Glossary of edged weapons

SA Dagger Terminology & Construction | Encyclopedia for Collectors

SA Dagger Terminology & Construction | DG.DE

SA Dagger – Terminology & Construction

The SA dagger is one of the most iconic edged weapons of the Third Reich era, carried by members of the Sturmabteilung (SA). To properly describe and identify the weapon, it is essential to understand its individual parts and their correct terminology.

Parts of the SA Dagger

No.	Term	Description
1	Pommel Screw	Screw at the top of the pommel securing the tang within the grip.
2	Upper Crossguard	Metal fitting between the grip and blade, serving as hand protection.
3	SA Roundel	Round emblem with the SA logo, inlaid into the grip.
4	Grip Eagle	Metal eagle inlaid into the grip, originally featuring a swastika (removed or covered on most modern displays).
5	Grip	Usually made of wood, ergonomically shaped for secure handling.
6	Lower Crossguard	Second metal fitting at the transition to the blade, also providing hand protection.
7	Maker's Mark	Engraving or etching of the manufacturer's logo on the blade.
8	Motto	Inscription "Alles für Deutschland" ("Everything for Germany") on the blade.
9	Blade	Main part of the weapon, single-edged, made of steel.
10	Throat Fitting	Metal fitting at the upper part of the scabbard protecting the blade entry area.
11	Upper Scabbard Fitting	Decorative and protective fitting at the top of the scabbard, often with a suspension ring.
12	Suspension Ring	Metal ring for attaching the dagger hanger.
13	Hanger Ring	Ring used to attach the dagger to the uniform.
14	Dagger Hanger	Leather strap for carrying the dagger on the belt.
15	Scabbard Tip	Lower end of the scabbard.
16	Lower Scabbard Fitting	Protective fitting at the lower end of the scabbard.
17	Ball Finial	Rounded end piece at the bottom of the scabbard.

Historical Context

The SA dagger was introduced in 1933 and originally served as an honorary and service dagger for SA members. It quickly became a symbol of affiliation within the organization. The blade inscription "Alles für Deutschland" was largely ceremonial, emphasizing representation rather than practical combat use.

Manufacturing

The production of SA daggers was carried out by various manufacturers, primarily from Solingen. Notable producers include:

E.P.&S. (Ernst Pack & Söhne)
Eickhorn
RZM-certified manufacturers

The quality of these daggers varied depending on the production period and the manufacturer.

Collector Notes

Early daggers (1933–1936) are known for their superior craftsmanship.
Later RZM models were standardized and often of simpler quality.
Authentic examples typically show natural signs of aging on the blade and fittings.

Related Terms

Crossguard – Hand guard of an edged weapon
Tang – Part of the blade running through the grip
Scabbard – Protective sheath for the blade