WW2 (Nazi Germany) Red Cross Saw Back Hewer & Scabbard

This German Red Cross (Deutsches Rotes Kreuz - DRK) saw back Hewer was introduced in 1938. It had one cutting edge, one saw back edge, & a "blunt-nose tip". It was dual purposed as a ceremonial dress dagger & a purpose designed practical medical knife for preparing splints, casts, & bandages. Unique to most Nazi daggers, the blunt nose point was to avoid violating Geneva Conventions prohibitions against medical personnel carrying "offensive" weapons.

Another distinguishing fact, unlike other Nazi German dress daggers that were privately purchased, the Red Cross EM Hewer was not, it was issued to medical personnel from unit stocks. Manufacturing of this dagger ceased in 1940.

Description:
Generally bright blade with a handful of black oxidation patches w/some typical runner marks. The original leather blade buffer pad is intact. It features a black checkered Bakelite grip at the obverse & a smooth bakelite grip at the reverse (of which, a small section below the lower fixing screw is missing), both held in place by the original fixing screws.

The scabbard is constructed of black-painted steel & retains most of the original black enamel finish w/some paint loss in scattered areas. It's complete with its original 4 screws

This DRK Red Cross Hewer is a nice, solid piece still in great condition & is priced accordingly.

History:
The DRK, was a voluntary civil assistance organization originally instituted in 1864 & acknowledged by the Geneva Convention in 1929. It became legally recognized as an official organization in 1938 controlled by the NSDAP under the auspices of the German Ministry of the Interior's Social Welfare Organization. The same year, this specific purpose & unique edged weapon was introduced for DRK enlisted personnel, referred to as the "Hauer für Mannschaften" (or Red Cross EM Hewer).

Measurements (approximate):
Overall Length: 15 3/4”
Blade Length: 10.5"”
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WW2 (Nazi Germany) Red Cross
Saw Back Hewer & Scabbard

$695.00

Unique to most Nazi daggers, the blunt nose point
was to avoid violating Geneva Conventions prohibitions
against medical personnel carrying "offensive" weapons.
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