Early RAD Hewer by Eickhorn – D884
No doubt about it, the earliest Reich’s Labor Corps hewers always have a certain draw with edged weapon collectors. But to locate one of these beefy cleavers in collectible condition, considering that were used in the actual field for all kinds of physical tasks, can be a challenge to say the least. Though not mint, the one in this offering is pretty damn nice.
A set of beautiful set of stag grip plates set the tone for the hilt of this hewer. The thick slabs are dark, nicely matched, fit with precision, and tightly fastened to the spine of this edged weapon. The countersunk screws are in good order, as are the corresponding reverse side lock washers. An absolutely stunning rich dark patina has toned the ferrule, tang, and crossguard components of his hilt in the most gorgeous way. The look that you will only see on these introductory silver examples manufactured in the first year 1934-35. That in itself is one of the draw to these early RADs which had initially such a short production run constructed in this manner. As soon there afterwards the hilts were a plated alloy composition.
One of the big challenges of these introductory nickel silver hewers is trying to find one with a decent scabbard. With these edged weapon weighing nearly 3 pounds and being swung on the wearer’s belt in the field, the shells took a beating and then some. So many times collectors will encounter one of these hewers in which the scabbard exhibits a lot of paint wear, or being retouched and freshened up somewhere along the line. Without a doubt, the scabbard to this one is a beauty! The shell remains straight, void of any major hits, creases, or dings, with a period factory black enamel that rates at least 95%. Oh, there are some surface imperfection here and there. Though I’m telling you, for one of these nickel silver early hewers it’s about as good as you’re apt to see. Both upper and lower fittings have taken on an absolutely gorgeous black patina that matches the hilt to a tee. 4 factory screws hold the hardware tight and secure to the shell. The very tip of the lower fitting there is one small crease that you can see in the photos. To finally top this scabbard off, it comes with an early style thick leather hanger. The accoutrement remains in fantastic shape, and looks like it’s been on this sheath forever.
Finally the blade. As mentioned, bear in mind, these cleavers were used as a tool in the field, by those serving in the paramilitary labor corps organization. Guys would use these early hewers to clear brush, pound in nails, prying, and more. Very much like a manchette would be used. The blade to this RAD while not perfect, is pretty damn decent. Considering that these hewers were literally used hard, and no doubt put away wet at times. The blade on this one remains full length, void of any cutting edge chips, tipping, buffing, or excessive abuse. Like many, there is some very light sharpening just at the very tip. How else would you cut anything while in use, if that were not the case? It is not all that detracting, and no doubt done during the period. Also common for these RAD’s, the surface shows some staining to it’s factory matte finish. That aside the labor corps motto Arbeit adelt ( Labor Ennobles) still exhibits some decent factory burnishing to the etch. On the reverse is desirable trademark of a squirrel within small double oval. That of course being the logo of the famous Eickhorn edged weapon firm.
You don’t see these early Eickhorn RAD’s all that often. And this one is certainly in collectible condition and has a lot going for it. SOLD