Original Item. Only One Available. This is an original Imperial German WWI DEMAG combination trench knife and bayonet, commonly known as the "Crank Handle" or Demag-Dolch, manufactured by Deutsche Maschinenfabrik AG of Duisburg, Germany, circa 1915–1918. Designed to function as both a close-combat dagger and a rifle-mounted bayonet, it has a distinctive curved steel grip and short, double-edged blade. The bayonet is accompanied by its black-finished steel scabbard with leather suspension fittings.

The spear-point blade has a pronounced central ridge and retains the curved DEMAG manufacturer's trademark and D.R.G.M. marking near the ricasso. The latter stands for Deutsches Reichsgebrauchsmuster, indicating a design registered under the German Imperial utility-model system. The distinctive crank-shaped grip is constructed from two pressed-steel halves secured by four rivets, retaining portions of its original olive-green painted finish. It incorporates a bayonet mounting slot, locking button, and clearance opening for the rifle's cleaning rod. The steel crossguard has slightly curved ends and an opening associated with the mounting arrangement.

The accompanying scabbard is constructed from black-finished steel and retains its riveted leather belt hanger and securing straps with metal snap hardware.

Condition is fair to good overall, with considerable age and handling wear. The blade retains its full profile and identifiable markings, although widespread oxidation, spotting, and surface pitting are present, particularly toward the point. The crossguard has developed a dark patina with surface rust, while the grip shows scratches, discoloration, and areas of paint loss. The scabbard exhibits extensive surface wear, oxidation, and losses to its black finish. Its leather fittings are heavily aged, with drying, cracking, fraying, and surface deterioration. Careful handling of the leather is recommended.

Blade Length: 5 1/2" [14.0 cm]
Overall Bayonet Length: 10" [25.4 cm]
Overall Length in Scabbard: 11" [27.9 cm]

Historical Context

The DEMAG combination trench knife and bayonet emerged during the First World War, when the German Army was adapting its infantry equipment to the conditions of trench warfare. By 1915, the extensive defensive systems established along the Western Front had made close-quarters fighting an increasingly important part of military operations. Soldiers engaged in trench raids, reconnaissance patrols, and assaults on fortified positions frequently encountered confined spaces where traditional long rifle bayonets could prove difficult to maneuver.

The need for compact fighting weapons led to the introduction of purpose-made trench knives, known in German as Grabendolche or Nahkampfmesser. These were intended for close-range fighting, particularly during raids and sudden engagements inside enemy defensive positions. Their relatively short blades made them practical for soldiers who needed an easily accessible sidearm while carrying their regular infantry equipment.

On May 8, 1915, the Prussian War Ministry authorized the introduction of dagger-type fighting knives for infantry companies serving on the Western Front, initially allocating six per company for reconnaissance and assault operations. This allowance increased to twelve knives per company on February 29, 1916, and twenty-four on June 26 of the same year. Further regulations issued in March 1917 expanded the allocation and extended their distribution to additional formations, including pioneer, mining, and trench-mortar companies, as well as units serving on the Eastern Front.

These knives were generally held as unit equipment and distributed according to operational requirements. Privately purchased fighting knives were also popular among German soldiers, who could obtain their own weapons from commercial manufacturers.

The DEMAG was among the distinctive weapons developed during this period. Its combination of dagger and bayonet functions allowed the soldier to use it independently for close combat or attach it to a rifle equipped with the German Model 98 bayonet mounting system. This arrangement offered a practical solution for troops requiring a compact sidearm while retaining the ability to employ a fixed bayonet.

The pattern entered service during the war and became particularly associated with German assault troops, including the Stoßtruppen and Sturmtruppen, whose increasingly specialized tactics emphasized mobility, surprise, and close-range engagements. These formations developed considerably during the middle and later years of WWI, often carrying equipment selected for rapid movement through enemy trenches and defensive positions.

Machine-gun personnel were also known to carry DEMAG combination knives, sometimes acquired through private purchase. Their compact form made them useful sidearms for soldiers whose primary duties involved operating and transporting heavier weapons. The pattern was subsequently distributed more widely among German infantry through wartime procurement.

The growing importance of specialized assault tactics influenced the development and distribution of German infantry equipment throughout the war. Trench raids were frequently conducted to gather intelligence, capture prisoners, disrupt enemy positions, and maintain pressure on opposing forces. Soldiers involved in these operations commonly relied on grenades, pistols, and short fighting knives during the final stages of an attack. The DEMAG combination knife belonged to this period of experimentation with equipment intended for the particular demands of trench combat.