Germany, RAD. A Subordinate’s Hewer, by Lauterjung & Co.

(Haumesser für Männer der Reichsarbeitsdienst). A very well-preserved Reich Labour Service (RAD) subordinate’s hewer, measuring 40 cm in total length when inserted into the scabbard. It features a 25 cm-long polished magnetic steel blade with a Bowie-style curvature. The tip and lower edge of the blade are sharpened, and a narrow fuller runs the length of each side. Acid-etched onto the obverse is an inscription of “ARBEIT ADELT” (“LABOUR ENNOBLES”) in Fraktur script. The reverse ricasso features a maker’s mark of “TIGER, SOLINGEN” for the firm of Lauterjung & Co., topped by its classic tiger logo. This is topped by a Reichsleitung des Reichsarbeitsdienst (RLAD) mark. The blade sits securely within a one-piece, nickel-plated magnetic metal hilt. The latter has an upper crossguard, with a curved, protruding quillon. The crossguard transitions into a handle with a curved pommel working in tandem with the crossguard to facilitate a secure grip. The handle grip is composed of two pieces of polished staghorn, held together by dual non-magnetic metal rivets. It is accompanied by its period original scabbard, constructed of a black-painted magnetic metal shaft. Two polished nickel-silver plated fixtures are secured to the throat and tip with dual side rivets. The tip fixture bears a double-sided etched RAD logo, while the throat features intricate knotted designs. Emanating from the throat fixture is an integral loop for the accommodation of a hanger. The latter is included and consists of a two-piece magnetic metal buckle, in turn culminating in a black leather loop for uniform suspension. Issues consistent with age and wear are evident, and include some tarnishing of the blade, minor oxidation of the nickel-plated features, scratching of the scabbard paint, and fatigue of the leather hanger. The hewer is in an overall better than very fine condition.