Kemper Ernst, Solingen

Kemper Ernst, Solingen

Ernst Kemper: A Rare Manufacturer from Solingen

The Ernst Kemper, Stahlwarenfabrik, was founded in 1899 in Solingen. The company specialized in steel goods production and expanded during the Nazi era to edged weapons, particularly early SA daggers (1933-1936). The location in Solingen underscores the region's tradition as a center for blade production in Germany. Reichsgau (SA): B (Berlin), Ha (Halle-Merseburg), He (Hessen-Nassau), No (Nord), Nrh (Niederrhein), Om (Ostmark).

The firm produced approximately 1.000 SA service daggers (Sturmabteilung), rated with a rarity of 5/5 as extremely rare. These daggers bear the motto “Alles für Deutschland” and typically feature nickel-plated grips with detailed emblems. Other products include cutlery, gift items, as well as bread, meat, and vegetable knives. The blades often have a bright polish with visible cross-hatching, moderate signs of use, and occasional spots. No further activity known after World War II; the company likely did not survive the war.

The logo of Ernst Kemper features the maker-mark “Ernst Kemper / Solingen” etched on the blade, often in simple script. The design conveys a classic aesthetic and was typically applied to blades.

Today, the products of Ernst Kemper are coveted collectibles that embody the historical development of the Solingen manufacturer history in the edged weapons industry. The limited production and focus on Nazi weapons make them an important example of the Nazi era, ideal for an encyclopedia on blank weapons manufacturers. We are interested in purchasing products from this manufacturer.