German WWI Trench Knife with Antler Handle and Leather Scabbard by Manufacturer Gottlieb Hammesfahr Solingen Foche. Sn. 5308. Dagger

This is a nice German WWI trench dagger (with the exception of the German Nahkampfmesser or (close combat knife), most early trench knives were fabricated by hand by individual soldiers or blacksmiths for the purpose of silently killing sentries and other soldiers during trench raids. These early "trench knives" were often shortened and sharpened Army-issue bayonets. One type of stabbing weapon, the French Nail, was made by cutting and pointing the steel stakes used to support the barbed wire protecting trenches. Some historians say that some trench knives models were inspired by the Bowie knife. This nice example with maker Gottlieb Hammesfahr Solingen Foche imprinted to one side of the blade. The 6” blade (10 ½ “ overall) is in very good condition with minor age related staining. The one piece Antler grip has silver coloured metal to the base and pommel. It has a brass coloured finger guard above the blade. The scabbard is thick brown leather with integrated belt loop. The leather, stitching and studs are all in good order. The price includes UK delivery. Sn. 5308.