Original German WWII M24 Stick Grenade with Matched Shaft – Dated 1938 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 bears a manufacturer stamping on the side of the head that reads Rdf 12. 38. Rdf is a code from the code system for explosive manufacturers, which was introduced on 07.09.1936. “Westfälische-Anhaltische Sprengstoff AG, Werk Reinsdorf” was often shortened as “WASAG”, but here it is the location Reinsdorf that has been coded to “Rdf”. Incidentally the code “Rdf.” was only lightly changed when the new three-letter code system was introduced in 1940. The front of the head clear white stenciled writing that reads Vor Gebrauch Sprengkapsel einsetzen (Before use insert detonator). The head has 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 38 with maker code. The shaft has two spot of cosmetic imperfections but these are only surface imperfections, the strength and integrity of the wood handle is excellent. The lower screw cap functions perfectly and still contains the spring loaded mechanism inside the cap itself. The shaft is correctly hollow to allow the internal components which have been removed.

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.