Hello...experts >>as i read comments, i can see that collectors use different reference books....i would like to know what books to get as i am a very new collector ...and would like to have separate books about Army,Navy, Lufts..,HJ, and other German daggers...regards >>>>

Aleksandr:

Tom Wittman has excellent books with many reference pictures and comparisons on SS, Navy, Luftwaffe and Army daggers. He is also preparing a book on SA daggers to be published real soon.

Tom Johnson has a series of books covering all aspects of daggers and collecting spread over 8 volumes.

These book, in my opinion, are the first ones to get if you collect daggers.

There are other books specializing on reproductions and fakes (by Bowman) or NPEA daggers (by Weinand) or etched bayonets (by Techet) that are must haves if you are collecting or researching these types of weapons.

Similar books are available for helmets, insignia, medals, and so on.

John

If you choose to delve into the realm of sabers, John Angolia's Swords Of Germany is a required conrnerstone book. Although out of print, copies can be picked up on the auction sites or collector boards.

Johnson, who was referenced above, also wrote a 3 volume series for sword collectors.

Volume 1- Army/Officer/NCO, etched, engraved,etc
Volume 2- Luft flyers sword, KM, SS, and Police
Volume 3- Various Political swords, etc

I've got V1 and V2. Probably the best photographic reference out there for swords in wear. For simple identfication, go with Angolia. It will provide the fundamental buildinig blocks to identify the 200+ model Army sabers out there.

Thank you very much JohnZ and Sword -Fish for the info....regards>>>>i will also be posting some pictures of the daggers and swords that have gotten so far..