The second pattern Luftwaffe dagger was introduced in 1937. Various officer ranks wore the dagger and
there was no visible difference between them.
The biggest changes between the first model and the second model were the pommel and the hand guard. A
detailed account of the construction of the dagger follows:
The blade was of type stiletto with the main features being a double edge and a flat plain in its center. The
brand of the manufacturer would normally be placed on the blade. The example shown in this page has no manufacturer's
markings.
The grip was manufactured from celluloid and consisted of a grooved spiral design. A wire composed of three
strands was placed in the groove. The wire was aluminum and silver in appearance. The grip was available in
white, yellow or orange. If the buyer had the necessary finances, it was possible to purchase ivory grips.
The various types of grips available were strictly a matter of purchaser preference and not a symbol of rank
or status within the Luftwaffe.
This dagger was produced by a very large number of manufacturers.
All the metal fittings on the second model Luftwaffe dagger were manufactured from cast aluminum. The scabbard
had smooth sides with a oakleaf design near its tip end and pebbled finish throught most of its body. The sample
shown below has some of its plating missing exposing the bare metal.
The pommel was rounded and featured a swatika. When the dagger was originally manufactured, the pommel
was gold. However, with the passing of time this color has dissappeared from most of the examples available
in the market.
The top of the scabbard reflects both light and dark areas. The light area indicates a section where the eagle on the handguard
prevented the change in color.
Notice the granular design applied to the back of the hand guard. This design could vary considerably depending
on the manufacturer.
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