TENO Leader Dagger for Review

[busterz111]

Nice dagger but Over rated.A friend sold a smoking one at the SOS last year for $4500....Honestly if this is in the $1800-2000 range it would be OK.BUT Keep in mind its not just the finish flaking the Fittings themselves are self destructing,A zinc rot type of situation and it WILL get worse

[RobertE]

BUT Keep in mind its not just the finish flaking the Fittings themselves are self destructing,A zinc rot type of situation and it WILL get worse...

Perhaps, but the metal is not deteroriating on this example. This doesn't appear to be made from the same material as an assault badge; while the finish is lifting, the metal looks great.

[Ron Weinand]

These fittings are not Zn as in the badges and no Zn pest here. The problem with this alloy is that it does not hold the finish plating very well and it flakes, not fades.

[Wim Vangossum]

I agree they look awesome when they are in mint condition. The burnished contrast to the plating makes this Paul Casberg design such appealing to the eye. Owners of such daggers are most of the time fuzzy and dedicated experts, only wanted the best of the best. So I suppose as well that it is not easy to resell a much more worn dagger. It is one of those collectibles were the 'it-has- been- there look" not really counts.

Regards, Wim

[rajko84]

Robert did you check is it matching numbers? Number should be on other side of the blade from makers mark.

[RobertE]

Yes, it has a number on the front of the blade that matches the one on the scabbard throat. I already own this dagger, but was considering selling it.

These daggers have a great look to them IMO - they are meatier than an Army, broad like a LW 1st model.

While the condition isn't perfect on this one due to the lifting, I think it's great for someone that doesn't want to pay the price of a car for a mint one.

I do like that it has no collector or post-war damage - no one tried to turn a screw with the blade, no dents or sharpening, cracks or fractures in the handle, or other damage due to mis-use. Father time took care of some of the finish, but I can sure live with lifting!

I appreciate everyone looking it over for originalility - plating lifting is one thing, but having a replica is a completely different matter! Thanks for the help.

regards, Robert

[busterz111]

Ron

I know its not a Ninc based material But it will have the same effect over time.I have seen a few Wingen pieces over the years and Their armys are so brittle at this point its not even funny,even knocked off a Swaztica myself a few years back.