reprossprototype.jpg (140283 bytes)An early reproduction of a genuine SS prototype dagger crafted by Alcoso.  The original surfaced at a Florida gun show in 1975 when the WWII veteran brought it to the show to sell.  This reproduction is entirely hand-crafted and is probably one of a kind.  In addition to the fact that it does not match the original prototype drawings, the telltale signs that this is a reproduction are a) the presence of a post-war portapee, b) poor casting of the crossguard, and c) a reproduction scabbard.

 

reprossprototype2.jpg (122075 bytes)Another SS fantasy piece crafted from many original parts.  The blade is adorned with a blued-panel and the inscriptions Das Deutsche Heer der Waffen-SS (obverse) and fur besondere Tapferkeit (reverse).  In addition to the identification points listed on the piece to the left, the craftsmanship of the scabbard embellishments is poor.  In addition, the oakleaf band that is attached to the scabbard was inspired by the Goring Industrial Dagger.
npea.jpg (223649 bytes)A "presentation NPEA dagger of unknown origin.  Reproduction characteristics of this piece include ill-fitting handle components, and a reproduction damascus blade.   The tang is stamped "1939" - thus conforming to a number of real damascus blades crafted by Paul Muller after the war.  The obverse of the blade depicts a raised and gilted NPEA motto.  This piece was aquired by a collector on Ebay. bayonete.jpg (282104 bytes)Bayonete manufactured by Reddick Enterprises.  These bayonets are crafted using mostly leftover period parts (the buffer pad and the stag grips are post war).  What is striking about these pieces, which do not come with scabbards, is the superior construction - they are made as good if not better than the originals.   Identification points of spurious engraved blades includes very stiff buffer pads, raised handle rivets, and overall STONE MINT construction.
reprosahighleader.jpg (179469 bytes)A high quality SA High Leader Dagger.  One dentification point of this piece are the "bordered" crossguard panels (the original crossguards have no border around the oakleaves).  Blade is artificial "large rosebud" damascus, another ID point since SA High Leader Daggers are constructed of maidenhair pattern damascus.  Notice that the grip eagle is nicely inset (the entire grip may be original).  Parts are beautifully antiqued - possibly silver plated.  Definitely one of the better reproductions I've seen of this rare dagger.  This example is from the collection of Tom Wittmann, and was purchased by him early in his career.  It is featured in his book on Army Daggers in a section warning collectors against reproductions.

 

reprorrwatprotect.jpg (142805 bytes)Another early reproduction.  This Railway Water Protection Police dagger - the rarest of the railway daggers.  The identification points include a poorly crafted Eickhorn blade, a slightly crooked crossguard - due in part to the uneaven handle construction.  On this example, the handle spirals are uneavenly ground, and the lower edge is cut on edge (pushing the crossguard into a skewed position).  The hanger bands are slightly smaller than the original bands, and the rings are not welded shut.  The scabbard tip also lacks detail to the lower pebbled panel border.  The crossguard, pommel, and ferrule rings are very nicely crafted.   Replace the scabbard and reshape the handle and you'll have a very convincing reproduction of a very rare dagger.
reproseacustoms.jpg (168034 bytes)Reproduction Sea Customs dagger.  This dagger, while nicer than the modern reproductions, is definitely not a "dead-ringer" for the original.  The scabbard and handle are plastic (the leather pattern is part of the plastic).  The upper scabbard fitting is of "one-piece" construction and lacks detail.  All parts should be gilted, but are not.  Double engraved blade is very poorly etched - no match for original etching.  Unconvincing to the trained eye, this piece could fool many beginning collectors.