Almost black grip... NSKK Dienstdolch ?

[Walkwolf]

William, the chip is actually somewhat lighter than the surface of the
grip itself. I think it is odd because I also have two early SA's where
the grips are almost blonde or natural coloured. Perhaps the guy
who originally owned it had sweaty palms.........

[BOB COLEMAN]

[QUOTE=Pitbull63;617596]I agree with Ronnie,

I also heard some members of the NSKK painted the handles black when the scabbards were painted. Here is a NSKK I just picked up with alot of the paint wore off the handle but evidence still under the crossguards.

Rich

The only individuals who would be painting their scabbards black would be men oif the Motor SA. There would be no reason for these individuals to paint the handles also. Marine SA and NSKK men would have received their standard dagger from the factory. They would have no reason to alter it. There is also nothing to indicate that these early SA Marine daggers ever had a gilt finish.