WW2 German M43 Potato Masher-Stick Grenade by cud dated 1944, with Wooden Handle and Metal Head
SKU: GERMAN M24 CUD 1944 STICK GRENADE
Original/Reproduction: Original
Availability: In-Stock
Manufacturer: "cud" Wollmershauser & Co., G.m.b.H., Reutlingen
Date Manufactured: 1944
Model: M43
Size / Dimensions: 14"
Materials / Construction: Metal, Wood
Condition: 98%/Excellent
Price: $850.00
Seller Type: WW2C
Seller ID: JMW
Seller Code: DG100
Return Policy: 3-day inspection and return policy on used guns and accessories.
Description
This is an original WWII German M43 Stick Grenade, commonly referred to as the “Potato Masher”, rendered completely inert for display purposes. This late-war example is manufacturer-marked "cud" (assigned to Wollmershauser & Co., G.m.b.H., Reutlingen) and is dated 1944, reflecting typical production characteristics seen in the final stages of the conflict.
The grenade features a steel cylindrical head with clear stampings and a factory-applied green paint finish, showing light wear consistent with age. The wooden shaft is original, with proper lathe-turned grip and threaded base cap, used to access the inner fuse assembly compartment. Though the fuse system is removed, the construction retains its original hollow cavity, and the screw cap remains intact.
History
The World War II German M43 Stielhandgranate functions as an inert "Potato Masher" stick grenade for display purposes. The M43 emerged as a simplified version of the Stielhandgranate 24 during the final years of World War II for mass production purposes. The 1944 production date of this item features the manufacturer code “cud” which indicates it was produced by Vereinigte Deutsche Metallwerke AG a recognized wartime manufacturer of ordnance components. The M43 variant features a cylindrical steel head and wood shaft design with a basic one-piece pressed steel head that lacks the removable base cap found in earlier models. Key features: The steel warhead retains its original black paint finish while showing typical signs of aging. The item is inert and safe because it contains no explosive or live components. The head shows both a 1944 date and the factory code “cud” which is clearly visible. The wooden handle shows a soft aged appearance while displaying its natural wood grain patterns and original wartime treatment. The threaded cap and fuse section remains visible but remains non-operational. The German military developed the M43 grenade as a faster and less expensive production alternative to the M24 due to material shortages and logistical challenges during 1944–1945. The Wehrmacht and Waffen-SS units received these grenades as standard equipment for operations on both Eastern and Western fronts. This German wartime ordnance piece stands as a museum-grade collectible suitable for any WWII militaria collection or historical display.
