Bayermesser

PUMA Bayermesser, the model number is 11 3573. The knife with Stag handles. This model also is called a Boot knife.  This PUMA knife model was famous with paratroopers as it had a flat design and could be tucked into their boot. The guarantee date stamp is 34873. This knife was made in the 3rd quarter of 1978. 

The blade is German polished stainless steel and the handles are stag with four brass rivets. The fittings are made from German nickel silver.

This knife measures 8 1/4" overall with a 4 3/8" blade. The front of this knife blade is etched: 11 3573  HANDARBEIT - PUMA BAYERMESSER - GERMANY INOX.

The knife includes the "Puma Proof Mark" on the blade: a small dot or ping on each blade was made with a diamond pointed needle, part of the Rockwell blade quality testing. It has a 4 3/8" German stainless steel blade and is 8 1/4" overall length. 

The model number 3573 was the Bavaria knife. A special style sheath was made for the American market with a silver clip that could clip onto a boot. In the mid 1980’s the Bavarian knife was given a new model number, 3586.