Code: 56342
A very good WW1 German Entrenching Tool in its Carrier dated 1916. The Entrenching Tool is the classic M1898/09 type with the very discernible riveted "turn-backs" to the top blade rim. Whilst the German Army used several subtly different versions of the Entrenching Tool in WW1 this identifiably German-made standard issue pattern is easily the most sought after.
This example is painted field grey as prescribed for German Entrenching Tools from 1915 onwards and it is in very good condition throughout with no damage to the blade or handle which is free from woodworm.
The Carrier itself is the M1909 type prescribed in brown leather and remains in its original colour and not “blackened” as per later orders.
True German WW1 Entrenching Tool Carriers in brown leather as we have here are actually difficult to find, most of those on the market today being in reality similar looking versions from other nations such as Bulgaria etc.
There are German maker’s mark to a manufacturer in the town of Bad Sachsa in Lower Saxony, as well as a 1916 issue date from appropriately the 10th Armee Korps Equipment Depot based in the nearby town of Hanover, this the “ TD X 16 “ marking below the maker’s mark.
As with the Tool, the Carrier is in very good condition throughout with no damage. The leather and stitching to the whole Carrier is very strong with the hanging straps particularly solid. The securing strap for the Tool to the Bayonet also retains its full length. This is important as these straps are now often found reduced in length making it impossible for the collector today to attach the Bayonet to the Tool as was prescribed at the time.
A very nice example of a seldom seen item.
