The police trailing saber (Schleppsäbel) represents a significant aspect of German police history from the late 19th century through the 1930s. This characteristic edged weapon was an integral component of German constables' uniforms and symbolized state authority during a period of profound social transformation.
The arming of German police with sabers developed parallel to the professionalization of police forces in the 19th century. Following the founding of the German Empire in 1871, German federal states began modernizing and standardizing their police organizations. The trailing saber, whose name derives from “Schleppen” - carrying at one's side - was introduced in various designs for constables.
Unlike military sabers, the police saber served primarily as a symbol of authority rather than a practical combat weapon. Nevertheless, the slightly curved blade with bilateral fullers followed military models, particularly Prussian infantry sabers. The fullers served to reduce weight while stabilizing the blade.
The firm Carl Eickhorn in Solingen ranked among the most important German manufacturers of edged weapons. Founded in 1865, the company supplied both military and civilian customers, including police authorities throughout Germany. Eickhorn was known for high-quality workmanship and continued to supply various organizations during the Weimar Republic and later in the Third Reich. The manufacturer's signature on the blade served as a quality mark and enables dating of such pieces today.
The typical police trailing saber is characterized by several distinctive features: The nickel-plated hilt with simple crossguard provided practical hand protection. Unlike officers' sabers, the fittings were deliberately kept simple, befitting their service character. The black plastic grip - in later versions often made of Bakelite or similar early plastics - was robust and weather-resistant. The finger loop prevented loss of the weapon during deployments.
The black leather scabbard with nickel-plated fittings followed uniform regulations. The throat piece with side carrying ring enabled attachment to the belt. The black leather trailing strap was essential for properly wearing the saber on the uniform and prevented the disturbing swinging of the saber while walking.
Prussian and later Reich-wide police regulations precisely governed when and how the trailing saber was to be worn. Typically, it belonged to the parade uniform and was worn at ceremonial occasions, guard duties, and certain deployments. In the daily routine of the Weimar Republic, the saber increasingly lost practical significance as modern truncheons and increasingly firearms determined the armament of constables.
Nevertheless, the saber remained part of many police units' equipment into the 1930s. Only with the reorganization of the police after 1933 and increasing militarization was the traditional trailing saber gradually replaced by other equipment.
The police saber embodied state authority during a time of great political tensions. During the Imperial period, it represented monarchical order; in the Weimar Republic, it symbolized republican state power. The visible armament was intended both to deter and to command respect for state authority.
Today, such police sabers are significant military-historical collectibles documenting an important aspect of German police history. Examples from renowned manufacturers like Carl Eickhorn are particularly sought after. The condition varies greatly, as these sabers were actually worn in service. Typical signs of use such as staining, minor rust pitting, and shrinkage of the leather scabbard are evidence of authentic usage.
Research on these objects contributes to understanding the development of German police organizations and their role in different political systems.
