Model 1898 trench shovel, undated

[Fiore]

Gentlemen,

I would appreciate some help in possibly identifying this trench shovel as a WWI period German model. Unfortunately it is undated but bears the maker stamp of 'LS'. The construction, riveting etc. seem to match others of the period, and the age patina is good. Is there any way to determine, by construction or other identifiers, the period in which this might have been issued/used?

Also, if anyone has a source for an appropriate cover/carrier for this model shovel I would be grateful if you could let me know.

Thanks for looking!

[Austrian]

Nice M1898 from manufacturer Ludwig Schröder, Schalksmühle.
The exact time period of manufacturing is hard to say.
As per my watchings it was most likely built in the early 30s for paramilitary market, but an earlier production is not completely ruled out.
The differences often can only be recognised by the surface finish, which is no longer visible here.