Rifle Association Dagger by Holler

Product Description:  A rare Rifle Association Dagger by Holler, highly sought after and notably absent from many collections. The blade is elegantly etched on both sides, exhibiting crisp detail with only minimal age patina, and is stamped on the reverse with Holler’s distinctive “thermometer” maker’s mark. The handle retains plated fittings and a cream-colored grip, which shows a puncture and crack; the original crossed rifle emblem has been replaced with a U.S. Infantry rifle insignia, likely installed by a returning American veteran.

Accompanied by its original brown leather blade buffer, fully intact, the dagger is missing the original scabbard. Despite the condition issues of the grip, this Rifle Association Dagger by Holler remains a rare and historically significant example of mid-20th-century marksmanship regalia, combining fine craftsmanship with a unique narrative of wartime provenance.

Historical Description: Hunting is a sport with a long tradition in Germany. As with any long tradition, it grew to become a practice steeped in ritual. Hunters generally were members of hunting clubs and organizations, which had permission to hunt specific state-owned forests, under the auspices of forestry organizations. Both the members of the hunting clubs, and those involved in forestry, had traditional hunting clothes, a sort of regalia that by the time of the Third Reich, had evolved into a uniform. These men carried traditional hunting daggers and cutlasses as part of their regalia. These was an almost infinite variety of these edged weapons, made by many makers, and available in countless styles to suit individual preferences. Some of these hunting daggers and cutlasses were mostly utilitarian and practical. They were used for the final thrust at the close of a successful hunt. Others were ornate, with detailed ornamentation, and were used for formal and ceremonial occasions when the traditional regalia were worn. These edged weapons were expensive and very personal objects for their original owners.

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