Early Slant Heer Officer’s Dagger by Klaas – D1114
The grip to this introductory Klaas army dagger is an attractive pumpkin color on both obverse and reverse sides. The distinctive dramatic downward right to left angle of the decorative lines on this handle show this to be what collectors term a slant grip army. The grip remains in excellent condition, void of any noticeable splits, chips, fractures or missing material. Wrapped around this hilt is the original portapee that appears to have been on this dagger forever, and is actually frozen in place where it was tied. Both the crossguard and pommel are of heavy silver composition, and have a dark undisturbed patina over their surfaces.
A beautiful scabbard accompanies this edged weapon. It is straight, void of any hits, bends, splits, or any other challenges. A gorgeous smooth black patina covers the surface, and is shown in the photos. Both hand enhanced scabbard bands are in place, the upper is a little bit askew and actually has a slightly different oak leaf pattern than the lower and slanting toward the hanger ring. Must have been a Friday build right before the beer started flowing! Both display the Klaas stars on the ends. 2 flush screws secure the throat.
No two ways about it, the blade to this dagger shows age, wear, and cleaned with an abrasive substance at some time in the past. That aside it appears full length and straight, with just a small tap blunt to a fraction of the tip. Oh I know every one wants a mint blade on every single 3rd Reich dagger ever produced, though that just isn’t practical as we know. It’s still a decent representation of a Heer officer’s dagger which was manufactured during the beginning of production in 1935. On the reverse riccasso the blade is stamped with the small kissing crane trademark, that of the Robert Klaas edged weapon firm.
Granted, it’s not perfect. But certainly perhaps a way for some collector to get into a slant grip all silver army officer’s dagger, for considerably less than what a mint example would bring. $745.00