The company Paul Kohl (Fischerwerk), Stahlwarenfabrik was established in 1908 in Solingen-Foche, although some historical sources suggest workshop origins dating back as early as 1816. The firm was officially registered with the Solingen Chamber of Commerce on December 3, 1920, and initially built its reputation by specializing in the manufacture and commercial distribution of razors, razor blades, and premium scissors. During the Third Reich era, Paul Kohl expanded its industrial operations into the political sector, establishing itself as a dedicated manufacturer of early SA service daggers (Sturmabteilung). By 1939, the factory was located at Schlagbaumer Straße 172-4 in Solingen-Foche, further expanding by 1942 into forgings and surgical instruments.
The factory never received an official RZM code, which limits its entire political dagger manufacturing strictly to the highly sought-after, early phase of NSDAP equipment. Paul Kohl manufactured an estimated total of only 1,000 SA service daggers. This extremely limited production run grants these historical pieces an exceptional rarity rating of 4.5/5 (highly rare) among advanced military antiques collectors. These early-production pieces feature classic fittings and bear the iconic etched blade motto "Alles für Deutschland". Beyond political contracts, the factory's portfolio included standard domestic cutlery, barbers' tools, and specialized medical apparatus.
The highly distinctive trademark or logo of Paul Kohl (Fischerwerk) is a creative visual play on the factory name "Fischerwerk" (Fisherman Works). Officially registered in 1922, the logo consists of a stylized stick figure holding a large fish in its right hand. This unique maker mark, beautifully embodying the manufacturer's deep-rooted artisanal traditions and commitment to precision, was typically etched onto the lower part of the blade near the crossguard. Today, surviving products from this maker represent a rare, highly significant chapter of Solingen history, making them excellent reference examples for a comprehensive blank weapons encyclopedia.
