Unusual Old Knife

[Zilmo]

Really cool old German folder that opens to about 17 inches overall. The inscription transcribes to read " To the winner of the hand grenade contest from Division Commander Lieutenant General Loel".

 

[FirearmsEnthusiast]

Interesting, never seen a knife like that before.

 

[Gordon]

Very, very Kewl

 

[Searcher1970]

Is it a automatic?

 

[hso]

Great piece! They're referred to as D'Estaings.

It should be an auto. Your's is in great condition. I'm envious.

 

[Zilmo]

Is it a automatic?

No, it is not an automatic.

 

[hso]

I'm surprised that it's not. Great knife regardless and I'm still envious.

 

[Gunfighter123]

That is a VERY FINE looking older blade --- any idea about it's age ??

 

[Zilmo]

That is a VERY FINE looking older blade --- any idea about it's age ??

The makers mark puts it between WWI and WWII. It is not Nazi proof marked.

 

[Searcher1970]

My guess would be around WW1. That type of folding knife was popular in the early 20th century. I'm surprised its not a auto too. Great looking knife regardless Does it lock in the closed position? The reason I ask is there is a small detent in the blade.

 

[Zilmo]

My guess would be around WW1. That type of folding knife was popular in the early 20th century. I'm surprised its not a auto too. Great looking knife regardless Does it lock in the closed position? The reason I ask is there is a small detent in the blade.

Yes, the button must be depressed for it to open.

 

[ArfinGreebly]

Button?

Yes, the button must be depressed for it to open.

Which would lead me to believe that either there was a spring in there, or there still is a spring, but it's broken.

Just guessing.

 

[Zilmo]

Which would lead me to believe that either there was a spring in there, or there still is a spring, but it's broken.

Just guessing.

Could be I suppose.

 

[hso]

If it is an auto with a broken spring, the broken stub may be in the slot in the handle or the slot may be visible. The slot would be in the "spacer" opposite the pivot. The spring would be an arched flat spring, like a leaf spring, with a tip in contact with the ricasso of the blade. They often broke 2/3 of the way towards the slot.

 

[twaits]

My Dad has a knife that opens just like this. He bought in in Germany back in the '50s. They aren't automatic. It just has a short blade when closed an a longer blade when opened. Really neat knives.