My first impression is not good. The wooden grip is too long for the pommel showing a section that should be underneath the pommel. Clearly the SS rune pommel cap has been removed/installed with a pair of pliers that left markings on it. Finally, the blade etch looks very poorly done and the letters are an odd form of Fraktur that do not look period to me. Three strikes and you are out for me.
I had noticed those things.. but with a full return policy I think I'd like to get my hands on it and get a closer look and some better pictures.
I'm in agreement with George, and might even give it a 1/2 extra strike. And that's because the etching looks like it's most likely on top of a previously worn/damaged blade. FP
I'll get some better pics this week. Like I always say... Nothing risked, nothing gained. With my full return policy I'm not risking much.
I would not buy this degen.
Almost all, if not all, SS and police degens have 13 segments in the grips. On this one it looks like the upper segment has been demolished. So, the grip would have to be replaced or repaired to make it look "right." Pliers marks are often found on these degens, officer and NCO models. For some reason, someone feels compelled to remove the top fitting to see what's inside. They often damage it when they do so. This is a condition issue, rather than an authentication one. The grip was likely damages when the top fitting was replaced and overly tightened. Duh! As to the etch, I know little about them, but I agree this one looks odd. It sort of has the look of a photo etch, but I could be wrong. It appears the whole degen has been highly polished, objectionable to some collectors. The final decision, of course, is up to you. With the comments here and the price of the degen, you might or might not decide it is a good buy for your taste and purposes.
I think that all members have seen the other etched degen (police ss) on estand of waf
