Germany, Wehrmacht. A Boot Knife for Close Combat

(Wehrmacht Stiefelmesser). A well-preserved Wehrmacht “Stiefelmesser” (“boot knife”, for close combat), measuring 29 cm in total length when inserted into the scabbard. It features a 17 cm-long, nickel-plated, magnetic steel blade which retains factory-original sharpening to both the edges and tip. The obverse ricasso bears a stamped acceptance mark, with no other visible markings. The blade features a wide crossguard which transitions into a hilt consisting of a magnetic steel tang with a two-piece wooden handle grip, the components of which are fastened in place with three magnetic metal rivets. Accompanying the knife is its original scabbard, constructed of a black painted magnetic metal shaft with a tight integral clip to lock onto the wearer’s field boots (or other part of uniform as desired). The throat retains a functional catch to firmly hold the knife in place during storage. Minor issues consistent with age and field use are evident, and include some running marks to the blade and scratching of scabbard paint. This superb combat knife, most commonly issued to Luftwaffe personnel, remains in an extremely fine condition.