*German, WW2, c1937, Third Reich 2nd Pattern Luftwaffe Officers Dagger (Fliegerdolch), Made by Puma Solingen, & Scabbard with Hanger*
Blade is marked: Puma Logo, Puma, Solingen
Hanger is marked: DRGM (Deutsches Reichsgebrauchsmuster), A (Assmann, Lüdenscheid)
Approximately 38.9cm overall
A M1937 Fliegerdolch by Puma of Solingen. Here we have a M1937 2nd Model Luftwaffe Dagger (Fliegerdolch) by Puma (Pumawerk Lauterjung & Sohn) of Solingen. Good amber celluloid gripped example with twist wire binding. The blade bears the Puma logo, Puma, Solingen. Aluminium cross guard and langet bearing an eagle and swastika; the pommel ornamented with swastika in oakleaves. Housed in its plated metal scabbard fitted with two suspension rings, accompanied by its hanger. The upper spring clip that would affix this to a uniform is nicely marked with the stylized “A” logo of Assmann in Lüdenscheid, and “DRGM” indicating a trademarked design.
Background:
The Luftwaffe dagger holds a unique historical significance. After World War I, Germany was prohibited from having an Air Force. However, in 1933, the Nazis established the Deutscher Luftsport-Verband (DLV), a paramilitary aviation organization. DLV officers were distinguished by wearing a long dagger. In 1935, Adolf Hitler violated the Treaty of Versailles by creating the new German armed forces known as the Wehrmacht, which included the Luftwaffe as one of its branches. During this time, Luftwaffe officers began wearing the first model Luftwaffe dagger, which was a shortened version of the earlier DLV dagger.
The first model Luftwaffe dagger had a scabbard covered in blue leather and a blue grip wrapped with wire. The cross guard featured a round swastika known as the “sunwheel,” flanked by stylized “wings.” The pommel took the form of a vertical disc, featuring another larger swastika. In 1937, the Luftwaffe introduced a new dagger design, known as the second pattern. This second model resembled the daggers worn by officers in the German Army. It had a metal scabbard with impressed decoration and lacked a leather covering. The crossguard displayed a Luftwaffe eagle clutching a swastika. The blue grip of the first model was replaced with orange, white, or yellow options. The choice of grip colour was a matter of personal preference and did not indicate branch or rank. The pommel of the second model featured a swastika surrounded by an oak leaves motif. The blades of these daggers were made of steel, and while many were manufacturer marked, not all possessed such markings.
Puma-Werk
Puma-Werk, originally founded by Nathanael Lauterjung in Solingen, Germany, in 1855, evolved into a renowned knife and cutlery manufacturer. The company, formally registered as "Puma-Werk" in 1900, gained prominence across Europe by the early 20th century. During World War II, Puma became a significant supplier of edged weapons, including daggers, knives, and swords, for the Wehrmacht and NSDAP. Post-war, the company shifted focus to high-quality hunting, fishing, and outdoor knives, overcoming setbacks like a fire in 1979. Now part of the Hindrichs family group, Puma celebrated 250 years of knife-making heritage in 2019 and continues to produce handmade knives globally.
*Condition*
In good condition – the blade is in great condition with no nicks or pitting. The grip is similarly good, the orange trylon grip has a chip, the buffer pad is present. The scabbard is undented and fits snugly. The hanger has some fading as to be expected and the straps are sound but have wear damage to the edges. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
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