A German machine gunner's shovel from JR173 at Saint Avold - Metz. Narrow shovel with short handle, specific to German machine gunners. Oxidised iron, back marked 173R MG. Wear from use, patina. Shovel of a German machine gunner from JR173 of Saint-Avold - Metz. Narrow shovel with short handle, specific to German machine gunners. Oxidized steel head, reverse marked 173R MG. Field wear and patina.