THIRD REICH RIFLE ASSOCIATION HIRSCHFÄNGER W/DOUBLE TRADEMARK
HOLD

For our new JRB&M Featured Item, I have decided to select, for a change, a standard model Third Reich dress dagger - a standard Rifle Association Hirschfänger by Clemen & Jung. While this model sidearm can hardly be considered rare, what is unusual is the Exc++ condition grading that this particular dagger merits. In today's marketplace, it is extremely difficult to find a Rifle Association dagger with a perfect grip. Invariably, the paper thin fluted celluloid grip will bear one or more hairline cracks affecting the overall appearance. Here is the opportunity to add this often overlooked model Third Reich dagger to your collection or to upgrade an existing one with one or more hairline cracks in the grip. The specimen that we are offering is complete with a perfect condition grip. The primary objective of the large German Rifle Association was to promote interest among the civilian populace in competitive sport shooting (similar in nature and scope to the National Rifle Association (NRA) in the U.S. today).

Clemen & Jung in a curve over Solingen (obverse) and a stylized "Z" over a crowned shield (reverse) TM. Nickel-plated hilt fittings show minor wear, but no lifting to the fluted pommel with dome-head pommel nut, rubbed ferrule and recurved crossguard with acorn motif quillons.

The oval clamshell with raised edge features a raised oak and laurel leaf border surrounding the properly pinned, silver-over-copper Rifle Association insignia which shows minor wear to the silver, but no damage to the black/white enamel on the central eagle/shooting target motif.

The white, fluted celluloid grip is perfect with no cracks or chips and complete with gilt crossed rifles properly pinned to the obverse.

The polished, double-etched blade measuring 15 ¾" in length grades EX+/EX++ showing minor surface wear with minor gray shadowing and a few gray spots on the obverse ricasso, but no pitting or nicks to the cutting edge. The obverse etch pattern features a shooting target with hunting equipment and fox and hound in forest setting, while the reverse etch pattern features hunting equipment and a stag in forest setting. Both etched scenes are surrounded by floral motifs with 100% of the background frosting remaining, and blade is complete with an original brown leather buffer pad.

The black leather scabbard shows minor surface wear/swelling, but no creases, rips or tears and no damage to the reverse stitching. Dent-free, nickel-plated upper and lower scabbard fittings show only light surface wear with no lifting or crazing and are complete with retaining staples. EX++ (26198) $1,895.

Johnson Reference Books and Militaria
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Fredericksburg, VA 22405
Phone (540) 373-9150
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