A MOST INTERESTING RLB 2nd Pattn MANS DAGGER WITH PERIOD UPGRADE.

A really nice dagger made by EF.HORSTER. It’s an early production piece as the pommel and crossguard are made of solid nickel. As is the lower scabbard fitting. The black ebony wood grip is in excellent shape, with no evidence of chips or cracks. The star shaped RLB badge is pinned through the grip. Crossguard features the ‘art deco’ style of eagle a swastika used on these pieces and is in great condition. The scabbard is where the interesting ‘upgrade’ has occurred. Whether this RLB chap was promoted go an officer, or just decided go do this ‘to be different’, we will never know. I favour the first reason and I think he was promoted to an officer, but didn’t bother or couldn’t afford to buy a new dagger. The top triangular fitting and shirt leather hanger have been removed. Replaced with a period nickel ring. In the middle of the scabbard a centre mount has been made in nickel with a fixed nickel ring. Both upper and lower rings are the same type and size and were obviously installed at the same time. The original black, gloss scabbard paint is 85% intact, but does show some chipping and wear around the centre mount. Totally in keeping with use and a bit of rubbing. How this was worn and with which set of straps? We can only guess, however it did probably look pretty good! I have subsequently found that this is not the only example, and there is a similar dagger, also with an added centre mount, in Volume VIII, page of Tom Johnsons 'Collecting Edged weapons of the Third Reich'. The standard blade on this piece is in mint condition wit all original factory crossgrain. The HORSTER trademark is deeply etched into the reverse riccasso. A most interesting and totally original piece. If only it could talk!

Code: 4045