Germany. An HJ Knife by Robert Herder & Co. GmbH of Solingen

An example of a third reich period HJ “Fahrtenmesser”, measuring 253 mm with the scabbard on, featuring a 135 mm long brushed (magnetic) steel blade, with a sharpened edge and a slightly dinged tip. The blade is etched “Blut und Ehre” (Blood and Honour) on the obverse, and features the stylized maker mark of “Robert Herder & Co. GmbH of Solingen” on the reverse ricasso. It is ordained with scratches and light dings from use, as well as light to moderate marks common to extraction and return to the scabbard. The thick blackanded leather washer at the crossguard is intact and sits tightly in its place. The crossguard consists of a rounded finger guard, with signature black bakelite grip plates on either side of the grip. The grips are held in place via two rivets with a HJ diamond embedded into the obverse of the grip. Light to moderate surface marks ordain the hilt from period wear, along with light bruising and loss of finish. The scabbard is constructed of black painted steel (magnetic), with two coated metal springs on the interior of the scabbard, that hold the knife in place once returned to the scabbard. The leather scabbard hanger is missing. Overall, this HJ knife is a typical example of a well-used knife, in overall very fine condition.