Germany, DRK. An Enlisted Ranks Hewer

(Deutsches Rotes Kreuz Hauer für Mannschaften und Unterführer). A well-preserved Deutsches Rotes Kreuz (German Red Cross/DRK) Enlisted ranks hewer, measuring 41.5 cm in total length when inserted into the scabbard. It features a 27 cm-long, nickel-plated, magnetic steel blade with a blunted tip, serrated lower edge, and with fullers running the majority of the length of each side. The blade sits securely within a nickel-plated alloy hilt, with the obverse of the crossguard bearing an oval medallion topped by a DRK-style German national eagle. An intact black leather buffer pad covers the seam where the blade connects with the hilt. Two pieces of pebbled black bakelite compose the handle grip, and are secured together with dual magnetic metal rivets. The hewer is accompanied by its original scabbard, constructed of a black-painted magnetic metal shaft with plated magnetic fixtures secured to both the tip and throat. A downward-pointing hook emanates from the side of the shaft for the accommodation of a frog. The latter is included and consists of multiple panels of black leather riveted into a loop for belt suspension. The throat of the scabbard retains a functional spring catch to firmly hold the hewer in place during storage. Unmarked, the hewer demonstrates issues consistent with age and wear, including some running marks and tarnishing to the blade, pitting to the nickel-plated features, sporadic loss of scabbard paint, and some fatigue of the frog. The hewer remains in an overall very fine condition.