Germany, RAD. A Model 1934 EM/NCO’s Hewer, by Carl Julius Krebs

(Reichsarbeitsdienst Hauer für Mannschaften und Unterführer). A well-preserved Reichsarbeitsdienst (Reich Labour Service/RAD) Model 1934 EM/NCO’s Hewer, measuring 39.5 cm in total length when inserted into the scabbard. It features a 25.5 cm-long, nickel-plated, Bowie-style, magnetic steel blade with a gentle curvature. The obverse bears an acid-etched inscription of “ARBEIT ADELT” (“LABOUR ENNOBLES”) in Fraktur script. The reverse ricasso bears a maker’s mark of “CARL JUL. KREBS, SOLINGEN”, circumscribing the firm’s monogram logo, in turn topped by a Reichsleitung des Reichsarbeitsdienstes (RLAD) insignia. The blade sits securely within a nickel-plated magnetic metal hilt with a ribbed crossguard, and with a hooked quillon and pommel. Two pieces of polished staghorn compose the handle grip, and are fastened in position with dual non-magnetic metal rivets. Accompanying the Hewer is its original scabbard, constructed of a black painted magnetic metal shaft. Nickel-plated magnetic fixtures are secured to both the tip and throat, with the former bearing double-sided RAD insignia and the latter featuring a ribbed trefoil design. A loop emanating from the side of the throat fixture accommodates a replacement hanger constructed of blackened leather with metal fixtures. A catch situated within the throat holds the Hewer in place during storage. Minor issues consistent with age and wear are evident, and include faint running marks to the blade, moderate loss of scabbard paint, and fatigue to the substitute hanger. It remains in an overall near extremely fine condition.