A composite image showing the detailed etching on a WWII German Rifle Association cutlass blade, featuring floral patterns, hunting scenes, and a target motif. Additional close-ups display the ribbed ivory-colored grip with a crossed rifles emblem, the fluted pommel with a slotted screw, and age-related cracks in the grip material

A WWII-era German hunting cutlass featuring an intricately etched blade with floral and hunting motifs, an ivory-colored grip with a crossed rifles emblem, and a black leather scabbard with metal fittings

A close-up of the clamshell guard on a WWII-era German hunting cutlass, featuring an engraved “Deutscher Schützenverband” (German Shooting Association) insignia with oak leaf detailing and a target emblem. The metal crossguard has acorn-decorated quillons.

A close-up view of the pommel and grip of a WWII-era German Rifle Association cutlass, featuring a ribbed ivory-colored handle with a crossed rifles emblem, a fluted metal pommel with a slotted screw, and an engraved clamshell guard with German Shooting Association insignia

A detailed close-up of a WWII-era German hunting cutlass handle, featuring a ribbed ivory-colored grip, acorn-decorated crossguard, and a visible maker’s mark on the blade near the hilt. The grip shows signs of age with visible cracks

Close-up of a WWII-era German hunting cutlass handle featuring a ribbed ivory-colored grip with a crossed rifles emblem, an acorn-decorated crossguard, and an engraved clamshell guard with German text. The grip exhibits visible aging cracks

WWII German Rifle Association Cutlass by Alcoso, Solingen, C. 1937-1940

An Ornate Ceremonial Hunting & Marksmanship Blade

Produced in pre-war Germany, this cutlass exemplifies the prestige and tradition of German shooting guilds and hunting associations. With its detailed etching, official Schützenverband insignia, and craftsmanship by Alcoso, Solingen, this piece is a scarce and historically important artifact from the Third Reich era.

German Rifle Association cutlass, manufactured by Alcoso (Alexander Coppel, Solingen) between 1937 and 1940. This cutlass was designed for ceremonial and presentation use, likely awarded to a distinguished member of a German shooting guild or forestry association.

Good overall condition, with signs of age-related wear consistent with its historical period. The blade etching is well-preserved and clearly visible, though there is some surface rust present, particularly along the edges and near the tip. The ribbed ivory-colored celluloid grip exhibits visible cracking, particularly near the pommel, a common occurrence in period celluloid materials due to age and environmental exposure. The metal fittings, including the crossguard and pommel, retain their original detailing with a natural patina. The original black leather scabbard with metal fittings is intact, showing some wear but structurally sound.

An Ornate Ceremonial Hunting & Marksmanship Blade

The straight, single-edged steel blade features intricate deep-etched hunting scenes, including floral scrollwork, oak leaves, a stag motif, and a central target emblem, symbolizing its connection to German marksmanship traditions. The etched borders and stylized geometric accents further exemplify the refined craftsmanship of pre-war ceremonial weapons.

The hilt comprises a ribbed, ivory-colored celluloid grip, inlaid with a metal crossed rifles emblem, denoting its affiliation with the Deutscher Schützenverband (German Shooting Association). The acorn-decorated nickel-plated crossguard and large clamshell guard bear an engraved German Shooting Association insignia, surrounded by an oak leaf wreath, reinforcing its forestry and hunting significance.

The cutlass terminates in a fluted sunburst-style pommel, secured with a slotted tang screw, a design hallmark of early Alcoso hunting swords. It retains its original black leather scabbard with metal fittings, a rare feature that enhances its historical authenticity.

•Maker: Alcoso (Alexander Coppel), Solingen, Germany

•Period: Circa 1937–1940

•Materials: Steel, nickel-plated fittings, celluloid grip, leather scabbard

in good overall condition, with signs of age-related wear consistent with its historical period. The blade etching is well-preserved and clearly visible, though there is some surface rust present, particularly along the edges and near the tip. The ribbed ivory-colored celluloid grip exhibits visible cracking, particularly near the pommel, a common occurrence in period celluloid materials due to age and environmental exposure. The metal fittings, including the crossguard and pommel, retain their original detailing with a natural patina. The original black leather scabbard with metal fittings is intact, showing some wear but structurally sound.

Produced in pre-war Germany, this cutlass exemplifies the prestige and tradition of German shooting guilds and hunting associations. With its highly detailed etching, official Schützenverband insignia, and craftsmanship by Alcoso, Solingen, this piece is a scarce and historically important artifact from the Third Reich era.

SKU: 12-0284

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