade measures 10 5/16" long x 2 5/16" across the center.
If anyone could offer any info regarding any of these questions I'd be very grateful.
Robbo

 

[oregon]

British: Fairbain Smatchet slicer for when you don't have a gun. Wooden handle under the leather (Mohogany, unless bakelite). Nickel plated guard. Note the dull blade surface finish in order to not give away your position via reflection(s). Don't remove anything. No markings anywhere, even on face of guard or sheath (covert)(note: Macdonald Arms stamps M. A. on the face of the guard on their reproductions)? If authentic have leather DNA tested to see whose guts were visited by this blade...

link to info: http://www.macdonaldarms.com/armoury/FairbairnSmatchet.php

link to a bit more info: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Smatchet

link to the good stuff, Dr. Snubnose holds forth on this knife: http://www.warriortalk.com/archive/index.php/t-73051.html