Germany, RAD. A Subordinate’s Hewer, with Hanger, by Eduard Wüsthof

(Reichsarbeitsdienst Hauer für Mannschaften und Unterführer). A very well-preserved Reichsarbeitsdienst (Reich Labour Service/RAD) Subordinate’s Hewer, measuring 39.5 cm in total length when inserted into the scabbard. It features a 24.5 cm-long, nickel-plated, magnetic steel blade with a slight curvature, sharpened tip and lower edge, and with a narrow fuller running the majority of the length of the top edge of each side. Acid-etched onto the obverse is an inscription of “ARBEIT ADELT” (“LABOUR ENNOBLES”), while the reverse ricasso bears a maker’s mark of “ED. WÜSTHOF, SOLINGEN”, circumscribing the firm’s trident logo, in turn topped by a Reichsleitung des Arbeitsdienstes (RLAD) insignia. The blade sits securely within a nickel-plated magnetic metal hilt with a hooked quillon and pommel. Two pieces of polished staghorn comprise the handle grip, and are secured together with dual non-magnetic metal rivets. It is accompanied by its original scabbard, constructed of a black painted magnetic metal shaft. Polished magnetic metal fixtures are secured to both the tip and throat, with the former bearing double-sided RAD insignia and the latter bearing knotted and ribbed designs. Emanating from the side of the throat fixtures is a loop for the accommodation of a hanger, which is included and consists of a functional magnetic metal spring clip affixed to a black leather backer, in turn looped to black leather strap for uniform suspension. The throat has a functional spring catch to firmly hold the hewer in place during storage. Minor issues consistent with age and wear are evident, and include some tarnishing and running marks to the blade and scratching of scabbard paint. This complete set remains in an extremely fine condition.