DLV Flyers Knife – SMF

Product Description:  An exceptionally well-preserved Model 1934 DLV Flyers Knife (Deutscher Luftfahrt-Verband Fliegermesser) produced by the renowned Solingen firm SMF (Solinger Metallwarenfabrik Stoecker & Co.). The blade retains a sharp tip, strong crossgraining, and a rock-solid fit within the hilt. The deeply acid-etched “SMF Solingen” maker’s mark remains superbly executed, with crisp detail and rich, dark contrast, rating in excellent condition. Blade shows runner marks and spotting visible throughout, consistent with age and use. The original blue pebbled leather buffer pad is intact.

The steel-based scabbard, clad in its original blue pebbled leather, presents beautifully, with a tight seam, a small spot of leather loss towards lower fitting, minor color loss, and light scuffing and pressure marks. The solid nickel-silver fittings remain excellent, with all four screws tight and undisturbed. The throat bears the distinctive winged man motif, and the dagger-to-scabbard fit is exemplary. Matching solid nickel-silver hilt fittings display impressive original lacquer, harmonizing elegantly with the scabbard’s patina.

The wood-based grip, wrapped in matching blue pebbled leather, remains in outstanding condition, showing only light wear to the black enamel swastikas within the crossguard medallions. The terminal of the crossguard bears the correct caster’s “K” marking. Completing the ensemble is the original hanger showing leather loss and wear, the original metal supports remain under the leather keeping the strap structurally intact.

Overall, this DLV Flyers Knife by SMF represents an exceptional and well-matched example—an outstanding piece that would enhance even the most advanced collection of early Luftwaffe or Third Reich edged weapons.

Historical Description: The Deutscher Luftsportverband (DLV) was an organization created by the NSDAP in March 1933. The “Sport” in the name helped to conceal the fact that the DLV were not really a sport organization, but rather was made up of units that conducted military flight training- specifically, the training of military pilots, contravening the Treaty of Versailles stipulation that Germany was not to have any air force. The head of the DLV was Hermann Göring, and Ernst Röhm was the deputy chief. The organization was formed from a number of pre-existing flight clubs. The various SA “Fliegersturm” units were disbanded, and their personnel rolled into the DLV, with an increased focus on military style flight training rather than air sports. The DLV was a uniformed organization, and wore uniforms similar to that of the SA, but with distinctive insignia and rank structure. In 1937, the DLV was disbanded; the successor organization was the Nationalsozialistisches Fliegerkorps (NSFK).

We are the leading team of military antique specialists. We have specialized in military antiques for over 25 years.

Epic Artifacts offers free evaluations and the highest prices available for your collectibles.

We purchase single items, entire collections, or family estates.

Click the link here to learn more: Free Evaluation or Inquiries 

or feel free to email us directly: info@epicartifacts.com