Germany, HJ. A Member’s Knife, by Carl Wüsthof

(HJ Fahrtenmesser). A very well-preserved HJ member’s knife, measuring 25.5 cm in total length when inserted into the scabbard. It features a 13.5 cm-long, nickel-plated, magnetic steel blade with a sharpened tip and lower edge. Acid-etched onto the obverse of the blade is an inscription of “BLUT UND EHRE!” (“BLOOD AND HONOUR!”), while the reverse is maker marked “CARL WÜSTHOF, SOLINGEN”, with the firm’s “GLADIATORWERK” trade name. It sits securely within a nickel-plated magnetic metal hilt with a hooked quillon and pommel, and with an intact black leather buffer pad covering the seam. Two pieces of pebbled black bakelite compose the handle grip, and are secured in place with dual magnetic metal rivets. Inset into the obverse of the handle is an enameled HJ insignia measuring 15 mm (w) x 25 mm (h). The knife is accompanied by its original scabbard, constructed of a black painted magnetic metal shaft. Riveted to the back of the shaft is a black leather hanger, stitched into a loop for belt suspension, retaining a functional snap button to firmly hold the knife in place during storage. Some issues consistent with age and wear are evident, and include running marks and tarnishing to the blade, some scratching of the hilt’s nickel plating, and the loss of most of the scabbard’s paint. The knife remains in an overall better than very fine condition.