Germany, RAD. A Hewer for Enlisted Ranks and NCOs, by Carl Eickhorn

(Reichsarbeitsdienst Hauer für Mannschaften und Unterführer). A very well-preserved Reichsarbeitsdienst (Reich Labour Service/RAD) hewer for Enlisted ranks and NCOs, measuring 39.5 cm in total length when inserted into the scabbard. It features a 24.5 cm-long, nickel-plated, magnetic steel blade with a gentle curvature culminating in a sharpened tip and lower edge, and with narrow fullers set into the top edge of both sides. The obverse of the blade bears an acid-etched inscription of “ARBEIT ADELT” (“LABOUR ENNOBLES”), while the reverse ricasso bears a maker’s mark of “ORIGINAL EICKHORN, SOLINGEN”, circumscribing the firm’s classic logo of a squirrel clutching a sword. The blade sits securely within a one-piece, nickel-plated, magnetic metal hilt with a hooked quillon and pommel. Two pieces of polished and lacquered staghorn compose the handle grip, and are secured in place with dual magnetic metal rivets. It is accompanied by its original scabbard, constructed of a black-painted magnetic metal shaft, with additional metal fixtures riveted to the tip and throat. The tip displays double-sided engraved RAD insignia, while the throat fixture bears ribbed knotted patterns. Emanating from the throat is a loop for the accommodation of a hanger. Minor issues consistent with age and wear are evident, and include moderate tarnishing to the blade, some loss of finish to the nickel-plated features, and minor scratching of the scabbard paint. The hewer remains in a near extremely fine condition.