DLV/NSFK Glider Pilot Dagger — Helbig “Crackle Finish”
We have here a nice, desirable “Crackle Finish” DLV/NSFK Glider Pilot Dagger (also referred to in the collecting world as a “DLV Flyer’s Knife”) by maker F. & A. Helbig. What makes this version of the DLV Dagger unique when compared with other examples, is the so called, “Crackle Finish”. This was a process applied to the scabbard body and the grip to simulate the look and feel of leather, instead of using actual leather due to wartime supply shortages…
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We have here a nice, desirable “Crackle Finish” DLV/NSFK Glider Pilot Dagger (also referred to in the collecting world as a “DLV Flyer’s Knife”) by maker F. & A. Helbig.
What makes this version of the DLV Dagger unique when compared with other examples, is the so called, “Crackle Finish”. This was a process applied to the scabbard body and the grip to simulate the look and feel of leather, instead of using actual leather due to wartime supply shortages.
Starting at the grip we see well preserved fittings all around, including 100% of the blackening remaining to both Swastikas, which did not photograph well. The pommel shows normal use dings and scratches, but nothing out of the ordinary or unexpected. The blue paint of the grip is a solid 100%!
Moving down to the blade we see some light toned clouding on both sides, covering approximately 40% of the blade’s surface. The cross grain is very prominent throughout. We can also see some scabbard rash and light scratches along the length of about 50% of the blade (from the tip). The “F. & A. Helbig Steinbach KR. M” makers mark is correctly shallow etched approximately 7/8 inches from the base of the cross guard. On the underside of the crossguard we see the original matching blue leather scabbard buffer pad.
The scabbard is every bit as well preserved as the dagger itself. The aluminum fittings show only minor use scratches, with the largest being to the tip fitting (see photos). The blue paint of the scabbard body, like the grip, is 100%. All fittings contain the original, unmolested fitting screws securely in place. The scabbard hanger consists of a solid metal stiffening piece surrounded by leather, which (as most leather parts do) has suffered from time. The leather shows a decent amount of wear all around, but has also lost a small section on one of the sides. This does not compromise the integrity of the hanger since the metal piece is what bears the weight of the dagger, not the leather. The leather is purely cosmetic and serves no practical function.
These Helbig “Crackle” finish DLV Daggers are becoming very difficult to come by so if you’ve been looking for one, or are simply looking to begin collecting DLV/NSFK Flyer’s Knives, this is the perfect one for you!
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