History

The SA (Sturmabteilung, storm detachment) was established in 1921 as a paramilitary protection squad of the NSDAP. The members of the SA were tasked with protecting party leaders at political rallies and meetings from the paramilitary forces of the opposing political factions. The SA was first utilised on November 4, 1921 at a meeting held in Munich’s "Hofbräuhaus" beer hall. The organisation was banned after the failed putsch in 1923 and was reactivated in February 1925.

The Double Open-Claw Buckle was introduced on April 29, 1934, as a replacement for the standard rectangular belt buckle. As of November 1934, the double claw buckle was to be worn, but manufacturers were allowed to sell their remaining stocks of the rectangular belt buckles. As of 1936, members of the SA were no longer permitted to wear the rectangular buckle, although many flouted regulations and continued to do so.

The double open-claw buckle was produced in two colours, gold and silver, and SA personnel were instructed to wear the belt buckle that matched their tunic buttons.

The SA pattern of this belt buckle has rounded edges, while the NSDAP version has angular edges. However, the two designs were worn interchangeably by members of both organisations.