West German M3 trench knife in scabbard, manufactured by Eickhorn of Solingen and marked “Solingen, W. Germany” beneath the crossguard. This post-war German military-style fighting and utility knife follows the American M3 trench knife pattern and includes several features associated with West German production. The knife comes with an M8A1-style scabbard marked “Made in W-Germany” on the locket.
The knife features a substantial double-edged-style pointed blade with a spear point and a robust crossguard, with the Solingen marking providing clear identification of its German manufacture. The grip is styled after the US M7 bayonet, with a chequered plastic grip with a matte finish, providing a secure grip and giving the knife a distinctive appearance compared with original American M3 examples. The combination of the M3-pattern blade, M7-style grip and German manufacture makes this an interesting example of post-war European military edged-weapon design influenced by American equipment.
The accompanying M8A1-style scabbard has a metal throat or locket and is marked “Made in W-Germany”, further confirming its West German manufacture. This combination is particularly suitable for collectors of West German militaria, Eickhorn knives, Solingen military knives, M3 trench knives, German fighting knives, US M3 pattern knives, M7 bayonet-style grips, Cold War military equipment and NATO edged weapons.
Eickhorn of Solingen was one of Germany’s major manufacturers of military edged weapons, and marked examples are of particular interest to collectors researching post-war German production. The knife represents the continuation of established American military knife designs within the West German arms and equipment industry during the Cold War.
Dimensions
Approx. 300mm overall; blade approx. 170mm
Condition
Good overall condition, with expected service wear and evidence of mild sharpening. Rubberised grip remains intact, with very minor wear. Manufacturer and “Solingen, W. Germany” markings remain identifiable. Complete with M8A1-style scabbard marked “Made in W-Germany”.
