Germany, RAD. A Model 1934 Hewer, by Solinger Axt- und Hauerfabrik

(Reichsarbeitsdienst Hauer für Mannschaften und Unterführer). A well-preserved Reichsarbeitsdienst (Reich Labour Service/RAD) Model 1934 (commonly issued to Enlisted and Non-Commissioned Officer ranks) hewer, measuring 39.5 cm in total length when inserted into the scabbard. It features a 25 cm-long, nickel-plated, magnetic steel blade which retains factory-original sharpening to both the tip and lower edge. A narrow fuller runs the majority of the length of the top edge of each side of the blade. Acid-etched onto the obverse is an inscription of “ARBEIT ADELT” (“LABOUR ENNOBLES”) in Fraktur script. The reverse ricasso bears a maker’s mark of “SOLINGER AXT- UND HAUERFABRIK”, circumscribing the firm’s classic horse head logo. A Reichsleitung des Arbeitsdienstes (RLAD) logo is situated just above the maker’s mark. The blade sits securely within a nickel-silver hilt featuring a hooked quillon and pommel. Two pieces of polished staghorn compose the handle grip, and are fastened in place with two non-magnetic metal rivets. Accompanying the hewer is its original scabbard, constructed of a blackened magnetic metal shaft. Nickel-silver fixtures are secured to both the tip and throat, with the former bearing double-sided RAD insignia, and the latter featuring intricate ribbed and knotted imagery. Also emanating from the throat fixture is a wide and shallow loop for the addition of a hanger. A functional catch situated within the throat firmly holds the hewer in place during storage. Issues consistent with age and wear are evident, and include some tarnishing and running marks to the blade, tarnishing of the nickel-silver elements, and moderate loss of scabbard paint. This fine-quality example remains in a better than very fine condition.