Germany, RAD. An M34 Subordinate’s Hewer, by Carl Eickhorn

(Reichsarbeitsdienst Hauer M34 für Mannschaften und Unterführer). A Reichsarbeitsdienst (Reich Labour Service/RAD) M34 Subordinate’s Hewer, measuring 40 cm in total length when inserted into the scabbard. It features a 24.5 cm-long, nickel-plated, magnetic steel, Bowie-style blade which retains some factory-original sharpening to the tip and lower edge. A narrow fuller runs the majority of the upper edge of each side. The reverse ricasso is maker marked with the classic squirrel logo of the firm of Carl Eickhorn, Solingen. The maker’s mark is topped by a Reichsleitung des Reichsarbeitsdienstes (RLAD) logo. The blade sits securely within a nickel-plated magnetic steel hilt featuring a ribbed crossguard with a hooked quillon, and with an additional hooked pommel which facilitates a secure grip. The handle is composed of two pieces of polished staghorn fixed in position with dual magnetic metal rivets. Hand-etched onto the obverse of the hilt are presumed owner initials of “RS”. Accompanying the Hewer is its original scabbard, constructed of a black enameled shaft with nickel-plated non-magnetic metal fixtures secured to both the tip and throat, bearing etched RAD insignia and trefoil designs, respectively. A loop emanating from the throat fixtures accommodates a hanger which has been lost to time, while a functional catch within the throat firmly holds the Hewer in place during storage. Some issues consistent with age and wear are evident, and include some blunting of the blade’s tip, with sporadic pitting and running marks (in addition to evidence of cleaning), a small chip to the obverse of the handle grip, and minor scratching throughout the plated fixtures. It remains in an overall very fine condition.