Germany, HJ. A Late-War HJ Member’s Knife

(HJ-Fahrtenmesser). A well-preserved, late-war example of a HJ member’s knife, measuring 255 mm in length when inserted into the scabbard. The knife features a 140 mm-long magnetic metal blade with a blunted tip and semi-sharpened edge. No inscription is present on the blade, which is maker marked near the reverse ricasso with partially-visible Reichszeugmeisterei (RZM) mark and a maker’s code beginning with “M7/”, all indicating late manufacture. The blade sits securely within the one-piece nickel-plated handle, with the seam covered by an intact black leather buffer pad. The handle presents with a hooked quillon and features a grip composed of two strips of pebbled black bakelite secured together by dual rivets. Inset into the obverse of the handle is an enameled HJ insignia measuring 15 mm (w) x 25 mm (h). It is accompanied by its period original scabbard, constructed of a blackened magnetic metal shaft. The throat is held together by a single rivet and retains a functional spring catch, securely holding the knife in place during storage. A brown leather strap is secured to the shaft by dual rivets, and retains a functional snap button for uniform attachment. Material fatigue consistent with age and field use is evident, and including some oxidation of the metal finish, loss of finish to the nickel-silver and black painted features, and deterioration of the leather. The knife presents in an overall better than very fine condition.