Germany, DLV. An Air Sports Association Model 1934 Flyers Knife, by F. & A. HELBIG

(Deutsche Luftsport-Verband Fliegermesser). A very well-preserved German Air Sports Association (DLV) Model 1934 Flyers Knife, measuring 340 mm in length when inserted into the scabbard. It features a 175 mm-long magnetic metal blade with a sharpened tip and moderately sharpened edges. The blade presents plain, with the exception of a maker’s mark near the reverse ricasso reading “F. & A. HELBIG, STEINBACH KR. M.”. The blade sits securely within a ribbed nickel-silver upper crossguard, the seam of which is covered by an intact blue leather buffer pad. Both the obverse and reverse of the crossguard features a central insignia in the form of a black mobile swastika. The handle grip is comprised of a piece of texted blue leather, and the knife completes with a rounded pommel. It is accompanied by its period original scabbard, constructed of a magnetic metal shaft covered with texted blue leather. Decorative metal fixtures are secured to both the tip and throat with dual side rivets. The the throat fixture retains a functional spring catch, securely holding the knife in place during storage. Emanating from the same fixture is an integral loop and suspension ring connecting to a nickel-silver hanger, retaining a functional magnetic metal spring clip, and a brown leather strap. Issues consistent with age and use are evident, and include wear and deterioration of the leather elements, running marks and oxidation of the blade, and some loss of finish to the nickel-silver features. The knife is in an overall better than very fine condition.