Original Item: Only One Available. This is a very nice example of an Imperial German WWI Model 1913 Kugelhandgranate, or “ball hand grenade,” one of the distinctive fragmentation grenades in German service at the outbreak of the First World War. The Model 1913 is readily recognized by its heavy spherical cast-iron body and elaborate pattern of deeply cut fragmentation grooves, a considerably more complex exterior than that of the simplified Model 1915 n/A that eventually replaced it.

This example consists of the original cast-iron grenade body, with the friction igniter/fuze assembly now absent. The open fuze socket can be seen at the top. The body remains quite attractive, retaining a dark, naturally aged surface with scattered oxidation, deposits, and wear from age and handling. Most importantly, the elaborate fragmentation pattern remains strongly defined throughout, including the characteristic radiating grooves extending over the upper portion of the body. These numerous deeply divided sections are an identifying feature of the Model 1913 and distinguish it from the less complicated Model 1915 pattern.

The Kugelhandgranate Model 1913 was introduced shortly before WWI and was initially associated particularly with German pioneer troops for attacks against fortifications. Its thick cast-iron body was divided externally into numerous raised sections intended to enhance fragmentation. The grenade was relatively heavy and could consequently only be thrown a modest distance, but its substantial construction made it well suited to the defensive fragmentation role for which it was designed.

As the war expanded and Germany's requirement for grenades increased dramatically, the elaborate cast body of the Model 1913 proved comparatively difficult to manufacture on the necessary scale. In 1915, it was succeeded by the Model 1915 n/A (neuer Art, or “newer pattern”) Kugelhandgranate, which retained the basic spherical concept but greatly simplified the external fragmentation pattern in order to reduce production time.

A very appealing original WWI grenade body displaying the unmistakable complex fragmentation pattern of the early Kugelhandgranate.

This inert ordnance item has been fully deactivated in accordance with ATF guidelines. It cannot be converted into a functional explosive device and is strictly restricted from international export.

Totally inert, cannot be converted to an explosive device, not available for export. This item is completely legal within the USA. International Military Antiques, Inc observes all Federal, State and Local laws. Everything for sale on ima-usa.com is completely legal to own, trade, transport and sell within the United States of America.

All deactivated ordnance sold by IMA, Inc is engineered to be inoperable according to guidelines provided by the US Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (BATF).