1 vintage U.S. World War 2 Richtig fighting knife.  This fine 7" Richtig knife would make an important addition to any collection.

This knife was made by a legend in knife-making.  Frank Richtig had a secret steel tempering process that allowed him to slice through railroad spikes and automobile leaf springs.  Frank would demonstrate this at county fairs--after slicing a railroad spike or leaf spring, he would slice through a piece of paper with the same knife.  Frank earned himself a spot in a 'Ripley's Believe It or Not' magazine in the 1930's.  These knives can be used for decades, because of Frank's superior craftsmanship.

This knife measures 11 7/8" overall.  The blade itself measures 6 15/16".  The Richtig fighting knives with this handle configuration, a handle that includes aluminum, were never marked.  Knifemakers were told by the War Department not to use these materials.  He did it anyway--for the War effort, and avoided marking his knives to avoid any kickback from the War Dept.  The pommel has an extended lanyard ring.  The WW2 scabbard is stamped on its front 'CUSTOM MADE   J BRAND'. 

This knife is ID'd to the soldier that carried it.  The back of the scabbard is marked 'G.A. LUTZ'. 

This vintage U.S. World War II Richtig fighter is in excellent condition.  The blade has been sharpened, and has finish scratches.  The spine of the blade has hammer marks--one would like to hope that Frank Richtig hammered this blade through a railroad spike or leafspring.  The handle is excellent.  The scabbard has a 7/8" slice at the right throat rivet.  The keeper strap and snap are in perfect condition.