Original Item: Only One Available. Fitted with a single-edged spear point blade, this is an original German WWII Nahkampfmesser close fighting knife, with a great “boot” scabbard. This basic design was used by Imperial German in WWI, and was popular during WWII as well. Many WWI knives were even reissued for WWII, however this definitely is a WWII production example.
In very good lightly used condition, this knife has a smooth clear plastic grip secured by three rivets and four smaller colored rivets. Grip scales are in very good condition, with no cracks or major chips, and a nice aged color. The blade is full length on the bottom of the blade, while the top has a false edge. The blade has been used quite a bit, and sharpened multiple times, changing the blade profile somewhat. It has also reduced the overall blade length by about 1/2″. There is however still some of the original factory crossgrain on the ricasso and flat of the blade rear of the “false edge”. Overall length is now 10 1/4 inches with a 5 3/4 inch blade. No markings are present on the ricasso.
The knife comes in a genuine rolled steel WWII scabbard with a spring steel “boot” clip on the back, which would allow attachment to the the side of a boot or to a belt. This style of attachment is held by pressure, and could also be mounted on other parts of the uniform. The finish on the scabbard is good, with just a bit of crazing and wear, without any dents. There is some chipping on the front and back, but not enough to really detract from the piece.
No identifiable markings markings but 100% original, a very example for display in any quality German edged weapons collection.
Specifications:
Blade Length: 5 ¾”
Blade Style: Single Edged Spear Point Knife with Upper False Edge
Overall length: 10 ¼”
Crossguard: 1 ⅛”
Scabbard Length: 6 ¼” with Boot/Belt Clip