Original Items: Very Few Available. These are rare M1924, M24, or “Stielhandgranate 24” German Stick Grenades, often referred to as a “potato masher”. These examples, acquired from the family of a WWII veteran, have been demilitarized according to specifications by the BATF. Each warhead still unscrews and retains original paint, and in some cases the original markings can be seen on either the head and shaft of the grenade.
All examples are in service used condition, showing wear from use and weathering. Each will have a head and a wood shaft, but they will be missing the base cap, string and, porcelain beads. Expect various issues such as chipped wood, damaged heads, etc… These are genuine battlefield pickups that were most likely left in the field and acquired sometime in the early years after World War Two and brought the the USA in the 1950s and 1960s. Each is unique and will be 100% genuine. Damage, markings, and condition will vary. If you want a pristine example this is not for you but be prepared to spend twice as much!
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.