Original Imperial German WWI DEMAG Crank Handle Ersatz Trench Knife Bayonet with Scabbard - Missing Belt Loop

Original Item: Only One Available. A very recognizable but nevertheless a very scarce original German WWI bayonet. This is an original Imperial German Aufpflanzbarer Grabendolch or Fixable Trench Knife - Bayonet, often referred to by collectors as the DEMAG. These have been reproduced in India and elsewhere, but never matching the quality of this original German first world war production.

The bayonet has a short double edged dagger blade of 6", marked DEMAG / [DUI]SBURG in a circle in front of the steel cross guard on the blade ricasso. The reverse ricasso is marked GESETZLICH / GESCHÜTZT and indicates that the knife design is registered with the German Trademark office. These were produced by Deutsche Maschinenfabrik A-G (DEMAG) of Duisburg as private purchase items.

The overall length is about 10 1/2 inches, and the blade has been sharpened a bit, but not shortened. The unique "CRANK HANDLE" grip is constructed from two steel stampings riveted together, in the typical "Ersatz" (replacement) style of construction. This grip fits the standard Gewehr 98 (GEW 98) Mauser bolt action magazine Rifle carried by German Infantry throughout WW1. The hilt shows heavy wear and paint loss but there is still some green remaining. 

The knife comes complete with its original all steel scabbard, but the leather belt loop and securing strap are gone, lost very long ago. This example shows heavy age, as well as some service wear. It still has a fully intact cross guard, complete with the muzzle rest, but it is missing the leather blade washer. The black paint of the scabbard is almost entirely absent.

In good condition, ready to display!

Specifications:
Blade Length: 6"
Blade Style: Double Edge Spear Point.
Overall length: 10 1/2“
Crossguard: 2 1/2”
Scabbard Length: 6 1/4"