Original German WWII Luftwaffe Gravity Knife by Solinger Metallwaren Fabrik with Waffen Proof and Personalized Handle – SMF Original Items

Original Item: Only One Available. This is a very good condition example of an early-war produced Type I version of the legendary Luftwaffe Fallschirmjäger-Messer, or German air force paratrooper knife (FJM or FKm). It was produced by Solinger Metalwaren-Fabrik Stöcker & Co. GmbH, also known as SMF, who were one of the major producers of this knife during WWII. Their “Seated King” over Solingen trademark is seen on the blade, as well as ROSTFREI (rust free) indicating stainless steel construction of the 4 inch long blade. Solingen is known as the “City of Blades” and has a centuries-old history of edged weapon production.

The Luftwaffe Fallschirmjäger-Messer uses a sliding blade inside a metal grip frame, which was originally fitted with smooth wood scales, usually of beech or walnut. The blade itself is a relatively blunt spear-point, and the profile is flat ground, tapering to a utility edge. To open the blade, the user points the FJM downwards while flipping up the fulcrum-style operating lever, allowing gravity to draw out the blade to its fullest extent. Releasing the lever locks the blade into position. The FJM may also be opened by flipping the blade release lever while flicking the wrist holding the knife, causing the blade to extend. The FJM was also equipped with a folding marlinspike or awl. Primarily intended for untangling rope knots, it can also be used as a prying tool. The FJM’s spike does not lock when opened and was never intended to be used as a combat weapon, though individual German paratroopers may have employed it as such.

There are three principal types of wartime-era Luftwaffe Fallschirmjäger-Messers. The Type I FKm has wood scales (handle), was made from 1937-1941, and unlike successive models, has no ‘takedown’ capability. The Type II FKm is the same knife, but with takedown features, and was produced from 1941 to the end of World War II.

This example of a Type I FJM has fine, steel components, with what looks to be a mixture of stainless and regular steel. There is a number 5 inside of a Waffen Eagle on the base of the marlin spike. This is the standard Luftwaffe inspection stamp style used throughout the war. It also is marked with assembly number 285 on both parts of the blade release, and there is also 1 on the catch lever. Both leaf springs are still functional, though the one for the marlinspike is showing a crack near the rivet, which is unfortunately common. They were mainly designed for cutting through parachute rigging, so long term durability was not of a major concern. The knife is fully functional: the blade release functions properly, and the marlin spike snaps into place.

The blade of this knife is in very good condition, with a clear etched trademark logo, however the blade has definitely been sharpened several times, and there is scuffing from cleaning and wear on both sides. It still does however retain the original factory final polish grind cross grain throughout both sides of the blade. This texture is iconic, and is the definitive identifying characteristic for a real WWII German Blade. The edge is not currently very sharp, and does show some bends and nicks. It also looks like there was metal removed near the spine.

The grip plates are of walnut with the standard four retaining rivets. These plates are in very good condition throughout, with no major cracks or chips, just some staining and overall light pressure denting from service. They have however been personalized, most likely by the USGI who brought them back. One side is marked KENNETH, and the other side PIZZA. We assume this may be partly a nickname, but there may be some research potential here.

A very good condition rare Luftwaffe gravity knife by SMF with personalized grips! Ready to display!

Specifications:
Blade Length: 4″
Blade Style: Single Edge Knife
Overall length: 10 1/8”
Crossguard: 1 7/16”