UBB.threads Forums Edged Weapons German Sword & Miniatures Forum Robert Klaas Lionhead Sword Legitimacy

Hello, I have recently acquired a sword that I am curious about whether or not it is legitimate. It appears to be a Robert Klaas lionhead, but I am not sure about it, at least for the scabbard. It appears to be very tight on the blade and has a more matte finish compared to other examples I have seen.

Thank you for your time.

Whunter, welcome to the forum.
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It resembles a Robert Klass pattern 237.

As to the scabbard - more images might help. Can you get some of the scabbard throat? Is it damaged making it tight? Measurements of the blade and scabbard lengths may also help.

It appears the leather buffer pad is missing. It is a plus to have the Initials and date on the reverse langet.

--dj--Joe U.S.M.C.

Yes the throat of the scabbard is damaged. I will post some pictures of it. The blade length is 32in and overall length of 37-1/4in.

The scabbard appears to be 33 13/16 inches in length.

Am I correct in seeing no corresponding hole in the scabbard throat where the scabbard screw is missing? Or is that a false visual perception?

I must go look at my scabbard throats. Something I have not previously paid attention to.

--dj--Joe U.S.M.C.

The scabbard throat has a hole where the screw is missing. Sorry, I did not take the picture, so I was not able to get one completely clear.

That negates my thought that the scabbard throat might have been turned in the wrong position.

The surface and the opening of the scabbard throat appears rough - or is it the image?

Does the paint on the throat and the scabbard match?

--dj--Joe U.S.M.C.

They match. I believe that the surface is rough.

Hmmm - you state about the scabbard, "It appears to be very tight on the blade".
This is all conjecture - It could be a mismatched set. - It could be a slightly bent blade or scabbard - It could be not the original scabbard throat?
I'm sure you thought of all these possibilities already.

Hopefully someone will have other ideas and insights.

--dj--Joe U.S.M.C.

That was one of my original thoughts about it. It is around one inch in width at the throat itself as well. Here's some more throat pictures. Besides the scabbard, does the blade and hilt of it appear to be original and legitimate?

From the images at hand - comparing to examples shown in the resource book - SWORDS OF GERMANY 1900/1945 By: John R. Angolia. Imperial Supplement By: Gregory Douglas.

IMO (from the images at hand) it appears like the Robert Klass pattern #237.

It shows - IMO period wear. The engraved initials are nice. The date could well be period engraved since there was space alllotted under the initials for it.

Other opinions would be good.

--dj--Joe U.S.M.C.

Thank you for the information.

Ok. The blade appears to be slightly bent, so that may be the reason.

That could make it tight. I would imagine there are a few out there with slightly curved blades. Plus other damage from being used as props for doors etc. or just stood in a corner out of the scabbard. Still IMO a nice sword.

If you are looking for a replacement blade buffer pad - Johnson Reference Books & Militaria - carries them.
https://johnsonreferencebooks.com/product/army-sword-buffer-pad-black-brown-leather-08852/

--dj--Joe U.S.M.C.

Ok, thank you for the information. I may pick one up.