The Hunting and Forestry organizations under the German monarchy were often controlled by aristocrats and well-heeled businessman. They were generally not organizations habituated by the common man. The purposes were generally formed for the conservation of game and forestry. Elaborate hunts were great occasions for the well-heeled, while the ladies used the hunting lodges for match-making and gossip. The cutlasses of these Imperial organizations were often extremely ornate, or they could also be utilitarian, made to perform the final killing thrust on game. Both types were often owned by a single individual. Many examples were used strictly for dressing up the beauty of a hunting/forestry uniform.

The German Hunting Association (Deutsche Jägerschaft) was headed by Reich Hunting Master Hermann Göring. The organization was formed to enforce the hunting regulations surrounding the advancement of conservation. The organization was a "must" for Germans interested in advancing their careers in business or the NSDAP. The Hunting Association was much like a country club membership today. The cutlasses worn by the organization were often quite elaborate. The hilt was silver with a stag grip. The scabbards were composed of green leather shells with silvered mounts. The cutlass blades were usually etched with hunting scenes. The insignia of the organization - a stag with a swastika between its antlers and the initials DJ - graced the grip of the cutlass.

The German Rifle Association was one of the last organizations to be nationalized by the NSDAP. The organization consisted of many shooting and target clubs positioned throughout the Reich, some centuries old. Members were all volunteers. The cutlass was a long example. It consisted of nickel plated hilt fittings with clamshell having the insignia of the organization - essentially a target within a rounded disk having black enameled organization name. The grip was an off-white, celluloid-over-wood affair. The scabbard was black leather with nickeled mounts. The long blade was double-etched, featuring forestry/hunting scenes and usually a target somewhere in the motif.

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1.  CUTLASS #33657 Imperial Gala Hunting Shortsword - Bormann, München

   This Gala Hunting Shortsword is a magnificent looking piece. The shortsword overall is 30 inches in length. The exact piece is pictured on page 306 of the Johnson-Wittmann Imperial book. This hunting shortsword is trimmed in very elaborate gilded brass mounts. The pommel features the umbrella-like cap with flutes which run out from the center. In the center is a boss which is peened over to retain the tang. The edges of the pommel are hand engraved with a staggered line design. The hilt is equipped with two side spines, each of which has raised floral designs. The ferule has a series of four evenly placed ribs detailed with indentations. The cross guard mount below is a rectangular shape having a plain style diamond in the center which encompasses the length of the rectangle. The open areas have all been hand peened on both sides. The cross guard arms are heavily decorated with raised out oak leaves and each terminate with upward pointing acorn with checkered caps on the left side and a downward pointing acorn on the right side. The grip plates are fashioned from fine ebony wood. This ebony wood is vertically ribbed on both sides and in the center of each side, there are three gilded bosses. These bosses are in the form of a round flower. Below the cross guard is a beautiful clam shell which is bordered with oak leave and acorns, and in the center there is a large stag head which is positioned over a crossed rifle and cutlass which are positioned over a hunting horn. Sprigs of oak leaves surround the beautiful design. The lower portion of the hilt has a cap like device which secures over the scabbard upper mount. This cap has the exact same hand done line designs as appear on the edge of the pommel. A most beautiful superbly designed hilt!

   The long scabbard has a shell which is probably a wood base covered with black leather. The leather is still in nice condition being sewn up the rear and having a fine sheen throughout the surfaces. The scabbard shell has three extremely elaborate gilded brass mounts. The upper mount duplicates the design around the pommel edges and lower cap. The area below is flared outward to accommodate a skinner. There is a skinner in place, however it is a replacement. This skinner is an old example having a full ebony wood grip with a boss very much resembling those of the grip. The blade of the skinner is single-edged and is in good condition being just slightly gray with no etching. The lug on the face of the upper mount has floral designs and is in the shape of a shield. These floral designs continue along the surfaces of the upper mount having a pebbled background. The reverse of this mount has more floral designs and it is plain on the bottom area where it is shaped with scallop edges. Stamped into the plain surface is the maker mark and location “Bormann München”. The center mount is plain on the reverse with a lined border design. It too has scalloped edges. The obverse of the center mount though has more elaborate hunting features displaying a boar’s head within a hunting horn. Other decorations include a trumpet in the background of the design and the plain areas are pebbled. The lower mount is also plain on the back with a band of raised floral designs. The obverse upper area above the band features a raised hunting horn over crossed spears with acorn sprigs in the background and pebbling. The lower portion of the mount features raised symbols of a canon crossed over a trumpet and cutlass. Above these is an additional hunting horn position over a game bag. At the chape portion of the mount is an acanthus style leaf. I can’t really explain how beautiful these designs are but hopefully the photographs which accompany this piece will do a proper job for me. These mounts are apparently glued into place as I see no other hardware that retains them.

   The long blade of this cutlass is about 23-1/2 inches. It is a polished style blade featuring a very large fuller area with single edge. About two-thirds of the blade on both sides are covered with a beautiful deep blue background. The blue still has its original rich deep color to its backgrounds. Raised out of the blue in five places on each side are gilded designs. The designs are of a floral nature on the two upper obverse examples, as well as the two lower obverse examples. In the center area is a small tree over a leaping rabbit. On the reverse, one floral design appears at the upper which is positioned over a game bag with crossed rifles and hunting horn. Below is a small tree with a leaping pointer dog. The two images at the ricasso are both floral in nature and at the bottom depiction lightly engraved is the word “Solingen”. As we would expect, Bormann is apparently a fancy hunting shop located in Munich and they ordered this superb hunting instrument from one of the blade companies located in Solingen. If you are looking for a beautiful addition to your hunting forestry collection or perhaps a featured piece to show in the middle of an assembly of cutlasses, I can’t imagine that there is a better looking artifact available these days. A great item to marvel over for years t come, and I’m sure it will provide much pleasure for you and your collecting friends.

   Excellent Plus, Plus. $2,495.00

2.  CUTLASS #33639c Deluxe Short Forestry Cutlass - Carl Eickhorn

   This Deluxe Short Forestry Cutlass is the top of the line ordered from the Eickhorn firm. It was their model number “1713”. The cutlass hilt is an aluminum base having fine gilded finish. In the case of this example the gilding is still just about 100% showing little wear. The “D” guard is quite elaborate on this deluxe model. It features at the top and bottom a deer hoof design having fine hand enhanced hair throughout the depiction. The center area as well as the cross guard area feature overlapping acorn leaves with mixed acorns. The cross guard passes through the center area with a downward plunge to the hoof design. The ferule area has raised overlapping oak leaves in the center with lined decoration on either side. Below the cross guard is a fine clam shell device which has the depiction of a raised out game bird. This bird is tweeting while standing on a branch of an oak tree. The detail throughout the feathering, eye, beak and feet is outstanding. The grip plates of this example are genuine ivory. The obverse plate has very beautiful green and gold toning running throughout the surfaces. The reverse is also slightly golden toned but not as dramatic as the obverse. Both of these grip plates are decorated with acorns having dual leaves above the nut. The gilded finish to the acorn is still visible in the recesses but for the most part the surfaces are worn to the copper base. A very fine hilt here!

   The scabbard shell is of black leather being decorated with twin accent lines running the length of both sides. The leather is sewn up the rear. The leather shows a little bit of nominal age but nothing that would not come out perfect if a little black Meltonian shoe cream was used on the surfaces. The scabbard shell is fitted with brass based gilded mounts. These mounts have an elaborate scalloped edge where they meet the shell. The upper mount is fitted with an acorn style lug. The cap of the acorn is nicely hand enhanced. The obverse of the lower mount features a panel which displays a baying stag with his head upward. The stag is positioned in a forest glen and is standing next to a fallen tree. A very beautiful highly familiar Eickhorn design. At the bottom is a chape which features beading running all the way around the circumference. The front of the mount is in perfect condition whereas the reverse shows just a little bit of carrying usage but no real dings. The upper mount is also equipped with an original-to-the-piece frog. This frog is showing some wear but is still intact being the style with “V” notch which catches under the lug. There is a closed box clip at the top. The short style triple etched blade is also a fine example.

   This blade depicts on the obverse the common scene of a kneeled hunter aiming his rifle at a scattering stag and doe. The two animals are jumping over a fallen tree as they run through the forest. The backgrounds have 100% of their original contrasting gray. The reverse etch depicts a hunter running with a rifle in his left hand and a cutlass in his right. His dogs are running in front of him trying to tackle a very angry looking wild boar. It is doubtful that the dogs are winning this battle as there are dogs feet and tails flying all over the place. Like the obverse, this blade side is also has 100% of the gray background. This blade is in almost near full mint condition. The upper spine features oak leaves and acorns and also has the raised out name of the of the popular Eickhorn distributor “W. Michovius Cottbus”. Apparently, Eickhorn had a fine relationship with this firm as many times we see cutlasses having this distributor’s name. It is also a great security blanket to see this as to date, no Eickhorn blades have been reproduced having this distributor name. The reverse ricasso is deeply stamped with the 1935-41 trademark. It consists of a seated squirrel holding a downward pointing sword and the word “Original” above and below the name and location of the firm “Eickhorn Solingen”. The original green felt buffer is in place. If you are looking for an original forestry cutlass showing just a little bit of carrying time, this example is for you. These cutlasses are most beautiful and if you like combinations of ivory, gold and leather (and who doesn’t?) I’m sure that you’ll enjoy putting this cutlass up on your wall.

   Excellent Plus. $1,995.00

3.  CUTLASS #33638C Deluxe Short Forestry Cutlass - Carl Eickhorn

   This Deluxe Short Forestry Cutlass is the top of the line ordered from the Eickhorn firm. It was their model number “1713”. The cutlass hilt is an aluminum base having fine gilded finish. In the case of this example the gilding is still just about 100% showing little wear. The “D” guard is quite elaborate on this deluxe model. It features at the top and bottom a deer hoof design having fine hand enhanced hair throughout the depiction. The center area as well as the cross guard area feature overlapping acorn leaves with mixed acorns. The cross guard passes through the center area with a downward plunge to the hoof design. The ferule area has raised overlapping oak leaves in the center with lined decoration on either side. Below the cross guard is a fine clam shell device which has the depiction of a raised out game bird. This bird is tweeting while standing on a branch of an oak tree. The detail throughout the feathering, eye, beak and feet is outstanding. The grip plates of this example are genuine ivory. The obverse plate has very beautiful green and gold toning running throughout the surfaces. The reverse is also slightly golden toned but not as dramatic as the obverse. Both of these grip plates are decorated with acorns having dual leaves above the nut. The gilded finish to the acorn is still visible in the recesses but for the most part the surfaces are worn to the copper base. A very fine hilt here!

   The scabbard shell is of black leather being decorated with twin accent lines running the length of both sides. The leather is sewn up the rear. The leather shows a little bit of nominal age but nothing that would not come out perfect if a little black Meltonian shoe cream was used on the surfaces. The scabbard shell is fitted with brass based gilded mounts. These mounts have an elaborate scalloped edge where they meet the shell. The upper mount is fitted with an acorn style lug. The cap of the acorn is nicely hand enhanced. The obverse of the lower mount features a panel which displays a baying stag with his head upward. The stag is positioned in a forest glen and is standing next to a fallen tree. A very beautiful highly familiar Eickhorn design. At the bottom is a chape which features beading running all the way around the circumference. The front of the mount is in perfect condition whereas the reverse shows just a little bit of carrying usage but no real dings.

   The upper mount is also equipped with an original-to-the-piece frog. This frog is showing some wear but is still intact being the style with “V” notch which catches under the lug. There is a closed box clip at the top. The short style triple etched blade is also a fine example. This blade depicts on the obverse the common scene of a kneeled hunter aiming his rifle at a scattering stag and doe. The two animals are jumping over a fallen tree as they run through the forest. The backgrounds have 100% of their original contrasting gray. The reverse etch depicts a hunter running with a rifle in his left hand and a cutlass in his right. His dogs are running in front of him trying to tackle a very angry looking wild boar. It is doubtful that the dogs are winning this battle as there are dogs feet and tails flying all over the place. Like the obverse, this blade side is also has 100% of the gray background. This blade is in almost near full mint condition. The upper spine features oak leaves and acorns and also has the raised out name of the of the popular Eickhorn distributor “W. Michovius Cottbus”. Apparently, Eickhorn had a fine relationship with this firm as many times we see cutlasses having this distributor’s name. It is also a great security blanket to see this as to date, no Eickhorn blades have been reproduced having this distributor name. The reverse ricasso is deeply stamped with the 1935-41 trademark. It consists of a seated squirrel holding a downward pointing sword and the word “Original” above and below the name and location of the firm “Eickhorn Solingen”. The original green felt buffer is in place. If you are looking for an original forestry cutlass showing just a little bit of carrying time, this example is for you. These cutlasses are most beautiful and if you like combinations of ivory, gold and leather (and who doesn’t?) I’m sure that you’ll enjoy putting this cutlass up on your wall.

   Excellent Plus. $1,995.00

4.  CUTLASS #33640C Austrian Forestry Cutlass

   This very elegant and large-sized Forestry Cutlass is Austrian, and probably comes from the Imperial time stretching into the Weimar period. The cutlass nearly identical to the piece that is shown on Page 307 of the Johnson Wittmann Imperial book. This massive piece measures about 23” overall. The hilt is very elegant, having the conventional “D” guard at the left. The hilt is all of gilded brass having approximately 85% of the original gilt still intact. The D guard has raised oak leaf and acorn motif with pebble patterns on the plain areas. The D guard continues through to the cross guard area where on the obverse it features additional acorns and oak leaves. The reverse cross guard area is plain. At the right of the center cross guard is a quillon arm which bends downward being in the shape of a deer’s hoof and having matching pebbled panels. The hilt side plates are elegantly rendered with raised lined pebble designs which run around both sides and the pommel top area. The edges of the front and back straps have a serrated motif. The center areas of the hilt are enclosed with beautiful genuine ivory grip plates. These plates are in absolute perfect condition having very pleasing golden grains, the reverse being darker than the obverse. Decorating both sides of the plates are rounded boss mounts. These boss mounts have some peening to their surfaces to give them a little more interest. Wrapped about the hilt of the cutlass is a very choice forestry portepee. This portepee is of gold textured bullion having a line of green running the length of both edges. The slide and stem are round type, having the designs and the bottom ball is the larger type seen during the Weimar and Imperial periods. This ball is of bullion yarn-like material having a gold stuffing of bullion thread. The knot is in choice condition throughout having no fraying. Below the center block is an oak leaf and laurel leaf decorated clam shell. In the center is an oval and there are two holes which at one time would have contained the double head eagle symbolic of Austria. Since this symbol was applied, someone must have taken it out either after the war or at some time during the life of this cutlass. The scabbard shell appears to be made of the leather covered wood base. The black leather is in perfect condition throughout and still in a new-like state. This leather is decorated with twin accent lines which run the length of both sides on each edge. The scabbard mounts are highly decorated with raised out floral patterns on the upper and lower areas and in the center are hunting implements such as a crossed rifle, cutlass, hunting horn and game bag. At the lower are featured crossed swords, lance and hunting horn. The reverse of these mounts are plain gilded brass. There is a carrying lug on the top mount and it is in the form of an oak leave situated over an acorn. The 16” double etched blade is a beauty. This blade is in near mint condition having fine frosted backgrounds which highlight the hunting motif etch. It is interesting as the etch continues with fire-like designs which continue almost to the tip. The obverse etch quite beautiful showing a forest and hunting lodge scene with mountains in the background. There are hunting dogs and two stags which walk along the forefront of the etch. The etch is quite detailed and comparable to the German types. The reverse blades show the mountains and forests with a stag leading two doe. There is no etching on the spine. The ricasso appears to have the original owner’s monogram engraved in a very fancy manner “FH”. The original green felt blade buffer is in place showing only minor age. A remarkable cutlass here that could easily be the centerpiece of a hunting forestry collection.

   Excellent Plus, Plus. $2,495.00

5.  CUTLASS #33637c Imperial Hirschfanger - J. Saukreiter, Frankfurt a./M.

   This Imperial Hirschfanger is most beautiful having dark blued mounts throughout. These mounts are of the conventional design. The pommel cap has the fluted style flared out lines and in the center is a device which acts as a tang nut. Along the edges of the pommel cap there are twin engraved lines. The ferule below matches the design having twin raised out lines around the circumference. The standard cross guard is plain in the center with hoof-like quillon arms, the left going upward and the right tipped downward. These dark mounts really set off a most beautiful antique stag grip. This stag has turned an enticing chocolate brown color being even darker in the depths and having a slight golden tone in the raised grain areas. The stag was chosen for its dimension and the cap and ferule almost fit with little cutting. A very fine hilt here! The scabbard shell is also very beautiful being made of a brown textured grained pig skin. It is in perfect condition showing a little mild age but no trouble on the surfaces. The shell is equipped with the raised area to accommodate a skinning knife. The mounts match the hilt exactly and they are style with the scalloped edges where they meet the shell. The mounts are retained by staples and the number “11” is clearly visible. The upper obverse is equipped with a plain acorn carrying lug and lower mount has dual engraved lines. There is a skinner in the slot. However, I do not believe the skinner is original to this Hirschfanger. It does appear to be an old skinner however and has stag grip plates on both sides. The stag plates look as though years ago they were trimmed slightly in order to fit the slot. The blade of this skinner is in perfect condition being plain polished steel type. The 14” blade is a fantastic example, still being in fine bright mint condition. This blade is triple etched. The obverse etch features the perpendicular placed hunter with shotgun resting in his arms and a pointing dog at his feet. The upper areas have a combination of hunting horn and crossed rifles with game bag and further up a nice oval design featuring a doe grazing below a tree. On the opposite side there is a perpendicular placed stag looking directly at the viewer and he is keeping track of a doe laying below him. Further up is a game bag with hunting horn and cutlass, and the panel ends with a great looking satyr, a mythological half-man half-goat creature with horns on his head and beard blowing a hunting horn. Great stuff here! The spine is also nicely done having oak leaves running down most of it and at the beginning area is the name of the company that distributed this “J. Saukreiter, Frankfurt a./M.” Looking further, we see that this piece was in fact produced by WKC. This mint blade has been protected by the in place off-red felt buffer. This buffer shows a little mild wear but 95% of it is still all there. This is a great looking Hirschfanger coming from rarely seen distributor and having lots of fine attractive qualities.

   Excellent Plus, Plus. $1,495.00

6.  CUTLASS #33619 National Rifle Association Cutlass

   This National Rifle Association Cutlass is produced of the standard light-weight hilt fittings having excellent nickel plating. The nickel has a nice even patina throughout and does not look to have been cleaned in many years. The pommel is the style with the umbrella like fluting which goes outward around the top. There is a screw device which acts to retain the tang. The screw looks to have been out maybe once. The sides of this pommel cap are unadorned. The ferule nicely matches having several line decorations running around its circumference. The cross guard below is plain in the center areas with rounded quillon arms going outward and upward at the left and downward at the right. The quillon ends are decorated with acorn nuts. The caps appear to have hand engraving. Below the cross guard is a clam shell. The clam shell is the standard shooting type having pebbled surfaces and a raised wreath of oak leaves at the left and laurel leaves and berries at the right. At the center, there is the applied shooting insignia. It is fairly worn and is down to the copper base with black enamel letters signifying the organization and target like black bird with white enamel belly. The lettering is “DEUTSCHER SCHUTZEN VERBAND”. The words are separated by black enamel swastikas. This insignia is retained by two prongs which are folded over on the reverse. The grip of this example is the typical carved wood base having vertically lined ribs running the length. The celluloid is slightly lighter white tone on the obverse and is a deeper ivory color on the reverse. The grip has the usual crack which runs around the circumference but there is no material missing. These grips easily cracked because the carved wood base shrunk after drying out over the years causing an eggshell like environment for the celluloid. The center area has an applied set of target rifles being a gilded surface showing some slight wear. Wrapped about the ferule is an original shooting cutlass Third Reich period knot. This knot appears original to this piece showing usage and age but there is no fraying to the strapping. The green slide and stem are the silk type and there is a little bit of fray to the reverse of this slide. Just a tad of the upper portion of the stem has wear. The lower round shaped ball has yarn like green covering and the insert matches the strapping. The scabbard shell is a black leather having twin lines decoration the edges of both sides. The leather is sewn up the rear. The leather shows little age and is still in very choice condition. The upper and lower mounts match the patina of the hilt. These mounts have scalloped edges where they meet the shell and they are retained by staples in the usual manner. There is a number stamped beneath each of the staples. The upper mount is fitted with an oval shaped carrying lug. The long blade is about 15-1/2” in length. The blade is in a matte style finish and remains in choice condition being double etched. The blade has excellent frosted backgrounds highlighting the etches. The obverse etch portrays a target with crossed rifles near the ricasso and further down there are dogs sniffing around, one having a rabbit in his mouth. The etch ends in a floral design. The reverse etch features a game bag with crossed rifles and cutlass, and further down shows a stag jumping over a fence in a forest glen. The end is finished with floral devices, the same as the obverse. It is always interesting to note on these shooting cutlass blades that they have a difference in the graining shortly after the ricasso area. It appears as though the blades were too long to fit into the machines that were used to apply the final finish so had to be done separately at the ricasso area. This change in grain is a good sign for judging authenticity of a rifle association blade. As is normally the case, the spine is not etched. Though this blade is unmarked, it is really a fine example. The green felt buffer is in place showing only mild age and still in perfect condition. This is a difficult-to-find original National Rifle Association cutlass.

   Excellent Plus, Plus. $2,395.00

7. CUTLASS #33495C Luftwaffe Forestry Bayonet - Waffen-Loesche, Berlin

   This Luftwaffe Forestry Bayonet shows some mild hand wear to its full-stag grip plates. These grip plates are masterfully cut and fitted. They have a fine grain with pleasing tan and brown tones. These grip plates are retained by three screws with spanners. The spanners are located on the reverse. The screws show some signs of being out once or twice. The crossguard is an ellipse shaped piece of steel. It has been blue toned to match the hilt back strap. This particular piece is stamped “206” on the obverse crossguard. The scabbard is nice and straight and has excellent original black paint. This paint shows some usage signs, and on the reverse it is about 98% and on the obverse perhaps 95%. The scabbard is equipped with a dark brown frog that is in nice condition. The blade of this example is still bright throughout. It is 8 inches long and is a stepped variety, having narrow fuller. The blade shows some of the original crossgraining still in the surfaces and easily grades at excellent plus condition. This blade is maker marked on the reverse where it is stamped “Ch. A. W.”. This stamping represents the Chromolit firm who made these Luftwaffe bayonets. On the reverse is the distributor stamping “Waffen – Loesche/Berlin”. On the blade spine is stamped a capital letter “H”. We feel that this letter represents the Hildesheim Luftwaffe Base. The bayonet brown blade washer is in place and in fine condition. A very difficult-to-find example here in good collectable condition.

   Excellent Plus. $1,495.00 (#122011)

8. CUTLASS #33243 Imperial Hunting/Forestry Cutlass - WKC

   This cutlass appears to be a standard hunting type variety, but it has a Senior Forestry portepee as well as the forestry shoulder board insignia attached with it, so apparently, it saw action not only during the Imperial Period but probably the Weimar and the 3rd Reich Period. This beautiful cutlass is slightly wider proportioned than the examples we see produced during the 3rd Reich. The hilt is a very fine silver fitted example. It has the traditional mounts with a pommel showing lined edges with a fluted flat surface, and an acorn that acts as a tang nut on the top. The crossguard is plain in the center and has quillons that reflect deer’s hoofs running outward. The left side points upward and the right side points downward. The hair of the deer’s legs is hand accented and very well done. Below the crossguard is a clamshell device, having beautiful fluted surfaces. The grip of this example is an extremely fine piece of stag. It curves gently to the left and, obviously, was hand picked for its dimensions as it almost exactly fits the pommel and crossguard opening areas. This stag has a deep antique look to its depths with lighter colors on the top grains. It is a very beautiful handle! The wider-than-norm scabbard shell is made of black leather. This leather is in very good condition, being sewn up the rear and having decorative twin lines on each of the edge sides. The scabbard is equipped with silvered mounts. The lower mount is decorated with twin lines, and the upper mount is equipped with a lug in the form of an acorn. The original frog is still on this scabbard. The frog shows quite a bit of age and usage, but with a little bit of leather polish it should come up quite well. This frog is the style with “V” notch that slips under the acorn, and at the top it has a closed box clip which appears to be made of brass. Attached to the box clip with a wire is a set of Forester’s shoulder boards. These boards are of deep green color with velvet pile beneath. Each board has two silvered acorns attached to it. Wrapped about the hilt is a Senior Forester’s portepee. This portepee is a gold bullion with twin green lines that run down the edges. The lower portion of the knot is slightly frayed in the area at the slide and a little bit at the top of the stem. The stem is a crochet-like type bullion material covering flat metal below. The acorn shaped ball is of gold colored bullion with the stuffing of green thread. The blade, though, has to be the best part of this cutlass. This blade is wider than normal and it measures just about 13 inches in length. The blade is bright and beautiful and easily grades in near mint condition. The etches are really crisp and dynamic. Each blade side has four separate etches which are surrounded by floral ends. On the obverse the blade depicts panels of a wild boar with dog, a stag running through a forest glen, two dogs sniffing after prey, and lastly a resting stag. The reverse blade shows a stag laying down in the forest, a doe resting under a tree, two dogs after prey, and a doe sipping from a water source. The spine has nice floral etchings. An extremely beautiful blade here in near full mint condition. The obverse ricasso is stamped with the turn-of-the-century trademark consisting of the king and knight with the firm’s initials below, “W.K. & C.”. The original red felt buffer is in place. These accoutrements that grace this hunting cutlass are original to this piece and were brought back in its entirety. This Forester Official Cutlass for all three periods of time. Just imagine the number of affairs and hunts that this cutlass bore witness to. This cutlass has to give the next owner a great feeling of what the hunt was like!

   Excellent Plus, Plus. $1,195.00

9. CUTLASS #33030 Model 1059 Forestry Cutlass - Carl Eickhorn

   This Forestry Cutlass is the Model No.1059, featuring ivory grip plates. The hilt of this example is composed of cast aluminum base metal. All of the gilded surfaces remain across the hilt, making for a very attractive piece. The “P” guard features a series of floral motifs on both sides, and continues through the crossguard area with oak leaves and acorns, ending in a quillon in the shape of a deer’s hoof. The ferrule is always most interesting on this model as the obverse features the same squirrel that was used by the Carl Eickhorn for their 1935 through 1941 logo. This squirrel is seated with his tail upright and curled at the top, and instead of holding a sword he appears to be either eating some type of a vegetable or holding something straight. It is hard to tell here exactly, but the motif is the same as the logo. On the reverse ferrule there is a doe jumping through a forestry glen. The clamshell depicts a large stag with full rack, having his head down ready to charge. This stag is positioned in a forestry scene, and the left side of the clamshell has an upward pointing quillon which curves on the end. The grip plates of this example are made of a fine carved ivory. This ivory shows some subtle graining on both sides and has turned slightly gold, but not much. This is a sign that this cutlass has been nicely stored over the years. These grip plates are in totally perfect condition. They are decorated with three acorns with leaves at the top. All three acorns are original to the piece, and also have their original gilded surfaces. There is forestry knot which is tied to the “D” guard. This knot shows a little bit of fray from swinging but, overall, it is still in serviceable condition. The knot is composed of aluminum bullion that is decorated with twin green lines running the length. There is a slide of bullion and green color, and the stem is the flat variety that has aluminum bullion installed over a flat metal tab. The ovalled acorn at the bottom is aluminum yarn-like bullion, and the stuffing is a green thread material. This knot is original to this piece. The scabbard shell is composed of good black leather, showing only mild usage. This leather is still good and supple and no signs of any rotting or trouble. The leather is decorated with twin black lines on the edges of both sides. The scabbard mounts are the steel base type, but for a change all of the original gilded surfaces are there. Many times with cutlasses coming from this later period, the gilding comes off of the steel base. This is another sign that this Forestry Cutlass has been very well stored over all these years. The scabbard mounts have the usual scalloped edge where they meet the leather, and they are retained by staples in the reverse of both fittings. The obverse is fitted with a lug in the shape of a fine acorn, and the lower mount is decorated with two sets of twin lines with a standard chape button at the bottom. As we would expect, the triple etched blade is in very fine condition, easily rating in near full mint. This blade bears the well-known distributors name on the spine, “W.Michovius Cottbus”. The Michovius Company, based in the city of Cottbus, sold a lot of Eickhorn pieces, thus their name was etched on the spine to give them their just due. The blade obverse depicts the scene of a hunter kneeling, aiming a rifle, shooting at a stag and doe jumping over a tree. The etch ends with a game bird “tweeting” on a branch. The opposite side has the well-known scene of the hunter chasing a large boar, holding a rifle and cutlass, while his dogs make a good attempt at pulling the boar down. There is a humming bird-like creature at the end of the etch. The reverse ricasso is stamped with the 1935 through 1941 squirrel logo. This squirrel holds a downward pointing sword while seated. Above the animal is the word “original”, and below the name of the firm and location, “Eickhorn, Solingen”. The original green felt blade buffer is in place, showing only modest wear or age. A very fine cutlass here, in first-rate condition.

   Near Mint. $1,795.00

10. CUTLASS #32907 Imperial Shooting Cutlass - Carl Eickhorn

    This Imperial Shooting Cutlass is in “as found” condition, and has not been cleaned for a century by the looks of it. This cutlass is listed in the Eickhorn Imperial catalogue as Model No. 227. The mounts throughout the cutlass are a fine brass. The pommel has a fluted top and the tang comes through and is peened over. It is interesting to note there is a small eyelet at the left side of the pommel that accommodates a ring, which further accommodates the original portepee, which is still on this cutlass. The ferrule is a standard type, having four sets of twin lines as decoration. The crossguard has a smooth center area, and the left quillon is slightly upward ending in a deer hoof, and the right quillon goes downward with the same motif. The clamshell below is a standard fluted type. The grip of this example is a fine piece of stag which has very deeply toned over the years. Its very dark coffee coloring is quite pleasing, especially with some of the grains in the antler being of lighter color, contrasting nicely with the dark tones. The portepee is a gold bullion style, having line decoration running on the edges of both sides. Because of the deep patination, it is difficult to tell the color of the stripes, but I believe they are a black color. The stem and slide are bullion covered in a “V” design. The lower round ball has a bullion cap with matching yarn-like bullion covering below. The stuffing is a darker color thread done in the cat’s anus style. The scabbard shell is of black leather. Considering the age of this cutlass, the leather is all still quite good. It does show some age in the surfaces, but no kinks or problems. This leather is decorated with lines running on both edges of each side. It is still tightly sewn up the rear. The scabbard mounts are matching gilded brass. They, too, have lots of patination. They are arch shaped where they meet the leather. These mounts are retained by small style staples. The upper lug is a rather long type, which thins downward to a blunted tip. It is decorated with twin line construction. The lower scabbard mount is completely plain. This cutlass measures, overall, about 24 inches and it is the thinner style which, along with the length, doesn’t make a shooting style weapon. Collectors often confuse these Imperial shooting cutlasses with a hunting cutlass. This is easy to do, however, hunting cutlasses are always a thicker proportion. The double etched blade is about 19 inches long and it is equipped with a single edge and a false edge, running about a quarter of the way back at the spine. The etchings are somewhat thinned from all of the years, and there is also some age staining throughout the surfaces. I have not tried to clean the blade, but I’m sure with a little work this blade could come up somewhat. The etches feature standard motifs of crossed swords, drums, standartes, etc. The reverse languet is deeply stamped with the Imperial trademark of the Carl Eickhorn firm, consisting of two back-to-back squirrels. Beneath the animals are the initials of the firm, “CE”. The original red felt buffer is still in place, with a few nips and signs of age. Overall not a bad weapon here, and with a good cleaning could probably come up quite a bit.

    Excellent Minus. $395.00

11. CUTLASS #32802 National Rifle Association Cutlass - Carl Eickhorn

    This Shooting Cutlass is in extremely fine condition. It does have the usual crack around the grip but this is more or less a “given” with these daggers and as long as there is no material missing, it is quite acceptable. Other than this flaw, this cutlass is really in outstanding condition throughout. The pommel cap is the style having a fluted surface and then there is a screw at the top which acts as a tang nut. The edges of this pommel are dual lined for decoration. The nickel plated surfaces are perfect throughout. The ferrule is also lined with four engravings and it is tapered downward. The cross guard center block area and quill on arms are smooth and at the left side the arms go upward and at the right side the arms go downward with both ending in nicely decorated acorn quillons. The plating is also perfect on these mounts. The clamshell is a very fine example, having decorations of overlapping oak leaves and acorns on the left and laurel leaves with berries on the right. In the center is the applied insignia of this organization. It is a round medallion which features a black eagle in the center with a target on his breast area. Around the border of the medallion in black is written the name of the organization “DEUTSCHER SCHÜTZEN-VERBAND”. These words are separated by swastikas which are the only swastikas that appear on these cutlasses. This medallion is pinned into place as is the norm on Eickhorn cutlasses. The two pins are bent over on the reverse. The grip is a fine fluted celluloid over a carved wood base. The celluloid has turned a nice ivory-like color. As mentioned above, there is a crack in the celluloid which runs around the upper area but, fortunately, there is no material missing. This is a common occurrence, as the wood below the celluloid dries out and causes an eggshell-like situation. In the center of the grip is a set of crossed target rifles which are gilded. A very fine hilt here will full plated surfaces. This is unusual to see as the base metal is aluminum. The scabbard leather is also in very fine condition. It is of black color, having twin decorative lines on both sides and sewn up the rear. This leather only shows nominal age and is still nice and supple. The scabbard shell is fitted with an upper and lower mount. These two mounts have scalloped edges where they meet the leather and they are retained by staples in the reverse. The obverse upper mount is equipped with a round lug which acts to hold a frog. Unfortunately, there is no frog and these accouterments have to be amongst the rarest of all as they always seem to be missing. The blade of this example measures nearly 16” in length. It is a beauty though, being triple etched. The blade has a very fine etch with all background frosting intact. This blade is in full mint condition. The obverse etch consists of a floral section starting it out and then there is a target with shooting hat on the top and crossed rifles behind it. Ending the scene is a shooter aiming at a buck and a doe jumping over a log. There is more floraling after this. On the opposed side, the beginning area features the floral motif and then there is a scene in oak leaves consisting of a boar’s head over a hunting bag with cutlass, shotgun and hunting horn below. After this comes a hunting dog chasing a large stag over a fence. The panel is finished with more floral motif. The spine is etched with fine laurel raised figures. A really beautiful blade here. The reverse ricasso is stamped with the 1935-41 Eickhorn squirrel. This squirrel has a downward pointing sword and above the animal is the word “original.” Below is the firm’s name and location “Eickhorn Solingen”. The original green leather blade buffer is in place. If you are looking for a fine shooting cutlass, this example really fills the bill.

    Near Mint. $2,895.00

12. CUTLASS #32792 Imperial Hunting Cutlass - Clemen & Jung

    This Imperial Hunting Cutlass is a very substantial and quite long Hirschsfanger. The mounts are all silver plated and are quite attractive throughout. This cutlass is of a more massive design than most that we see. The pommel has the usual fluted top and the tang nut comes through a rounded portion and is peened over. The edge of the pommel is decorated with one raised out surface ring. The matching ferrule has an additional surface ring for decoration and appears to be connected to the cross guard below but is actually a separate piece. The cross guard is an interesting design having a round center block with quill on arms that are oval shaped and flat on the ends. The clamshell is the usual fluted type. This is a simple style design which forms a crucible look but it is extremely effective. The plating throughout these silvered pieces is 100%. The stag grip is an attractive example, as it is a uniform brown tone instead of the multi-toned type we usually see. The grip also is a consistent shape until after the halfway point where it emerges outward, beautifully fitting the pommel with little to no cutting necessary. A great looking hilt here! The scabbard is also a beauty, as it is a lighter color brown leather instead of the usual darker black that we see. This leather is really in outstanding condition throughout, showing little age. It is built with a pocket contained on the obverse which would have been for the securing of a skinning knife. As usual, the skinning knife is missing but this seems to be almost standard with Imperial hunting cutlasses. This fine brown scabbard leather is decorated with twin lines on both sides and is sewn up the rear. It is fitted with silver mounts which nicely match the hilt. The upper mount has the built in pocket feature with an acorn serving as a lug on the outside edge. This mount is decorated with twin accent lines. The lower mount also has twin accent lines and has a scallop design where it meets the scabbard leather. This mount is retained by a staple. The upper mount has no staple and is more than likely glued into place. The large blade of this cutlass is nearly 19” in length. It is a single edge type having a deep fuller at the top area and a false edge that runs about one-third backward at the top. This blade is still nice and bright, showing only the most minor of age. There are a couple of nicks in the surfaces but they are not bad and are not a deduct. The surfaces are etched on all three sides with hunting scenes. The obverse portrays a stag under a tree and then further on there is a hunting bag with hunting implements and a floral design at the top. The reverse blade portrays a dog eating some kind of grass under a tree and above them are floral images. The name “H Monderschein” is etched on the ricasso of one side and on the reverse side the ricasso is etched “Braunschneig”. This name and town was probably the retailer where this piece was purchased. The reverse ricasso is stamped with the crown over a shield having the letter “z” within. This, of course, represents the Clemen & Jung firm. The original green felt washer is still in place showing some age around the edges, but not bad. This would be a spectacular cutlass if the skinning knife was still with it. It would account for at least a $500.00 value. As it is though, it is still a very nice Imperial cutlass being a massive example measuring about 25” overall. A nice example here.

    Excellent Plus Plus. $995.00

13. CUTLASS #32793 Imperial Hunting Cutlass

    This Imperial Hirschsfanger is a brass fitted example with lots of nice features about it but since it was a weapon that was actually used, not just worn for decoration, its blade is more utilitarian than most that we see. This cutlass is about 19” in length. The pommel cap has the usual fluted lines that run out from the center and there is an acorn at the middle that acts as a tang nut. The sides of the pommel have twin accent lines and match those of the ferrule below. The cross guard is the plain center block type having a hoof design to the quillon that rises upward on the left and downward on the right. Below the cross guard is the fluted clamshell. These brass mounts all show minor wear but they are still in good condition. The grip is a nice example, being thinner at the bottom area and then flaring outward at the top. This grip sizing was chosen because it nicely fits the ferrule and pommel mounts. There is very little cutting here and this, of course, gives a nice effect to the looks of the hilt. The scabbard is a dark brown color and it shows only mild age, still being supple and serviceable. This scabbard is the type that has the pocket for a skinning knife. As is usually the case, the skinning knife has long gone to time. These mounts feature an acorn which acts as a lug at the upper, and the lower has an unusual scallop design that has a circular motif at the center area where it meets the scabbard shell. This mount is apparently glued into place, as I don’t see any other method of retaining it and the upper mount is held in place via a staple. A pretty nice outside here. The blade itself probably was etched at one time but the etching has long gone and the surfaces have been rendered void of any designs. The blade has been sharpened but the design is still there of a short ricasso with single edge and false edge which runs backward at the top about a third of the way. As stated above, this blade was meant for utilitarian purposes and was involved with the actual hunt and the kill of the animal. A good cutlass here just to put up on the wall for show as the outside is really nice.

    Excellent. $395.00

14. CUTLASS #32039C Senior Forestry Cutlass - Siegfried Wafffen

    This maker is very seldom seen on hunting and forestry cutlasses and those that are interested in these collectibles will realize that cutlasses with this maker are extremely rare and therefore desirable. This cutlass is also in top condition. The hilt is composed of fine chiseled heavy brass with near 100% fire gilt finish. The D-guard is filled with raised floral-style work ending in a deer hoof at the quillon. The ferrule is also very nicely done, appearing to have a dog on the obverse. Since there is an original-to-the-piece portepee set in place, I cannot tell exactly what the figure is on the reverse ferrule. There is no question, though, that these designs all have extra hand- enhancing and are quite beautiful. There is a clamshell below featuring a shorter rounded edge on the right side and an upward pointing quillon on the left side ending in a swirl. The depiction of the clamshell is an extremely well done stag, having much hand-enhancement throughout his antler rack, eyes, fur and legs. He appears to be running through a forest glen. These designs are very seldom seen due to the rarity of this maker. The grip plates are outstanding, genuine ivory. These plates have turned a fine golden color -more so on the obverse than reverse – and they also have nice graining appearing in the surfaces. The ivory grips are in perfect condition throughout and are complete with the three original acorns on each side. These acorns are the style with two leaves above and have fine enhancing to the checkered caps. Wrapped about the ferrule, the D-guard and the quillon end, is the original forestry troddel. This knot is composed of aluminum bullion having twin green lines running the length. The strapping is still in fine condition, showing only a little bit of staining on the reverse and the slightest signs of wear. The slide is made up of a woven green and aluminum bullion material and the stem is covered in aluminum bullion. The lower acorn-style ball is of yarn-like bullion thread with an insert of green thread. An extremely nice hilt here! The scabbard shell is a black leather-type sewn up the rear. It is decorated with twin-lined detail on each side. This leather is still in excellent condition, showing very little age and only the slightest of runner push-out. The scabbard shell is fitted with gilded brass, plain style mounts. The mounts have scalloped edges where they meet the leather shell and are both retained with staples in the reverse, having a number visible beneath. The lug on the upper mount is fitted with a fine, extra-chiseled, acorn. The lower mount has two sets of twin-lined decoration and ends in a plain button style cap. The blade of this example is triple-etched and is about as nice as you will see. It is done in a matte style finish. The etching is extremely precise and crisp. This blade is in full mint condition. The obverse etch starts out with a diamond figure around the head of a stag. Next comes a pointer dog sniffing at a couple of foxes who are also sniffing around a log. The panel ends with a capercaille bird tweeting. The reverse etch pictures another antler in a diamond at the ricasso area; then comes a stag chasing three doe jumping in a forest glen and also ends with an additional capercaille. Beautiful etch here! The spine is etched with laurel leaves. The reverse ricasso has the large Siegfried Waffen figure. This etch in between has an arch shape containing the details of the E. Pack firm. Inside is the hammering figure of Siegfried. The original green felt washer is in place. If you are looking for a superior conditioned cutlass, produced by a rarely seen maker, you will be pleased with this example.

    Near Mint. $3,395.00

15. CUTLASS #32043C National Rifle Association Cutlass – Carl Eickhorn

    This National Rifle Association Cutlass is a long weapon, measuring overall about 22 ½ inches. It is also lightweight as the hilt mounts are an aluminum base material, being nickel-plated. The pommel cap has a fluted top with a screw device that also acts as a tang nut. The edges of the pommel are decorated with twin lines running around the circumference. This motif is followed on the ferrule below. The ferrule has four decorative lines. The crossguard has a plain center area and there are quillons going upward at the left and downward at the right, ending in the shape of well-formed acorns. Below the crossguard is a clamshell. This clamshell has a wreath decoration of oak leaves on the left and laurel leaves on the right. In the center is a copper colored button, having the name of the organization in enamel around the outside border. Inside features a black, half-open winged eagle with a target in the center of the bird. This button shows some age and a few taps here and there, but most of the enamel is still there and there are the usual two swastikas between the words spelling out the organization, “Deutscher schützen verband.” This, of course, is “German Shooting Association.” The grip of this example is the usual fluted, wood base, coated with off-white celluloid. The celluloid has the usual crack and in this case, it runs completely around the center area. This is somewhat good in that the pinned crossed brass rifles tend to hold the celluloid in place. There is also a small crack above the rifles, but it its very minor and there is no material missing. It is extremely difficult to find one of these grips totally intact. Most collectors can be satisfied with the cracking, as is normal. The scabbard of this example is a black leather shell equipped with decorative twin lines running the length of the edges. The reverse of the scabbard is sewn up the center. The scabbard is equipped with matching nickel-plated mounts. These mounts are scalloped on the edges where they meet the leather. They are retained by staples in the usual fashion and there are numbers visible beneath the staples. The leather of this scabbard is in choice condition, showing only the most modest of age. The blade of this example is extremely nice. It has a fine nickeled base with long etched panels on each side. The obverse, which is unique to the Eickhorn patterns, is etched with a set of crossed rifles, a target and a shooting hat above it. After this, there is a hunter positioned to shoot his rifle at a stag and doe jumping over a log. The pattern ends with floral designs. The reverse blade has a scene featuring a boar’s head over a hunting bag with rifle and cutlass. In the center there is a dog chasing a stag jumping over a fence. The end of the etch has more floraling. The spine has a series of laurel leaves running throughout. The reverse ricasso is stamped with the 1935-41 squirrel. The original leather buffer is in place. A good, solid example here; certainly not in mint condition, but very collectible as these cutlasses are difficult to find. They were made late in the period and not many were produced. Further, this example really has a nice blade.

    Excellent. $2,795.00

16. CUTLASS #32038C Subordinate Forestry Cutlass – Siegfried Waffen

    This Subordinate Forestry Cutlass is produced by a rarely seen maker – the E. Pack Company – and can be seen in the catalog reprinted by Tom Johnson in his Volume II. This exact cutlass is shown as being model #19. The cutlass is a standard brass hilted example. The brass is fairly worn, not having much gilding remaining to the surfaces. This cutlass has a fairly plain design consisting of a D-guard, which begins in a deer’s hoof and flows through the crossguard area in to the quillon end, also into a hoof. The deer’s fur has been nicely hand added. The ferrule is a simple design, having three sets of twin lines running around the circumference. Below is a fluted style clamshell with the left quillon going outward and upward. The hilt grip plates are produced of genuine stag. They are masterfully cut and installed and feature very pleasing grays with colors of tan and brown. The reverse grip plate is a darker color than the obverse. Both grip plates reflect acorns, which are the type without oak leaves. There are three acorns on each side. The acorns on the obverse show a copper color and on the reverse, only the center example does. The upper and lower acorns still retain their original brass look. The scabbard shell is composed of black leather, having twin decorative lines running the length of all four edges and the reverse center is sewn up the rear. This leather shows some mild age but is still in excellent condition. The shell is fitted with matching brass mounts, which have scalloped edges and are retained by staples in the reverse. There are numbers visible beneath the staples. The upper mount is equipped with a mount fashioned in the design of an acorn. This acorn also shows some mild surface wear. The lower mount has twin sets of double lines on the obverse only and ends in a plain style button chape. The best part of this cutlass, though, has to be the blade. This blade is identical to the design shown on in the Siegfried Waffen catalog. It begins on the obverse with a stag head featured within a diamond. Next, is the etch of two foxes playing around a log with a pointing dog off in the distance. The blade ends with the capercaille tweeting bird. The reverse etch has the same stag and capercaille at the end and in the center, it features a stag chasing three does across some high grass in a forest. The reverse ricasso is matching etched with the large Siegfried Waffen trademark. Inside the trademark is an arch shape containing the essentials of the Pack firm. Inside is the hammering Siegfried figure. This blade is in near full mint condition. The spine has a series of laurel leaves running most of the length. There is a small flaw on the obverse of the blade that appears to have probably been there when the blade was originally manufactured. Probably the background frosting would have covered this and now that the blade shows some wear, this small flaw shows slightly. The blade, however, is still in near full mint condition. A very rare cutlass here and if you collect these things by maker, this one should be of real interest.

    Excellent Plus. $2,495.00

17. CUTLASS #31579C Subordinate Forestry Cutlass with Eagle and Swastika Ferrule in Original Sash – F. W. Höller

    This Forestry Cutlass is a rare example in itself, let alone still being in its original bullion trimmed carrying sash. The cutlass is the subordinate variety. It is an aluminum hilt that was probably produced as the war was beginning. The gild throughout the aluminum shows some age and wear, but overall, is still 70%-80%. The design has the standard “D-guard,” which is enhanced with raised oak leaf and acorn motifs on both sides. The D-guard travels through the crossguard area with additional oak leaves and acorns ending in a deer’s hoof at the quillon. The detail is quite good throughout this D-guard. Above the D-guard is a built-in ferrule. This ferrule has the stubby-winged political eagle clutching a wreathed swastika in the design. The eagle is not particularly precise and the swastika was cut-in as a finish item rather than being cast into the design, but nevertheless, this was how Höller originally produced this product. Below the hilt is a clamshell, having the long left sweeping upward quillon and depicting a large stag with his head down ready for action. The grip plates are the genuine antler variety and they are nicely cut and masterfully set. These grip plates are a pleasing brown tone, having nice graining throughout. The acorns decorating each side are the type with the two oak leaves and stem at the top. The reverse ferrule, incidentally, depicts a raised out rabbit. The scabbard consists of a black leather shell sewn up the rear and decorated with twin lines running the length of both edges. The mounts are a gilded brass type, showing minor wear and having about 50% of the original gild. These mounts are retained with the large style staples. The upper mount is equipped with an acorn serving as a lug and the lower mount has two sets of plain lines with a plain lower chape button. Attached to the lug is the original owner’s gala dress sash. This sash is a beautiful green silk material, which is trimmed with silver bullion tress on both edges. These sashes were worn over the right shoulder and the cutlass hung at the left side of the waist. This sash shows only nominal age and is still in good crisp condition. This cutlass would certainly make a great display on a mannequin. The blade of this example is a triple etch type. The etch runs perpendicular to the blade, not the usual horizontal variety. The obverse depicts a large stag at the ricasso below a tree. Above this is a hunting bag with horn and shotgun. Above this is a dog with prey in his mouth and the etch ends in a floral design. The reverse blade is very similar having a running deer below a tree and upward from the animal is a hunting bag with sword and rifle. Above this is a large stag head and floral designs finish the etch. The blade has a little bit of age graying to the surfaces, but it is not bad and the designs are still crisp with good frosted backgrounds. The spine is etched with laurel leaves. The reverse ricasso is stamped with the double ovals used by this firm. These ovals contain the firm’s name, “F. W. Höller, Solingen.” Inside is a thermometer, having too many digits to count. The original green felt buffer is in place. This cutlass is not in mint condition, but it is certainly a very rare design with an even rarer sash accoutrement. A great addition to the hunting/forestry collector.

    Excellent Plus. $3,995.00

18. CUTLASS #30596C Imperial Long Hunting Cutlass

    This imperial long hunting cutlass appears to me to be a piece that was actually worn and used for the hunt not just a dress up weapon. It is a long cutlass which measures overall in the scabbard about 24-inches. The hilt looks very similar to a standard Hirschfanger except that the stag grip is slightly longer than norm. The mounts are a steel base type which have a blue finish not being silver. The pommel has the standard umbrella style upper cap with a lower side area having two rows of twin decorative rings. Atop the pommel is an acorn device which acts as a tang nut. The ferrule also has dual ring decoration. The crossguard has a plain center block and has quillon arms which are in the shape of deer’s hooves going upward at the left side and pointing downward at the right. Below this crossguard is a standard clamshell having good fluting. The large grip is a beautiful piece of stag which features colors of tan on the upper grains and dark browns on the lower grain and also in the recesses. It has a great antique look. The scabbard shell on this example is of black leather. It has the line decoration on both edges of both sides and there is also a built in pouch to make room for a skinning knife. The scabbard mounts are blued steel types matching the hilt mounts. The upper mount has the opening for the skinning knife and on the outside there is an acorn which doubles as a lug nut. The lower mount has twin line decoration and a chape button. Both mounts have scallop designs where they meet the leather. This leather shows mild age but it is still supple. Contained within the skinner pouch is an interesting skinning knife, the first of which I have seen. This knife does appear to be original to this piece despite the fact that it does not have a stag handle but rather the handle is made of a very hard wood. Extending out of the wood handle is a very odd shaped blade. This blade seems to have a center ridge that rises high with tapered double edges. On the reverse the blade is completely flat. This design was made so that the blade would fit into the pouch area of the scabbard. The blade, although a substantial weapon, does show age and rust on both sides. The blade of the cutlass is 16-inches long. It is a single edge slab side type having ricasso. The blade has triple etching. The edges are growing faint but they are still all there. The blade overall is gray and has been sharpened during the period as this was a knife that was indeed used for the hunt. The etches are positioned in a perpendicular rather than horizontal manner. The obverse blade depicts a hunter standing with rifle and dog on the start. After this is a panel featuring a horn, hunting bag, a sword, etc. The final etch at the end of the panel depicts a doe and a stag beneath two fir trees. The opposite etch also depicts a hunter with dog and he is blowing his hunting horn. In the center is a stag head over a game bag with horn. At the upper panel is a large rabbit standing on his hind legs. The spine has oak leaf etches. It is a shame that this blade is not nicer but than again it is what it is. This blade is unmarked. If you are looking for an imposing hunting Hirschfanger that truly was used and stood up to its name than this is a good example.

    Excellent. $995.00

19. CUTLASS #30595C Imperial Long Forestry Cutlass - Mohr & Speyer

    This imperial cutlass is made of fine gilded brass fittings. Most of the gilding has left the mounts but there are small traces of it if you look closely. The shape of the hilt is the standard cutlass type having a D-guard at the left which ends at the top in the shape of a deer’s hoof and after it travels through the crossguard center it ends the same. The ferrule of this piece has three raised out decorative lines. Below the crossguard is a clamshell which is fluted on the top and has a long leg coming out the left end which rises upward and ends in a teardrop. The grip plates of this example are genuine ivory. They have toned to a very beautiful golden color and have grained surfaces throughout. This grip plates are most attractive. They are decorated with three oval matching brass bosses. These bosses are in good condition throughout. A good looking hilt here. The scabbard is composed of a leather shell which may have been recovered a few years ago. The leather covering is a smooth black style and it is in near perfect condition which would not ring through considering the overall age of this piece. The leather covering though is well done and is sewn up the rear. The scabbard mounts are matching substantial brass types. They are plain throughout with virtually no design on the upper example having a round boss which acts as a lug. These scabbard mounts have rounded shape where they meet the scabbard and they are retained on the reverse with small screws. This long cutlass measures 23-inches in the scabbard. The blade is a 16-inch long example having single etch design with ricasso. This blade is triple etched. The etch designs are still prominent but the blade is beginning to turn a gray color. On the obverse the etch portrays a deer jumping over a fence in the center being followed by two dogs that are barking at it. There is a fine forest and grass around the scene and before and after the etch there are floral designs. The reverse etch features a chamois in the center having a fine look on its face with curved horns at the top of its head. There are floral designs on either side of this animal and also a hunting bag with hunting implements near the ricasso. The spine is laurel leaf etched and has the retail store’s name and location raised out, “Mohr & Speyer Hoflieferanten Berlin”. An older piece here which is still in collectible condition and would show nicely on your wall.

    Excellent. $895.00

20. CUTLASS #30601C Imperial Forestry Subordinate's Cutlass

    This subordinate’s cutlass is fairly long measuring overall about 20-inches. The hilt section is basically standard having all brass construction with stag grip plates. The brass on this example has not beencleaned in many years and it has toned a darker patination having a plum color. The “D”-guard is decorated with twin lines and it ends at the top in a deer’s hoof and ends the same way at the bottom where it passes through the crossguard. The ferrule area is lined for decoration. There is a clamshell below which has good raised out fluting and it has an upward pointing arm area which ends in a teardrop shape. The grip plates are a nicely toned stag having golden edges and brown and tan graining in the center. These plates are in perfect condition and have a fine eye appeal about them. They are decorated with three leafless style acorns which appear on each side. The scabbard shell is a black leather type having twin lines which decorate both edges and it is sewn up the rear. This leather shows quite a bit of edge but it still is in good supple condition. The scabbard mounts are also plum colored brass and they are plain having line decoration and scalloped edges where they meet the leather. The upper scabbard mount has an acorn which is nice and detailed and doubles as a lug nut. There is a frog attached to this which appears to be a bayonet style black leather frog. This frog is in good condition. The blade is a 14-inch long example having triple etch. The blade has turned gray a long time ago and it is also period sharpened but not badly. The obverse etch, although getting fairly light, depicts a boar at the ricasso and in the center there is a panel of a stag chasing two doe. The panel ends with a bird tweeting on an oak branch. The reverse blade features the etch of a hunter kneeling while aiming at a stag and doe in the forest. There is also a bird image which ends this etch. It is pretty light though and is very hard to see. The spine appears to have had an oak leaf or laurel leaf decoration. The original off-red felt is in place. A good forestry cutlass to put up on the wall just to admire its fine shape and antiquity.

    Good. $795.00

21. CUTLASS #30547 Deluxe Short Forestry Cutlass – Unmarked WKC

    This is a very interesting cutlass that was apparently ordered specially, as it is a combination of WKC’s Model 92 and Model 1051. The piece is identical to the 1051 model, except for the clamshell. This piece, though, is identical to the No. 1051, except for this clamshell. The hilt is an outstanding example having gilded brass mounts. The “d” guard is decorated with overlapping oak leaves and acorns and ends in a deer’s hoof. Where it goes through the cross guard area, it has a crossed ribbon. After this, there is a short quillon area and once again, it ends in a deer’s hoof. The ferrule above has four lines and in the center there is a band section which has lines running perpendicular through its circumference. These lines were all applied by hand. The clamshell is the type that depicts a pointing dog positioned in a forest glen. The right side of the clamshell has a small swirl quillon, whereas, the left side example also has a longer quillon ending in a swirl. The gilded surfaces throughout this hilt are about 85% - 90%. The grip plates are of genuine ivory. They have toned nicely to a golden color and both are in perfect condition. This piece has the leaf style acorns which are the large to small variety that we only see on WKC pieces. The top acorn is the largest and the lower acorn is the smallest. This provides a great effect to the eye. The scabbard is formed of a black leather shell. This shell shows little age, being sewn up the reverse and being decorated with twin lines on both the obverse and the reverse. The scabbard mounts are gilded brass, exactly matching those of the hilt. These scabbard mounts are quite elaborate, having a decorated lug on the upper mount which resembles a gold nugget. Actually, it is a series of overlapping oak leaves that really does give the nugget effect. The lower mount is stamped with crossed sprigs of oak leaves at the bottom panel and the panel above has one sprig of oak leaves and acorns. These panels are separated by a series of two twin lines. The reverse of the fitting is plain and the chape is the style that is pearled around a lower ball. These beautiful mounts are retained by staples and it is possible to see the number “70” beneath the staples. The outstanding short blade is only 9½”. It is triple-etched and has its full factory brightness. Other than a couple of minor age marks on the reverse ricasso, this blade is still in mint condition. It has 100% of the silver backgrounds highlighting the raised etch. The obverse panel depicts the running hunter with shotgun in one arm and cutlass in the other. He is chasing a wild boar which is in the process of shaking off a number of dogs. There are animals flying all over in this depiction. The detail to the trees, leaves and grass around the action is outstanding. The reverse blade is the style which depicts the kneeling hunter firing at a stag who is in chase of a doe as both jump over a falling tree. Once again, the shrubbery, fir trees, grass and oak leaves really look good on this etch. The etch is so crisp you can see the determination in the hunter’s face as he aims his rifle. The upper spine is nicely etched with what looks to be laurel leaves. There is no maker mark on this blade but as indicated above, this piece was made by WKC. There is a thick brown leather washer in place which appears original to this fine cutlass. If you are a hunting forestry collector, I am sure that you do not have this combination. I do not remember seeing this mix of WKC pieces in the past. It shows you, though, that the factories would virtually do anything that a customer required. Assumedly, there would have been an extra charge levied for this piece. An outstanding cutlass here and in nice condition to boot.

    Excellent Plus Plus. $2,895.00

22. CUTLASS #30457C Presentation Shooting Prize Cutlass

    This shooting cutlass is a high-quality item in first class condition. The trademark on the reverse of Alcoso is vintage of about 1935 or 1936. The cutlass is produced with a hilt of silver mounts and stag grip. The pommel is a conventional style having umbrella-like struts that go outward from a center lug. The center lug has the tang running through the top and it is peened over. The edges of the pommel have three sets of decorative lines that run around the circumference. The ferrule nicely matches the decorative lines of the pommel. There are four sets of these. Beneath the ferrule is an up-and-down style cross guard which is depicted in the shape of hooves on the quillon ends. Below this is a fluted clamshell. The stag grip is a real beauty, having deep brown and tan tones with very high grains. The obverse of the stag is decorated with three silver acorns. These acorns are the type without leaves and they are all present and all in beautiful condition. The silvering of this piece is of highest quality and it appears to have been cleaned not too long ago and is in mint condition throughout. The scabbard shell is quite a long black leather example, being decorated with twin lines on the length of both edges. The reverse center is sewn up. The mounts are matching silvered plain types having scalloped edges where they meet the leather shell. The upper mount is decorated with an acorn which acts as the lug. These mounts are staple held. It is interesting to note that this narrow shooting association scabbard, for once, has the original frog. This frog is more narrow than a bayonet frog and is a cherished item, in my opinion. The frog is of a black leather in mint condition being a deluxe type having a rivet in the center of the reverse. There is also a shooting troddel. This troddel is made of cotton and the strapping is textured throughout. There is a green silk slide and stem and below there is a large acorn with matching fabric stuffing. A really fine frog and troddel here. The blade is a typical hunting cutlass type measuring 16” in length. It is double-etched and as is usually the case with these blades, it is polished crosswise up to about 4” and then it is polished horizontally. I do not know why we see these contrasting finishes on these shooting blades, but it must have something to do with the extreme length. At any rate, the obverse blade depicts a floral design at the ricasso and then a target with a set of rifles behind it. In the center area, there is a forest glen with two stags beneath trees and there are also some fences in the distance. The etch finishes with a floral motif. The reverse etch depicts more floral scenes off the ricasso and a hunting grouping of shotguns, hunting horns and a game bag. In the center, there is a stag jumping over a fence in a forest glen and the etch finishes with a floral motif. The really interesting part, though, is a three-line presentation etched into the end of the blade. It is “Ehrenpreis/der/Stadt Sodernheim”. This translates to “Honor Prize of the City of Sodernheim”. The reverse section of the blade ending has the word “Opferschiehsem”. This would mean that the hunting cutlass was the prize designated for the best shooter. This is a very nice cutlass that goes back to about 1935.

    Near Mint. $2,995.00

23. CUTLASS #28140 DAF Dedicated Hunting Cutlass

    This cutlass appears to be a private purchase style example having stag grip plates and massive bowie style blade. The piece measures overall about 15 inches. It is of heaviest metal and of highest quality throughout. The grip plates are antler, very large, and have been shaped to the tang of the cutlass. These plates have a rounded pommel area and they thin slightly on the downward slope and then flare outward in the center area, making for a sturdy handhold. The antler is very beautiful, having attractive brown and tan color tones mixed in the graining. The edges have turned a golden tone and there is also gold tones in the outer edges of the grip graining. There is a hole which has been factory drilled through the center of the grip at the pommel top. Assumedly, this hole would have been used for the tying of a rawhide thong loop or similar effort. At the lower portion of the obverse grip, there is a partial round drilling of the stag. This partial drilling accommodates a cog wheel and swastika device which are the emblems of the Deutsche Arbeit Front. The insignia appears to be made of aluminum, having very crisp teeth to the cog wheel. The inside swastika is a pierced variety and is the mobile type. The surfaces of the swastika are intricately checkered. Behind this insignia on the stag base, there has been applied a red coloring. This, of course, accents the insignia. This coloring appears to have been done prior to the installation of the DAF insignia. Below the stag grip is a simple steel nickel plated up-and-down hunting style cross guard. The quillon ends are in a teardrop shape. The blade of this example is an extremely fine bowie style constructed example. It is 9 inches in length and has a blade edge which accommodates about half of the lower portion of the blade. There is also a short ricasso and consistent with bowie style knives, there is a false edge at the upper area which extends to almost the midway point. This blade is still bright, showing only minor age. On the obverse center area, there is a three-line dedication. The dedication is “In dankbarer Erinnerung/Ernst Bickel, Hannah Freitag,/Peter Schütz, Anne Schütz.” This dedication seems to thank the memory of these four people. It is interesting to note that two of the people are women in this case. For the most part, women are seldom mentioned on Third Reich edged weapons, so, perhaps, these people were connected with the labor unions that would have controlled both male and female personnel under the NSDAP. This piece is one of a kind and absolutely original. The blade also has some minor sharpening, but it is nothing. The scabbard is a leather shell. The shell itself is a darker brown leather which is sewn up the rear. It has a circular throat applied around the top area of the scabbard. Beneath the throat is a lighter color leather hanger application. It is possible that this hanger application was done after the war to replace the original one. I cannot tell for sure, but this lighter color leather does seem to be in a newer state than the leather on the shell. The bottom of the shell is equipped with a nickel plated chape fitting. This fitting is simple in design, having rounded style edges where it meets the leather and a ball at the bottom. A great piece here for those who may collect DAF items or possibly a great piece for future research. It is interesting to me to see the name “Ernst Bickel” on this blade, as most collectors will recognize that name as being a fine SA producer. Perhaps, it is the same individual who may have been connected with the DAF? At any rate, a tremendous cutlass here and a fine piece which would make a great addition to either a hunting or NSDAP collection.

    Mint. $1,995.00

24. CUTLASS #30047 Imperial Hirschfanger with Skinner

    This imperial hirschfanger is an early piece and is quite unusual in that it is finished in silver fittings instead of the usual brass for imperial pieces. The silvered fittings appear to have had some old lacquer put on them to preserve their finish but the patination has long ago covered the silvering. The pommel cap is kind of an interesting piece in that it is flared up to the rim and the upper portion is smooth. There is one decorative line around the edge. This pommel is retained by a peened over tang. The ferrule below nicely matches the silvering of the pommel having twin line decoration. The crossguard is a straight type which has quillon arms that go outward in a square shape and then become rounded in the shape of acorns at the quillons. The center blocks of both sides are plain. Below the crossguard is a small style fluted clamshell. The grip of this example exactly fits the pommel and the ferrule. The fitting process was extremely well done. The grip is a nice shape which rather than being rounded has almost three square sides. The antler has nice grain to it and varies in colors from tan to darker brown. The scabbard shell is made of black leather having decorative lines on the edges and sewn up the rear. This leather shows age throughout but is still in sound condition. The scabbard mounts are matching silvered type. The mounts have scalloped style edges where they meet the shell and the upper scabbard has the bulged area which is meant for making a pocket to secure the skinning knife. The original skinning knife is still in place. Its flat stag grip plates exactly match that of the current stag grip above. The knife shows some old sharpening and is a plain finish style. It also has a false edge at the top. A nice original skinner here! The upper scabbard fitting is complete with wire ears, one on each side, which would have acted to hold a thonged style hunting frog. The blade of this example is a plain type having single edge and fairly large fuller. This blade measures about 14-inches overall and shows some signs of sharpening along the edge. Overall though the blade is in pretty good shape still being mostly bright and rating at about excellent plus. There is a green felt original buffer protecting the blade. The blade does not go all the way into the scabbard as the leather has shrunk slightly. There is about one inch which remains out of the scabbard.

    Excellent Plus. $995.00

25. CUTLASS #29868 Small Hunting Knife

    This small hunting knife looks almost homemade but I am not certain. It has a stag handle with a ferrule mount and no pommel. The stag is cut to a slight angle at the top and it is trimmed at the bottom to meet into the ferrule. The ferrule is a rather crude piece of metal. Below the ferrule is a steel crossguard device which is plain in the center and rounded on both guards and tilted downward at the quillon ends. The stag is a brown tan color showing much age. The blade of this example has been rudely sharpened throughout and it is hard to see what its original shape may have been. It does have a good strong spine however which tapers nicely down at the tip area. Perhaps a good person able to use a knife grinding wheel could once again reshape this blade. At this point it is a hodgepodge of grind marks going in all different directions. The scabbard for this example appears to be a Hitler Youth type. The shell is painted black with some touchup paint here and there. The original brown leather hanger is still in position being riveted to the scabbard. The hanger has the stamping we frequently see on these consisting of an oak leaf and the initials, “L” and “S” on either side respectively. The retainer loop has been removed from this strap and a small retainer loop has been installed at the lower complete with a working snap. This lower retainer does go around the ferrule and works good. This knife is priced to sell and is a good one for someone who can work with metal finishing. The Hitler Youth scabbard probably is worth the price of the entire piece. This knife came with some other items purchased directly from a veteran.

    Good Only. $65.00

26. CUTLASS #28984 National Hunting Association Cutlass

    This National Hunting Association cutlass does not appear to have been cleaned since the period. All silvered fittings have a very desirable black patination throughout their surfaces. The pommel is a very good-looking example having the oak leaf decoration overflowing the edges. There are also acorns which can be seen as spaced throughout this design on the edges. The bottom of the pommel is rimmed to nicely meet the stag grip which is just about the exact same size. This beautiful pommel is retained by an acorn device which also acts as a tang nut. The cap of the acorn has much hand checkering and is extremely detailed. The ferrule below is twin lined and it nicely sits on the center block of the crossguard. This crossguard is plain on both sides of the center area and the quillons go up and down in the usual manner. These quillon arms are in the shape of deer hooves and like the other parts have nice hand engraving. Below the crossguard is the clamshell which is beautifully formed and in perfect condition. The massive grip for this example is a piece of genuine stag. It is nicely shaped having a slight turn to the left at the top. The grain is a brown / tan color and is raised slightly throughout the grip. On the center obverse area there is a pinned DJ insignia. This insignia consists of a stag’s head with a sunray in the form of a cross in between the antlers, and then in the center there is a cut in swastika. This insignia still has some of the original silvering at the bottom area around the DJ letters but at the top area it is mostly down to the copper flash color. The scabbard shell is a fine composition example covered with green fine grained leather. This leather is decorated with twin lines which run down the edges of both sides. The leather is still in excellent condition showing a couple of very minor scuffs but nothing considering the age of this fine piece. The scabbard mounts are as black as the hilt exactly matching the patination. These mounts have a fine scallop design where they meet the leather. The silvering is slightly lighter on the reverse, an indication that the piece has been lying on this side facing upward all these years. These mounts are in perfect condition having 100% silvering and they are retained with staples in the reverse in the usual manner. The upper mount has a fine acorn device which acts as a lug. The acorn at the pommel, the cap is also finely checkered. The lower mount is simply line decorated. Very fine scabbard here! The fine slab side triple etched blade measures 12 ¾-inches. It is an extremely bright nickel-plated example retaining its needlelike tip and very crisp spine. This blade is unmarked, but that is no sign that it is not of highest quality as it definitely is. The blade is in mint condition. The obverse scene depicts a large stag chasing after two jumping does. Further down the scene there is a pointed dog who is vertically depicted on the blade. At the reverse there is a kneeled hunter shooting at a single running stag. By the way, this is not the usual hunter shooting at a deer, it is a totally different etch than you normally see. What is really interesting too is that at the end of this etch in a perpendicular form is the rare chamois animal which looks a lot like a deer with small single antlers. I remember seeing this animal on an etch many years ago and I assume this must be a blade of the same type. Very beautiful indeed! This spine is also impressive with its steadfast straight quality line. In the center it has an etching of laurel leaves with a fine frosted background. An extremely interesting and beautiful mint hunting blade here. The blade has been protected by a green felt buffer. Unfortunately it looks like a moth or some other cloth eating insect has got to it though and about half of the buffer is gone. A very fine hunting cutlass, not the usual run of the mill variety.

    Near Mint. $2,195.00 (#110209)

27. CUTLASS #28702 National Rifle Association Shooting Cutlass – Alcoso

    This shooting cutlass was personally purchased by me from the son of the 101st airborne veteran who brought it home. The cutlass is in completely “as found” condition and aside from some flaws in the grip will still clean up quite nicely. The hilt fittings are the usual aluminum base material having nickel-plated surfaces. The pommel cap is the style that has a fluted top going outward from a screw which acts to retain the tang. The sides of the pommel are decoratively lined. The ferrule below is a cone shape and it also has several sets of decorative lines. The crossguard has the up and down quillon arms, the center block being plain. The quillon arms end in nicely detailed acorns. The caps of these acorns appear to have hand engraving. The clamshell below is the typical shooting cutlass type having laurel leaves decorating the right side of the shell and oak leaves decorating the left side. The backgrounds are nicely pebbled. In the center is an applied National Shooting Association insignia. This insignia is about the size of a dime and is exactly shaped to nicely conform to the curve of the clamshell. In the center is a target-like black enamel bird with his wings half open and a white enamel target in the center. The enamel is in 100% condition across this bird. Going around the border of the medallion is the name of the organization, “Deutscher Schützen Verband”. Separating the words are two small swastikas which are the only symbols we see on these cutlasses. At the reverse the medallion is retained by two rivets. The grip of this example is a fluted wood base. The grip was covered with a celluloid coating which unfortunately like most of these has not only received cracks from the stress of the wood drying out below but there are also a couple of pieces of material that is missing. A small piece at the obverse front and a small sliver on the left side. To find one of these cutlasses with no stress cracks is practically impossible. The grip is decorated with a set of copper plated cross rifles. These rifles are pinned through the surface in to the wood below. The scabbard shell is a leather type. The leather has decorative lines which run on the edges of both sides and it is sewn up the rear. This leather shows quite a few age cracks and overall usage but it is all there and still relatively sound. The scabbard has nickel-plated steel mounts which exactly match the plating of the hilt. Like the hilt, these fittings would clean up nicely if someone wanted to do it. The mounts have scalloped edges where they meet the scabbard shell. The upper mount has a smooth lug for holding a frog. The reverse of both scabbard mounts have staples which act as the retainage method. Overall this long cutlass measures approximately 21 ½-inches. The thin slab side blade is a double etched variety having false edge which runs back about a third of the way on the upper portion of the blade. The obverse presents an etch which depicts a target with cross rifles as well as a pair of stags who are resting in a forest glen. There are also floral designs at the end. This blade shows some age and some graying but the scenes are still fairly easy to see. The reverse blade has more floraling and depicts a stag leaping over a fence in the forest. These cutlasses normally do not have etching on the spine. As is usually the case with cutlass blades, for some reason the graying runs across the blade down to about 3-inches past the ricasso, after that it continues smooth. This must have had to do with the machinery which was used to grind or polish these blades. The reverse ricasso is stamped with the trademark used from 1937-1939. It consists of a set of scales having the firm’s initials interspersed. Above the scales is the firm’s name written in block letters in an arch shape and below is the location city of, “Solingen”. This blade only grades at about excellent. The blade is protected by the in place green felt buffer. This cutlass is not in terrific condition but it still is what it is and will clean up substantially. If the day ever comes where replacement grips will be available that would make this cutlass a very collectible example. In the meantime it is priced accordingly.

    Good Plus. $995.00

28. CUTLASS #26163 Subordinate's Forestry Cutlass with Eagle & Swastika

    This later-made Forestry Cutlass is a short type and is produced with a gilded aluminum hilt and gilded steel fittings on the scabbard. This is one of the rarely seen examples which incorporate the eagle and swastika in the design. The gilt throughout the hilt areas is 100%. It really looks good and shows little to no wear. The “D” guard is beautifully hand-enhanced, having a series of overlapping oak leaves in the center and then at the upper area, has some depictions which almost look like flaming pineapples. Whatever these are, the cross checkering that was done is quite effective. The same design appears on both sides. At the center of the “D” guard, there is a sprig of oak leaves with a detailed acorn in the center. The “D” guard ends in a deer’s hoof, which is complete with decorative hair being cut into the surfaces. The ferrule area on the obverse depicts an open-winged Political type eagle which looks to the viewer’s left. This eagle clutches a small wreath within which, there is a raised out swastika. The detail is fairly nice to this depiction. The backs of the panels have been hand-stippled. The reverse ferrule is blank, just having a lined panel. The eagle and swastika designs are only seen in late pieces and, therefore, there are few of these that exist from the period. The grip plates are a fine genuine stag. These plates have darkened nicely over the years, having rich, brown grains in their surfaces. The edge areas of both plates have turned a golden color. The plates are decorated with three acorns on each side. These acorns are the style having the two leaves above them. All of them are in place. The scabbard shell is a black leather. It is still nice and supple, showing only the most nominal of wear and usage. This leather is decorated with twin lines on the front and back, and it is sewn up the rear. The leather shell is fitted with brass based gilded mounts. These mounts have pointed designs on both sides where they meet the leather. On the reverse, the mounts are plain and on the obverse upper, there is a nicely detailed acorn which acts as a lug. The lower fitting has a series of six oak leaves all on top of each other, and each having acorns out the side. This design is quite beautifully done and there is pebble patterns applied over these leaves. The scabbard mounts have about 50% to 60% of the original gilt. They are retained by staples in the usual manner. The short blade of this example is a triple-etched type. It is unmarked and is only about 10 inches in length. The blade has the action running toward the viewer when the piece is held in the right hand. The obverse etch depicts dogs pulling down a wild boar, and the reverse etch, depicts a large stag chasing a doe jumping over a log. It is interesting to note in the end panel of the reverse etch there is a large falcon sitting on a shelf looking to the left. This is the first time I remember seeing a bird of prey in any of these etches. The spine has a fine etching of laurel leaves. This unmarked blade is in full mint condition, having outstanding frosting highlighting the raised out areas. The original brown felt buffer is still in place. A very fine period piece in top notch condition. These examples are extremely difficult to find.

    Near Mint. $3,395.00

29. CUTLASS #26966 Deluxe Senior Short Forestry Cutlass - Unmarked WKC

    This deluxe Senior Short Forestry cutlass was the most expensive piece that WKC offered in its line of cutlasses. It is the stock no. 1051. This piece is not marked, but there is no question that it comes from WKC. If you do not have a WKC catalogue, this piece can be seen on Page 143, far right, of the Johnson Volume II book. This cutlass is most impressive looking. The hilt consists of highest quality brass mounts. The “d” guard runs through the cross guard area and ends in a deer’s hoof on both quillons. In the center area, there are raised out oak leaf and acorn depictions. The workmanship throughout is quite beautiful. The ferrule is built into the cross guard area and, in the center, it has small decorative lines which were hand-added in addition to the normal accent lines that run on both sides of the center. This cutlass has a very distinctive clamshell, different from all other types offered by WKC. The clamshell is in a shield shape design and it depicts the head of a grisly boar having ivory teeth sticking out of its snout. The boar has great detail throughout its hair, eye and ear. It is so detailed, you can almost hear it snorting. Around the head of the boar are raised out oak leaves and acorns. The backgrounds have all been random pebbled. A terrific looking clamshell area here! The grip plates of this example are done in expert cut ivory. These ivory plates have turned a very desirable golden tone and there are no cracks, chips or problems anywhere or these expertly cut plates. Both sides of the grip are fitted with the three-nut construction. These nuts are the style which go from large to small, and they feature two oak leaves above them with a thick stem. It is rare to see all three nuts in place and in this kind of condition. There is not a lot of gilding that remains across the surfaces of these pieces, but there is enough to give the piece a very formidable look. It excites the Forestry / Hunting collector with the fact that not only is the look and condition great, but it also has some signs of actual wear. The scabbard is composed of a black leather shell. The shell has twin decorative lines on the edges of both the front and the reverse and it is sewn up the rear. The scabbard fittings are nicely done with a scallop-like design where they meet the leather. The mounts are staple-held and there are numbers visible beneath the staples. The upper mount is fitted with a gold nugget type lug. It is quite beautiful and well done. The lower mount is decorated with hand-done oak leafing and also there is an extra sprig put in by hand at the upper portion. The chape of this fine fitting is a fancy doorknob type style. The triple-etch blade of this choice cutlass is only 9½ inches in length. It is in bright, near full mint condition. It depicts the same scenes which are shown in the catalogue piece. The obverse has the hunter with rifle in one hand and cutlass in another, running through the woods. He is chasing a boar that is being brought down by several dogs. The scene is clear and crisp and has all of the background frosting. The reverse scene is in the same fine condition. It depicts the hunter stooped while aiming a rifle at a large stag chasing after a doe, both of which are jumping over a log. The spine of this example is decorated with raised laurel leaves. As stated above, there is no trademark on this choice blade but it definitely is the work of WKC. The original brown leather blade washer is in place. An outstanding piece here which would add much depth to a otherwise fine Forestry / Hunting collection. This is a rarely seen exceptional piece which measures overall in the scabbard only 15 inches. In German hunting society, the shorter the weapon, the higher the status of the carrier.

    Near Mint. $2,995.00

30. CUTLASS #27467 Subordinate's Forestry Cutlass - Carl Eickhorn

    This example is constructed of fine quality brass mounts. It is the Model No. 1189 which appears in the Eickhorn catalogue. The “d” guard is of fairly smooth surfaces having lined borders and at the beginning and end there is a simulated deer hoof. The hair of the hoof is hand-chiseled at the areas just above. The ferrule area is simply line decorated. Below the cross guard area formed by the “d” guard, there is a clamshell. This clamshell has a fluted surface and at the left side, it has a flared quillon end which goes upward in a teardrop. The grip plates are made of genuine stag antler. This antler has most attractive dark brown and tan grains with good surfaces. The edges of the stag have turned a pleasing golden color. These grip plates were cut and installed by a master craftsman. The grip plates are decorated with three leafless nuts. These nuts have fine checkered caps and all six are present and are original to this cutlass. The leather shell is a black color and is in excellent condition, showing little to no age. This shell has decorative twin lines on the obverse and reverse and the reverse is sewn tight. Mounted to the shell are brass upper and lower fittings. These fittings have scalloped ends where they meet the leather and they are retained by staples in the usual manner. There are numbers visible beneath the staples. The lower fitting has twin line decoration with a distinct chape button at the lower, and the upper mount is fitted with an acorn style lug. The blade of this example is as nice as you will see. It measures 13 inches and is triple-etched. This blade is still bright and has all of its frosting in the backgrounds. The blade is in a mint condition. The obverse etch features a hunter kneeling and aiming his rifle at a large stag chasing after a doe jumping over a log. At the upper portion of the etch is a capercaille bird which is sitting on an oak branch chirping. The reverse blade is the etch featuring the hunter running after a boar who is being pounced upon by dogs. The hunter carries a rifle and a cutlass. There are six dogs which are trying to bring this boar down. Some are succeeding, while others are being thrown on their heads. The etch ends up with a humming-bird like which is hovering above an oak-leafed branch. The spine is etched with overlapping oak leaves. The blade of this example is stamped with the early double oval trademark which traps the firm’s name and location, “Carl Eickhorn Solingen”. Inside is a rabbit-like squirrel eating a nut with serrated tail. This trademark was used from about 1933-35. The green felt washer is still in place. A fine cutlass here in excellent, collectible condition.

    Near Mint. $1,695.00

31. FC3 #27342 Subordinate's Forestry Cutlass - Alcoso

    This is a fine quality forestry cutlass with top-notch quality brass fittings. The “d” guard also acts as a cross guard and it has quillons which end in deers’ hooves. The hooves have had hair hand-engraved into the brass surfaces. The ferrule is a line design type. Below the cross guard area, there is a fluted clamshell. The clamshell has a flared teardrop at the right side and also another flared teardrop which goes up much further on the left side. This fine cutlass still has most of the original gilding across its surfaces. It looks to have about 95%. The grip plates are made of genuine stag antler. These plates have good looking brown and tan colors in the surface grains. The edges are a golden antique color. The grip plates have been cut and installed by a master. They are decorated with the three original acorn nuts. These nuts are the type which do not have leaves on their edges and they have fine checkering to their acorn caps. Tied about the ferrule and “d” guard is an original-to-the-piece forestry cutlass troddel. This troddel is for a senior cutlass, but, nonetheless, it appears to have always been on this example. The strapping consists of aluminum textured bullion have twin grain lines which run the length. There is a slide which consists of green and bullion “v” weaves and the stem is the flat type having crochet-like bullion covering its metal surfaces below. The ovaled bullion ball is of yarnlike aluminum material and it has a green cat’s anus style cloth stuffing. There is no fraying to this forestry knot and it is in near mint condition. The shell of this example is a standard black leather type having twin line decoration to both of the obverse and reverse edges. The reverse center is sewn up. The scabbard mounts are brass, having fine gilding nicely matching the hilt. These mounts have scalloped edges where they meet the leather and the lower example is twin-line decorated with button style chape. The upper example has an acorn which doubles as a lug. These scabbard mounts are staple held. Attached to the upper mount is an original-to-the-piece green leather frog. The leather on the reverse is a brown color. This frog is in excellent condition and it has a “d” ring at the top. The “d” ring appears to be nickel plated and is retained by a sewn green leather flap. Nice to see these cutlasses complete with the accouterments! The slab sided blade of this example is triple-etched and measures 13 inches in length. The blade is still nice and bright, having its original frosted backgrounds. This blade is in near full mint condition. The obverse etch portrays a pointer dog who is sniffing at two foxes playing around a log. The etch ends with two game birds sitting in a grassy knoll. The reverse etch has three doe running through a forest glen closely trailed by a young stag. The deer are in the middle of a forest glen having trees on both sides. There is overlapping laurel leaves which complete the spine etch. The reverse ricasso is stamped with the trademark used from 1937-39. It consists of a set of scales having the firm’s initials “ACS” interspersed. Above the scales in an arch is the block-lettered name of the firm “Alcoso”. Below is the firm name of “Solingen”. The blade is protected by an in-place green felt buffer. This buffer shows only mild age. An excellent cutlass here and, as most collectors know, for some reason there are more senior cutlasses than there are subordinate examples. Also, Alcoso is not a commonly seen type. Fine example here.

    Near Mint. $1,995.00

32. CUTLASS #28140 DAF Dedicated Hunting Cutlass

    This cutlass appears to be a private purchase style example having stag grip plates and massive bowie style blade. The piece measures overall about 15 inches. It is of heaviest metal and of highest quality throughout. The grip plates are antler, very large, and have been shaped to the tang of the cutlass. These plates have a rounded pommel area and they thin slightly on the downward slope and then flare outward in the center area, making for a sturdy handhold. The antler is very beautiful, having attractive brown and tan color tones mixed in the graining. The edges have turned a golden tone and there is also gold tones in the outer edges of the grip graining. There is a hole which has been factory drilled through the center of the grip at the pommel top. Assumedly, this hole would have been used for the tying of a rawhide thong loop or similar effort. At the lower portion of the obverse grip, there is a partial round drilling of the stag. This partial drilling accommodates a cog wheel and swastika device which are the emblems of the Deutsche Arbeit Front. The insignia appears to be made of aluminum, having very crisp teeth to the cog wheel. The inside swastika is a pierced variety and is the mobile type. The surfaces of the swastika are intricately checkered. Behind this insignia on the stag base, there has been applied a red coloring. This, of course, accents the insignia. This coloring appears to have been done prior to the installation of the DAF insignia. Below the stag grip is a simple steel nickel plated up-and-down hunting style cross guard. The quillon ends are in a teardrop shape. The blade of this example is an extremely fine bowie style constructed example. It is 9 inches in length and has a blade edge which accommodates about half of the lower portion of the blade. There is also a short ricasso and consistent with bowie style knives, there is a false edge at the upper area which extends to almost the midway point. This blade is still bright, showing only minor age. On the obverse center area, there is a three-line dedication. The dedication is “In dankbarer Erinnerung/Ernst Bickel, Hannah Freitag,/Peter Schütz, Anne Schütz.” This dedication seems to thank the memory of these four people. It is interesting to note that two of the people are women in this case. For the most part, women are seldom mentioned on Third Reich edged weapons, so, perhaps, these people were connected with the labor unions that would have controlled both male and female personnel under the NSDAP. This piece is one of a kind and absolutely original. The blade also has some minor sharpening, but it is nothing. The scabbard is a leather shell. The shell itself is a darker brown leather which is sewn up the rear. It has a circular throat applied around the top area of the scabbard. Beneath the throat is a lighter color leather hanger application. It is possible that this hanger application was done after the war to replace the original one. I cannot tell for sure, but this lighter color leather does seem to be in a newer state than the leather on the shell. The bottom of the shell is equipped with a nickel plated chape fitting. This fitting is simple in design, having rounded style edges where it meets the leather and a ball at the bottom. A great piece here for those who may collect DAF items or possibly a great piece for future research. It is interesting to me to see the name “Ernst Bickel” on this blade, as most collectors will recognize that name as being a fine SA producer. Perhaps, it is the same individual who may have been connected with the DAF? At any rate, a tremendous cutlass here and a fine piece which would make a great addition to either a hunting or NSDAP collection.

    Mint. $1,995.00

33. CUTLASS #28019 National Hunting Association Cutlass - Unmarked E. & F. Hörster

    This hunting cutlass does not appear to have been cleaned since the war and it is in first rate condition throughout. The hilt fittings are plated silver types. The pommel cap is an extremely large example because the stag grip beneath is also a large proportioned piece of antler. This cap has the usual flutes which go outward from the center area and there is a simulated acorn at the top which also acts as the blade tang nut. The detail to the acorn cap is all hand-rendered. The sides of the pommel have the usual twin line decoration. The ferrule below is plain with two sets of twin lines. The cross guard is the standard up-and-down variety, having a left quillon pointing upward and a right quillon pointing downward. Both end in deer’s hooves and there is lots of simulated hair which has been hand-rendered. Below the cross guard is a fluted clamshell. All of these fittings are black with patination and look terrific. Setting them off, though, is a huge stag handle. This antler is extremely beautiful, having brown and tan colors in the surfaces as well as beautiful knobs and grains. The antler is so large that it is almost out of proportion to the piece. I like this look a lot though, and as is typical with the original producers, the piece of antler is almost the same size as the mounts, requiring little trimming. (Be careful of the stag grips that are highly trimmed, as usually this is a post-war giveaway.) The scabbard shell is a soft material base being covered with fine grained leather. The leather work is so well done that I really do not even see a seam. This scabbard shell does not have the usual twin decorative lines which run up the edges of both sides – sometimes the Alcoso pieces do not have them either. The shell is complete with the upper and lower mounts. These mounts are the style which have scalloped ends where they meet the leather. The lower mount has two sets of twin decorative lines on the obverse only and the chape button is nicely formed at the bottom. The upper mount has the usual acorn depiction which acts as a lug for a carrying frog. Unfortunately, the frog has gone to time. These mounts are retained by staples in the usual manner. The overall length of this fine cutlass is just about 20 inches. The stone mint blade measures 13 inches. This beautiful blade has triple-etched hunting scenes. The obverse scene depicts the boar being attacked by dogs with the hunter close behind grasping a rifle in his right hand and a dagger in his left. The end panel is finished off with a humming-like bird. The reverse blade depicts the scene of the hunter kneeling while aiming a rifle and there is a large stag and deer jumping over a log. The panel ends with a capercaille sitting on an oak leaf sprig whistling. The frosting behind the etch is absolutely 100% and really highlights the relief. The spine is etched with laurel leaves. A very beautiful blade here and the best you will see. The blade is buffered by the original green felt washer. This is an outstanding hunting cutlass which, judging by the fittings and blade, was definitely produced by the E & F Hörster Company. It would have been sold through a hunting shop thus the lack of manufacturer on the blade. I forgot to mention above, but the center of the grip obverse has a matching silver patinated insignia which is that of the Deutsche Jägerschaft. It depicts a stag’s head which in between his antlers is a raid cross and an inscribed swastika in the center. On either side of the deer’s head are the initials of the organization “D.J.”. This is a very fine insignia. If you are looking to have just one hunting cutlass in your collection, it would be very difficult to upgrade this beautiful impressive example.

    Uncleaned. Near Mint. $2,495.00

34. CUTLASS #18918 Nationa Hunting Asscociation Cutlass with Rig - Carl Eickhorn

    This is the ultra-rare silver deluxe cutlass offered by the Carl Eickhorn firm, as Model Nr. 1711. It is the one everyone wants, but is extremely elusive as most examples encountered today are post-war reproductions. This beautiful example is the short style, overall measuring less than 18 inches. The silvered mounts throughout reflect a fine patinated finish. The pommel cap is decorated on the top with a flair-out of detailed oak leafing, all stemming from a centered acorn which also acts as a tang nut. The lower side rim of the cap also reflects raised-out overlapping oak leafing. The motif is further matched with the lower ferrule ring. There is also a beaded ring above and below the leafing pattern of this ferrule. The impressive crossguard features quillons with detailed hooves making up the ends. They also have hair simulated legs which stem out from the center block which features more raised out oak leafing. The crossguard arms are the up and down variety. Below the guard is a choice clamshell. The shell depicts a tweeting ge hopes a female shows up. The panel appears on the obverse only. Attached to the upper mount is the original-to-the-piece green leather frog. The frog is the style having a "V" notch and a gilded "D" ring. Attached to the "D" ring is a matching green leather teardrop, having a matching gilded pebble finished snap clip. The reverse of the clip is stamped "RZM 5/117" and also "B & N". A great rigging here that is worth a lot of money in its own right. But that's not all. Attached to the reverse of the frog is a choice original senior hunting portepee. This very rare portepee features gold bullion strapping having narrow dual green lines running the length. The slide is a bold bullion textured fabric, and the stem is the flat style crochet type. The ovaled acorn ball is gold bullion, having a cat's anus green stuffing. This original portepee is extremely rare and is the first I remember seeing. The blade is bright throughout, being a triple etched variety. There is a little mild sharpening, but you see this on these things. It is not bad and it is not into the etch. The blade conforms to the Eickhorn catalog layout and other than the minor sharpening, this blade is in near full mint condition. The obverse is etched with the standard scene of hunter kneeling with a rifle, shooting at a doe and a buck running off over a log. The obverse has the hunter running after his dogs who are in the process of pulling down a boar. The upper edge spine is etched with oak leafing. As is correct for period Eickhorn short blades, the action runs toward the tip when the cutlass is held in the right hand. The reverse of the blade is stamped with the 1935 through 1941 squirrel trademark. The green felt buffer is in place, showing mild age but all there. A very rare original with all the bells and whistles. You will look a very long time for one of these.

    Near Mint. $7,495.00

35. CUTLASS #24070 National Hunting Association Cutlass - Clemen and Jung

    This Hunting Association cutlass has never been cleaned and reflects total black patination over its silvered fittings. It really looks good and has much appeal to those of us out there that like this untouched look. I personally think there is nothing that looks better than coal black silver! The Clemen and Jung produced Hunting Cutlasses are quite rare. This one is very beautiful and I believe is the first of its type that I have offered. The hilt has a pommel cap which has the normal ringed edges and flared out lines on the top section. The fluted lines are covered in the center by a round cap which also acts as a tang nut. This round cap is different from any other tang retaining assembly I remember seeing on hunting cutlasses. It certainly would be exclusive to Clemen and Jung. The crossguard is the standard up and down style which depicts deer's hooves. The hair of the hooves and legs is all hand done. The ferrule is a choice example having two raised out lines for decoration, instead of the usual cut in style. The ferrule and crossguard are also of a slimmer proportion than what we usually see. The clamshell is a standard type which has beautiful fluting. These fittings, as stated above, are still all black and they are of a slightly smaller proportion than what we normally see. The grip is of antler and it has been hand picked to nearly fit these mounts naturally with very little chiseling. This impressive stag is of a darker color brown and it has fine raised grain areas with appealing golden toning where it has been trimmed slightly to fit both the pommel and the ferrule. Pinned into the center of the antler grip is a National Hunting Association insignia. It consists of a stag head with a swastika superimposed over the cross which lies between the antlers. On either side of the deer's head respectively, are the initials of the organization, "D.J." The silvering still remains throughout this hunting insignia. The scabbard shell is a fine green leather covered example. The base material is probably a composition. This leather still remains in good condition showing only mild age and still having all of its surface graining. There is a little bit of runner push-out, but not much. The scabbard mounts are matching patinated silvered type. They both have scalloped designs where they meet the leather. The bottom mount has a standard button style chape and is line decorated. The upper mount has no decoration and is fitted with an acorn lug. The cap of the acorn is deeply hand cut. These mounts are retained by silvered staples in the usual manner and there are numbers visible beneath the staples. The blade of this example is a very fine high quality triple etched slab side type and it measures 13-inches in length. This blade is in mint condition. It features a perpendicular placed etching instead of the horizontal type most producers portray. The obverse blade features two panels which are flanked by floral designs at the beginning, center and end. The first panel depicts a stag jumping in a forest glen and the second panel portrays a fox with a rabbit in his mouth standing beneath trees. The reverse blade has a repeat motif with floral designs, except it has actually three panels instead of two. The first panel features dogs attempting to pull down a boar, the second has a stag and a doe standing in a forest glen eyeing each other up, and the third panel depicts two game birds in some high grass. Beautiful designs here and every minute detail is clear as a bell. The spine reflects laurel leafing throughout. The reverse ricasso is stamped with a small shield having a crown over its top. Within the shield is the capital letter, "Z", being the logo for the Clemen and Jung firm. There is a new-like black leather washer in place which has perfectly protected this choice blade. A great piece here for those collecting Hunting Forestry types.

    Near Mint. $2,295.00