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Maker
Helbig F.&A. GAEFLER, Steinbach
Model
M1936
Blade
single-edged
Length
157 mm (260 mm)
Weight
298 g
Condition
NEAR MINT
German Paratrooper Gravity Knife by F.&A. Helbig (GAEFLER) Steinbach
Rare Luftwaffe paratrooper gravity knife manufactured by F.&A. Helbig (GAEFLER), Steinbach. Produced in the late 1930s for aircrew and paratroopers, this model belongs to the rarest variants of the German gravity knife.
Grip: Dark brown w Walnut grip plates with typical Thüringen craftsmanship. The pivoting belt loop is secured with diagonally placed rivets – a distinctive identifying feature of Helbig production. Springs remain strong and fully functional.
Blade: Single-edged gravity blade made of stainless steel with clearly visible maker mark “F.&A. Helbig (GAEFLER) Steinbach Kr.M.”. The blade deploys freely by gravity once the release lever is pressed. Near the blade root is the original Luftwaffe acceptance stamp with stylized eagle.
Marlin Spike: Folding spike with strong spring tension, used for loosening cords or parachute lines. The tang features a typical Thüringen inspection or assembly mark.
Condition: A very well-preserved example from an extremely scarce manufacturer. All components remain original, tight, and fully operational — an excellent example of authentic Helbig production.
Historical Note:
The Luftwaffe gravity knife was issued as part of the emergency equipment of pilots and aircrew, and was also carried by paratroopers. Its gravity-operated mechanism allowed quick, one-handed use, even when wearing gloves.
The manufacturer F.&A. Helbig (GAEFLER), Steinbach, participated in a decentralized wartime production program intended to reduce reliance on Solingen during air raids. Helbig produced only very small numbers of the early, non-takedown Type I gravity knife, making surviving examples among the rarest Luftwaffe knives ever issued.
Key characteristics of Helbig production include diagonally placed rivets, a slightly elongated flat spring, simplified internal components, and the distinctive Luftwaffe inspection stamp on the spike tang.
Because of their rarity, regional manufacture, and technical differences from Solingen-made knives, Helbig gravity knives are highly prized by collectors today.
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