3rd Reich Hunting Dagger – D1063
Hunting & Forestry daggers took a back row seat during the 3rd Reich era. These beautiful Hirshfangers which were produced in abundance during the Imperial era and before, now became less prevalent during the Nazi years. This could have been for a couple of reasons. The first is that edged weapon production was going full bore producing military and para-military daggers and swords, for a multitude of organizations. And the second, with the approaching of the war itself, this severely impacted Hunting & Forestry club participation and events. In checking with renown Hirshfanger expert Gary Southgate from the UK, the dagger in this offering is up to snuff and shows some great features.
When you pick this dagger up, the first thing you notice is the beautiful stag grip has a stunning toned color, ranging from blacks and charcoal. No doubt that this was a choice piece of stag, used for this special dagger. Pinned through the center of the obverse, is the Deutches Jaeger stag & sunburst shield. It features the Nazi swastika raised above in the design. There is a little bit of the frosting remaining in this emblem, which still clings in a couple spots. The clam shell, crossguard, ferrule, and pommel cap, are all constructed out of heavy nickel silver. These enhanced hilts are something to look at and this one has taken on a nice toned look. A fantastic grip on this on this Hunting dagger.
As with the hilt of this dagger, everything on the scabbard is virtually untouched, and uncleaned. This shell is wonderful condition, and displays a decent shape throughout. The Moroccan dyed green leather is in great condition. As you can see, the upper and lower fitting have turned just about black with age just as you want to see. The are both secure to the shell with single factory brad, that hold each in place. Finally, to round this scabbard out, is the original frog that this dagger came with. If you’ve ever looked for this proper accoutrement, you know that they can be expensive. These hangers by themselves, can sell for over $400 alone. As a bonus is also the belt clip which matches the condition of the rest of this dagger, even the green felt is in great condition. A fantastic looking scabbard to match this untouched Hirshfanger.
Finishing up with the blade it is uncleaned, unpolished, full length, void of any tipping, chips, nor sharpening, the blade to this dagger is absolutely beautiful. Even the original matte finish is nearly flawless, showing just the slightest age overall. This triple etched blade display a hunting scene on the obverse side. With 2 running doe’s being followed by a stag, shown on the reverse. The etch is lightly factory burnished, to beautifully bring to out the animal and plant life on both sides. The light green felt blade washer is in place. The blade is unmarked as they come from time to time.
A beautiful 3rd Reich Hunting Dagger, with all the bells and whistles. SOLD