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, first pattern, rigid, fixed handle knife features nicely grained, natural hardwood grips and tooled, nickel/silver plated, steel fittings. The wooden grips are secured by four, small, flush, flat head rivets. The external fittings consist of a scalloped tipped throat, an activating pressure lever, a spine, a rivetted swivel "D" ring and a fold down Marlin spike. The nickel/silver plating is retained about 95% and is still quite bright with some light surface scratching. The activating pressure lever has a deeply stamped numeral, "685", that is presumably a parts number. The roughly, 4" long, nickel/silver plated, single edged, drop forged, steel blade is still quite clean with some minor surface scratches and a couple of small dings to the cutting edge. The blade is well marked with the acid etched manufacturer’s logo and script consisting of a stylized, seated King holding a upward, pointed sword and, "SMF Solingen Rostfrei", indicating manufacture by Solingen Metallwaren-Fabrik Stocker & Co. Solingen, rust free. The marlin spike is also well marked with the typical deeply stamped Luftwaffe style waffen-amt. The gravity action of the blade and the internal locking mechanism both still function.

GRADE ***3/4                             PRICE $820.00