Original German WWII Field Modified Trench Knife with Boot Scabbard by PUMA – Bakelite Handle Original Items

Original Item: Only One Available. This is a fantastic example of the rare German WWII boot knife with clip back steel scabbard. It is made in typical World War II “trench knife” style, with a 5 ¾” blade and an overall length of 10 inches. This particular example has been field-modified to have a “boning knife” shape for use in the field. The knife has contoured bakelite grip scales, retained with three pins. The hilt has a small oval cross guard and the blade is stamped on the Ricasso with the maker PUMA of SOLINGEN. Known as the “City of Blades”, Solingen is a city in western Germany with a blade-making history going back centuries. PUMA is a well-known brand from the city, founded in 1796 and still in existence today.

The metal scabbard is black enameled with rear spring clip; both in good condition for their age. Scabbard still has about 65% of the original finish. The blade itself has been ground down significantly to alter the shape to a “boning knife” type knife, and is still very sharp. The bakelite grip scales show some wear from use, but have no cracks or chips.

History of the German WWII Trench Knife:
In hand-to-hand combat, the edge went to the combatant who was better trained and adequately armed. The well trained professional soldier of the Third Reich saw to it that he had the edge by carrying a close combat knife (also referred to as a trench knife, which was the name given to it during the trench warfare of World War I). Close combat knives were a basic issue item and were issued to the individual. The basic issue knife was constructed of a one piece blade and tang, fitted with two wood grips normally riveted in three places for added strength. The blade was double edged, with the second edge running halfway up the top portion of the blade. A short metal guard provided the necessary weight in arriving at a closely balanced knife. The sheath was constructed of seamless drawn steel tubing painted black. A spring clip was normally riveted to the back, allowing the wearer to fit it to his belt, clip it to his boot, or some other place on his uniform which would allow ready access.