Original German WWII 1943 Dated M24 Inert Stick Grenade by Hugo Schneider AG with Pull Cord Original Items

Original Item: Only One Available. This is an extremely rare M1924, M24, or “Stielhandgranate 24” German Stick Grenade, often called a “potato masher”. This example, acquired from the family of a WWII veteran, has been demilitarized according to specifications by the BATF. The warhead still unscrews. It still retains its original paint, and the original markings can be seen on the shaft of the grenade.

The warhead still has the original blue-black paint, as well as traces of black ink stampings on the top. However, these are unfortunately illegible, so we cannot determine the maker or date. The paint has flaked in many places due to corrosion.

The wood shaft of the grenade is marked WC 1943. The WC maker code stands for Hasag, Hugo Schneider AG, Metalwarenfabrik Leipzig, Werk Meuselwitz, Thuringia. The shaft has spots of cosmetic imperfections but these are only surface imperfections, the strength and integrity of the wood handle is excellent. The fittings on the shaft are a bit loose, due to the wood shrinking, and age.

The lower screw cap is complete and unscrews with ease, though it is definitely worn from age and use. The shaft is correctly hollow to allow the internal components and porcelain “donut” bead with pull string, which are present on this example, something that we do not see very often at all.

In WW2 the stick of the German M24 (Model 24) grenade provided a lever, significantly improving the throwing distance. The Model 24 could be thrown approximately 30 to 40 yards, whereas the British Mills bomb could only be thrown about 15 yards. The design also minimized the risk of the grenade rolling downhill back towards the thrower when used in hilly terrain or in urban areas. These grenades were extremely useful for clearing out entrenched infantry positions.

As grenades were disposable, encountering them on the market is very rare, especially with the original pull string and weight, making this an excellent opportunity to acquire one to complete a WW2 ordnance collection.