SMGL-24725 SS dagger RZM 941/39 SS by Eickhorn

The so called “rat” logo is seldom seen and often confused as a reproduction. This squirrel only shows up on these 39 marked examples to the best of my knowledge. The blade on this dagger is quite nice, showing no signs of oxidation. It has that late model thin profile. The blade has had an edge put on it but it’s very carefully done without the use of a grinder. The guards are the unmarked solid nickel type as well as the pommel nut which shows no tool marks or major issues. The nut is only finger tight, allowing for easy break down for inspection and cleaning. The grip is the earlier style and is likely a replacement but still third Reich era and authentic. The grip is in very nice shape with no major damage. There is a superficial crack on each side running through the ruin area which is pretty common and doesn’t affect the dagger in a negative fashion. The SS ruin is the silvered tombak type and outside of some light verdigris and wear, is in excellent shape. The grip eagle is the late zinc style and the fit is actually pretty darn good for an RZM piece. The scabbard seems to have been repainted and then not fully cured before it was handled, as we can see some fabric patterns on it. The scabbard fittings are nickel plated steel as they should be. There is one screw missing and the lower ones show heavy turn marks. No doubt the result of the armature who tried to repaint the scabbard at some point. There is a little ding on the ball end which is pretty typical. A well used and worn leather belt clip that is RZM marked finishes the dagger off.