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CASE WW2 V-42 Stiletto — SF Combat Knife — Immaculate Condition
$ 7920
- Description
- Size Guide
Description
CASE WW2 V-42 Stiletto — SF Combat Knife — Immaculate Condition.For your consideration
Arguably the rarest fighting knife ever factory produced, the Case V-42 stiletto is an icon of the 2nd world war. It’s image is now used as the crest for the modern US special forces.
These knives were produced in very limited quantities specifically for the First Special Service Force (FSSF), also known as The Devils Brigade. Each V42 features a hand ground blade with a reverse facet for maximum penetrating ability. It’s said that these knives could easily pierce a German helmet, and likely were used in great effect to do so.
Todays listing features one of the finest examples remaining in the world. This V42 is in near factory mint shape, with 100% of its bluing intact and absolutely no chips, cracks, or signs of sharpening. The handle, skull crusher pommel, and guard are as tight as they were the day the knife was issued. The tip of the knife is totally intact and the iconic leather strip below the guard is fully attached just as it should be. The “skull crusher” is pin-sharp and firmly attached to the handle.
The only defect on this piece are very slight surface abrasions from being carried in its original stapled sheath. These are not noticeable without correct lighting and almost completely disappear when the blade is carefully oiled.
The sheath itself is also in amazing condition. It is original to the piece with matching markings on the outside “OMH” to the hand stamping on the ricasso of the blade. The leather is supple, snaps are tight, and there’s no signs of rot or decay. Truly an immaculate example and worth a large sum in itself.
This knife was gifted to Major Robert Harwick of the 506th PIR (the unit featured in the HBO series Band of Brothers). Likely from one of his men who had previously served with the FSSF — many of whom were reassigned to PIR units due to their experience in airborne operations.
Harwick was a member of H company and fought through D-day, Bastogne, and into the Rhineland, finishing his tour at Hitlers mountaintop compound nicknamed The Eagles Nest. Harwick was given the moniker “Old Man Harwick” by his men as he was in his 30s during WW2. This is likely what the “OMH” stamping and penciling stand for.
This knife is truly a centerpiece to any blade or militaria collection. It’s history combined with absolute perfect shape make me feel as though it belongs in a museum, but it’s instead being offered for sale at an appropriate price. I hate to get rid of the knife, but life happens and I cannot continue to be its steward. It’s spent it’s time with me in a UV protected display case, sheath buttons unsnapped, and resting on velvet.
I’m hoping that it will go to a good home and an owner who will continue to honor Maj Harwick’s legacy and cherish this iconic blade.
Now onto the auction details —
PLEASE CONTACT ME BEFORE MAKING A PURCHASE.
The shipping listed is just a conservative estimate, this knife will need to be FULLY insured or HAND DELIVERED. I will not risk losing this piece in the post.
BE AWARE OF YOUR LOCAL LAWS.
This knife WILL NOT be shipped to a country where it’s ownership is outlawed. Again, I will not risk losing this piece to post or customs!!
If you have any questions please message me directly! It is hard to fully express the inherent value of this piece in an eBay listing so I’d be happy to talk more.
You can also find a video of this knife on my YouTube, Gentry Gallery
Thank you for your time and consideration!