Germany, HJ. A Member’s Knife, by Late-Issue Example, by Robert Klaas

(HJ Fahrtenmesser). An HJ member’s knife, measuring 24.5 cm in total length. It features a 14 cm-long, nickel-plated, magnetic steel blade which retains some factory-original sharpening to both the tip and lower edge. The reverse ricasso is marked with a Reichszeugmeisterei (RZM) logo and maker code “M7/37” for Robert Klaas, Solingen, above a code of “1239”, which is a documented anomaly on this Klaas variant, and may be a mis-print of “1939” or indicate production in December of 1939. The blade sits securely within a nickel-plated magnetic metal hilt with a hooked quillon and pommel, and with an intact blackened leather buffer pad covering the seam. Two pieces of pebbled black bakelite compose the handle grip, and are fastened in place with dual aluminum rivets. Inset into the obverse of the handle is an enameled HJ insignia measuring 15 mm (w) x 25 mm (l). Issues consistent with age and wear are evident, and include running marks and tarnishing to the blade, some loss of nickel plating to the hilt, a large crack to the reverse of the handle grip resulting in the loss of approximately half of the bakelite strip (exposing the tang), and possible replacement of the HJ insignia. This storied and late-issue example remains in a fair condition.