{"product_id":"original-german-wwii-square-head-entrenching-tool-with-carrier","title":"Original German WWII Square Head Entrenching Tool With Carrier","description":"\u003cp\u003eOriginal Item: Only One Available. The entrenching tool was a basic item issued to all EM\/NCO’s and was issued with a specific carrying case that was to be worn on the load carrying waist belt. Originally the non-folding entrenching tool utilized by the Germany army in WWII was a carryover of the WWI and Reichswehr era M1887 entrenching tool until November 12, 1938 when a new improved folding shovel was introduced to replace the earlier non-folding pattern. Although the new folding shovel proved more practical and popular with the troops, the earlier entrenching tool was utilized right up until the end of the war. The entrenching tool was a very valuable piece of kit enabling the individual soldier to dig in for protection as required and was also utilized as a close combat weapon.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis example is a stamped steel spade or shovel blade, welded at the support and riveted to a wooden handle. This model did not undergo any noticeable design changes for nearly 50 years. The spade on this example does bear markings but since it has been repainted, the markings are barely visible. The repainting was done poorly and paint can be seen on the wood in-between the two ends of the spade. On top of the repainting on the back of the spade, \u003cstrong\u003e5051 \u003c\/strong\u003eis painted in white. This example also comes with its original WWII carrier, which is unmarked. The securing strap is missing some leather so it should not be buckled. There is some wear across the leather which could be cleaned.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe entrenching tool is roughly \u003cstrong\u003e22\u003c\/strong\u003e” in length.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe overall condition of both items is quite nice and does show honest wear and use. A beautiful addition to any collection. Comes more than ready for further research and display.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c!----\u003e","brand":"Original Items","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41803888492613,"sku":"ONJR24READ073","price":225.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1524\/1342\/files\/ONJR24READ073__01.jpg?v=1719857392","url":"https:\/\/www.ima-usa.com\/products\/original-german-wwii-square-head-entrenching-tool-with-carrier","provider":"International Military Antiques","version":"1.0","type":"link"}