BACKGROUND: Requests from Fallschirmjäger, (Paratrooper), personnel for a knife that could be utilized with just one hand resulted in the development of the Flieger-Kappmesser, (Flight Utility Knife), in May 1937. The internal blade was activated by an external press lever which relieved pressure on an internal leaf spring, and by pointing the knife downwards, gravity allowed the blade to slide out into the open position. Although officially designated Flieger-Kappmesser, due to the blades gravity action it was commonly referred to as the Schwerkkraftmesser, (Force of Gravity Knife). The first pattern knives had a rigid, fixed handle and if problems were encountered with the internal spring leaf, the sliding gravity action of the blade, or the blade itself, it was rendered useless. This problem was overcome with the development of the second "takedown" pattern which had a removable throat piece and handles, allowing access to the internal components for repair. Of Note: Although originally developed for Paratroopers this knife was eventually issued to all aircrew personnel and was also included in the flight survival equipment.

PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION: The roughly, 6" long, second pattern, "takedown" knife features nicely grained, natural hardwood grips and tooled, steel fittings. The wooden grips are secured by four, small, flush, flat head rivets. The external fittings consist of a removable, scalloped tipped, throat with a push button lock, an activating pressure lever, a spine, a rivetted swivel "D" ring and a fold down marlin spike. The "D" ring has a piece of twisted blue twine tied in place and the marlin spike is well marked with a stamped Luftwaffe style waffen-amt. All of the steel fittings have reverted to an age darkened, flat matte grey. The knife has a roughly, 4 1/8" drop forged steel construction, single edged blade. The blade shows light surface spotting, and a small chip near the tip and some of the original cross-graining is still evident. The obverse ricasso is well marked with the acid etched manufacturer’s logo. The logo consists of a vertically oval cartouche with the manufacturer’s name and location, "Paul Weyersberg & Co. Solingen", encompassing a downward pointing broadsword flanked by a stylized, opened top, laurel leave wreath. The removable, scalloped tipped, throat has an impressed arrow which is pointed at the locking push button. When depressed the locking push button allows the throat piece to be removed permitting access to the internal components of the knife for ease of repair. The gravity action of the blade and the internal locking mechanism both still function but are slightly sticky.

GRADE ***                             PRICE $1,015.00