These were issued to the troops for the Ardennes offensive; in all probability, on account of the inspection stamp, to paratroop or other Luftwaffe ground units. The blade style was copied from the US M3 fighting knife, which the Germans would have encountered from the Normandy landings onwards in the hands of the GIs.
It is somewhat lighter than the American version, but nonetheless an extremely practical all-round fighting/camp knife.
A good, clean example, with all the original blue anodised finish to the scabbard. The scabbard and the beechwood grips would appear to have been varnished at some stage. Nice examples, especially with the blueing on the scabbard, are now getting harder to find.
If you want to comment on this item—re quality, age, etc—please email me.
[Edged Weapons : Dirks : Third Reich : Luftwaffe NSFK DLV]
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