SOLD - Luftwaffe Gravity Knife by Rare Maker F.&A. Helbig

Description

7/17/24 - This is a Gravity Knife issued to the Luftwaffe during WWII, manufactured by F.&A. Helbig, who produced a small fraction of these compared to the far more common Weyerberg and SMF examples. Helbig Gravity Knives exhibit several notable design changes. The throat is a slightly different shape, as is the collar beneath it, being slightly more bulbous than typically encountered, and the hinged area of the marlin spike is a bit more rounded. The individual parts aren't numbered, also in contrast to typical examples. Correctly Waffen proofed on the hinged area. The blade is marked with the rarely seen trademark of the F. & A HELBIG firm; pair of ellipses enclose the firm's name and location of "STEINBACH KR.M.." Inside the ellipses is the Helbig script Gaesler trademark logo, and beneath is "ROSTFREI", the German word for stainless steel. The blade is in good used condition, with areas of surface scratching, patina, and a couple very minor chips, and it has likely been sharpened. The right side of the hilt also shows a good deal of surface scratching and some impact marks. Blade operation is smooth, and lockup is relatively tight. The walnut grip panels are in mostly good shape, but there are areas of concentrated wear on the bottom of the left panel and top of the right panel. The four retaining rivets are well secured and properly recessed. The marlin spike is in excellent condition, and its spring is tight and functions smoothly.