Original German WWII 1940 M24 Stick Grenade by Richard Rinker 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 head and shaft of the grenade.

The warhead is in very nice condition and easily unscrews from the shaft. It bears a manufacturer stamping on the top of the head that reads 336 1940 indicating manufacture by Richard Rinker G.m.b.H. in Menden/Iserlohn. The head has areas of minor rust but bears all original paint with traces of classic red German wartime primer paint showing through underneath.

The wood shaft of the grenade is marked ЯR 797 1940 which corresponds to the manufacturer Hasag, Hugo Schneider AG, Metalwarenfabrik Leipzig, Werk Meuselwitz, Thuringia. The wood shaft handle is excellent. The lower screw cap is complete and unscrews with ease. The shaft is correctly hollow to allow the internal components and porcelain donut bead with pull string (not included).

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.