Germany, DLV. A Flyer’s Knife, by Stöcker & Co.

(Deutscher Luftsportverband Fliegermesser). An extremely well-preserved Deutscher Luftsportverband (German Air Sports Association/DLV) Flyer’s Knife, measuring 34.5 cm in total length when inserted into the scabbard. It features a 17.5 cm-long, nickel-plated, magnetic steel blade which retains factory-original sharpening to both the edges and tip. The reverse ricasso is maker marked with the classic seated king logo of Stöcker & Co., Solingen. It sits securely within a nickel-plated alloy crossguard which takes the form of a pair of stylized wings, inset on each side with a central black enameled mobile swastika, with an intact dark blue Moroccan leather buffer pad covering the seam. The handle grip consists of a gently curved wooden core fully lined with a dark blue Moroccan leather liner, while the knife culminates in a nickel-plated pommel which screws in to maintain the knife’s structural integrity. It is accompanied by its period original scabbard, constructed of a magnetic metal shaft, similarly lined in dark blue Moroccan leather. Nickel-plated alloy fixtures are secured to both the tip and throat with dual side rivets, with an integral loop emanating from the latter for the inclusion of a hanger. The former is included and consists of a brown leather strap connecting to a functional nickel-silver spring clip for uniform attachment. A functional catch situated within the throat firmly holds the knife in place during storage, while the exterior is marked with a DLV logo. Minor issues consistent with age and wear are evident, and include faint running marks to the blade, two small chips to one edge of the blade, wear of the nickel finish throughout the plated fixtures, minor fatigue of the leather liners, and slight denting of the scabbard’s tip. This untouched and early example remains in a near extremely fine condition.