This is the earliest configuration you will see on a slant Horster. The crossguard is a type-1 WKC. The scabbard is a typical early Horster really the most fantastic bands on these very similar to Eickhorn but different and more pleasing. The throat has two dome head screws and surprisingly the scabbard has quite a bit of lacquer remaining which has toned to a rich gold color perhaps a general dagger Not something you see often a slant with lacquer remaining. The dagger exhibits beautiful hand work throughout as you would expect on a dagger of this vintage and is internally numbered 36. While the dagger has a few condition issues they are certainly outweighed by the overall beauty and rarity of the piece. A good friend of mine dug this out of the woodwork and I thank him for allowing me to add this one to my collection.

Tom,
it is a fantastic dagger, congratulation!
"While the dagger has a few condition issues" - are you kidding Tom? This dagger was made in the really beginning of the army dagger production in the year of 1935 or 1936. So in my opinion your dagger is in great condition. The remaining lacquer is also a beauty.
Summa summarum: this dagger is a dream for an early army dagger collector.
Including me.

Janos

Janos Thank you – Yes you’re right these issues are insignificant it’s a wonderful thing the dagger has survived intact and un-played with you pass on a dagger like this it might be awhile before you see another.

Nice one Tom! The early examples with this WKC guard are quite rare. Finding one in any condition is a bonus.

On dealer sites I have seen just two that I can recall in 10 years. One was on Wittmann`s & I bought the other. I think production of them is late 1935.

The initial Horster guard proper is not very common either and usually encountered with the `B` grip that was also available very early in production (contrary to what many people believe).

Actually your Horster 1st with slant is the only one I have seen. There may be others out there but there were not many to begin with.

VB-Thanks your right these seem to be quite hard to find. Here is #45 with the Horster type-1 crossguard you mentioned. All parts numbered so a nice way to confirm this dagger came from the factory in this configuration must have been right on the transition from the slant to the type B and the new crossguard - only one I have seen as well. I know this guard is a favorite of yours. Note the dagger mirrors the other beautiful scabbard bands-pommel etc except the Horster type-1 instead of the WKC type-1

... I like them both, but the 2nd one is my favourite, especially when numbered together.
Thanks for showing.
Best;
Hermann

Hermann Thank You #45 is certainly in better condition and also my favorite due to the fact it’s the initial in house Horster crossguard. Both daggers have all matching numbers!

... we Germans do love matching numbers, maybe coming from Lugers. You can find them also on early Porsche. If correctly done, and I'm sure you know how it should look like, it's always a Plus.
Best;
H.

Rare and very desirable Slant Horsters Tom! I love them both but do like to have guards that are made by the maker of the blade and it's a plus that they did not share their guard with other makers! Beautiful pieces that demand respect in any collection, want them both!! Kevin.

Tom,
Both are terrific looking daggers. You have a great collection of slants. I consider myself lucky to have just a few early slants. Thanks