Germany, HJ. A Member’s Knife, by Gustav Felix

(HJ Fahrtenmesser). An HJ member’s knife, measuring 25.5 cm in total length when inserted into the scabbard. It features a 14 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!”). The reverse ricasso bears a transitional maker’s mark consisting of a manufacturer’s logo reading “G. FELIX, SOLINGEN”, flanked by the firm’s “GLORIAWERK” trade name, with an additional Reichszeugmeisterei (RZM) logo and code “M7/28” for the same maker. The blade sits within a nickel-plated magnetic metal hilt with a hooked quillon and pommel, with an intact black leather buffer pad covering the seam. Two pieces of pebbled black bakelite compose the handle grip, secured together with dual non-magnetic metal rivets, with an enameled HJ insignia inset into the obverse of the handle. The knife is accompanied by its original scabbard, constructed of a black painted magnetic metal shaft. Riveted to the reverse of the shaft is a malleable black celluloid hanger fastened into a loop for belt suspension, and retaining a functional snap button to firmly hold the knife in place during storage. Issues consistent with age and use are evident, and include running marks and tarnishing to the blade, the loss of approximately half of the reverse handle grip, loss of scabbard paint, and possible replacement of the hanger. The knife remains in a fair condition.