Germany, Imperial. A Trench Knife for Close Combat, by Clemen & Jung

(Kampfmesser sogenannt Grabendolch). A well-preserved trench knife, measuring 28.5 cm in total length when inserted into the scabbard. It features a 14.5 cm-long, nickel-plated, magnetic steel blade which retains factory-original sharpening to both the edges and tip. The reverse ricasso is maker marked with the logo of Clemen & Jung, Solingen. The blade features a wide crossguard which transitions into a hilt consisting of a magnetic metal tang with a handle grip formed by two pieces of ribbed dark brown wood, fastened in place with three magnetic metal rivets. Accompanying the knife is its original scabbard, constructed of a black painted magnetic metal shaft, with the remnants of a blackened leather strap riveted to the back. A functional catch situated within the throat firmly holds the knife in place during storage. Issues consistent with age and field use are evident, and include running marks to the blade, scratching to the handle, loss of scabbard paint resulting in some surface oxidation, and extensive fatigue to the strap. This battle-worn close combat knife remains in a very fine condition.