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

(Reichsarbeitsdienst Hauer M34 für Mannschaften und Unterführer). A Reichsarbeitsdienst (Reich Labour Service/RAD) M34 Subordinate’s Hewer, measuring 39.5 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 factory-original sharpening to the tip and lower edge. A narrow fuller runs the majority of the upper edge of each side. The obverse bears an acid-etched inscription of “ARBEIT ADELT” (“LABOUR ENNOBLES”) in toned Fraktur script. The reverse ricasso bears a maker’s mark of “CARL JULIUS KREBS, SOLINGEN”, circumscribing the firm’s classic monogram logo. The maker’s mark is topped by an additional 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 place with dual magnetic metal rivets. Accompanying the Hewer is its original scabbard, constructed of a black anodized magnetic steel shaft with nickel-plated magnetic steel 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,a portion of which is included and constructed of blackened leather with its buckle and metal fixtures missing, 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 running marks to the blade, loss of nickel plating to the hilt and scabbard fixtures, and significant fatigue to the hanger. This untouched example remains in an overall better than very fine condition.