Was going through some of my Rg34 spares when I decided to look at three unattributed RGKs. I then recalled the one pictured below, so decided to post it up for input. It has a dull grayish colored swivel link with the first bead attached to it being zinc. The remainder are thin steel (I think). Am unsure if they are either slightly magnetic or non-magnetic, since using a magnet it is more attracted to the steel "S" hooks inside the beads. In addition, the crimp on the beads is often only on one end and open on the other. Bead count is 65 (excluding the one zinc mated to the end of the swivel link). Thoughts welcome... particularly if anyone has or seen such a RGK associated with a attributed behalter...
Rg34 Unattributed RGK... Thoughts?
- Thread starter pwcosol
- Start date
Thank you, Antoni... haven't heard from you in awhile, too! Got a couple more which are still on the desk, so will add them to this post. UA RGK AB 1-4 exhibits no markings. Good quality. UA RGK ZB 5AB 1-3 has all zinc beads except five interspersed alloy ones. Thoughts?
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The first one is a Type 3a. The beads are thin steel (magnetic). Signs of crimping differ from bead to bead. In my experience most often found in later Mundlos and Hawig cans. Occasionally in Braunschweiger pieces. Also note the bevel on the back of the toggle. Angled instead of rounded. This is a trait often observed on later Mundlos, Appel and also kcy chain toggles.
The second one is a Type 1b. Mid-War period could be from almost any maker. I lean toward G. Appel as they seemed to have used Aluminum beads longer than most makers.
The last example is a Type 2a. A variation produced by multiple firms and probably the most common chain after the 1b. Mundlos made an enormous quantity of this style chain but almost all of them are marked. In my opinion this chain could have been made by almost any of the firms involved in rg34 production.
As far as the composition/construction of beads immediately behind the toggle (aluminum, zinc, steel, alloy or none). I have been unable to establish any patterns to suggest a certain configuration for any particular maker. Same with interspersed chain beads of odd or different composition. My thoughts only ....
The second one is a Type 1b. Mid-War period could be from almost any maker. I lean toward G. Appel as they seemed to have used Aluminum beads longer than most makers.
The last example is a Type 2a. A variation produced by multiple firms and probably the most common chain after the 1b. Mundlos made an enormous quantity of this style chain but almost all of them are marked. In my opinion this chain could have been made by almost any of the firms involved in rg34 production.
As far as the composition/construction of beads immediately behind the toggle (aluminum, zinc, steel, alloy or none). I have been unable to establish any patterns to suggest a certain configuration for any particular maker. Same with interspersed chain beads of odd or different composition. My thoughts only ....
