Germany, DLV. A Flyer’s Knife, by Stöcker & Co.

(Deutscher Luftsportverband Fliegermesser). A Deutscher Luftsportverband (German Air Sports Association/DLV) Flyer’s Knife, measuring 34 cm in total length when inserted into the scabbard. It features an 18 cm-long, nickel-plated, magnetic steel blade which retains factory-original sharpening to both the edges and tip. The reverse ricasso is maker marked with the seated king logo of Stöcker & Co. Solingen. The blade sits securely within a nickel-plated alloy crossguard which takes the form of a pair of stylized wings, both sides of which are inset with central gilded sunwheel-style mobile swastikas. The handle consists of a wooden core fully lined on the exterior with a dark blue Moroccan leather liner, while the hilt culminates in a nickel-plated alloy pommel which screws in to maintain the knife’s structural integrity. It is accompanied by its original scabbard, constructed of a magnetic metal shaft which is similarly in dark blue Moroccan leather. Nickel-plated non-magnetic metal fixtures are secured to both the tip and throat with side rivets, while the latter retains a loop for the accommodation of a hanger. The former is included, and consists of a dark blue Moroccan leather strap retaining a functional nickel-plated metal spring clip for uniform suspension. A functional catch situated within the throat holds the knife in place during storage. A stamped DLV logo is visible adjacent to the throat opening. Issues consistent with age and wear are evident, and include some running marks to the blade, loss of nickel-plating to the applicable fixtures, and moderate to significant material fatigue throughout the leather features. This early example remains in a very fine condition.