Germany, HJ. A Member’s Knife, Transitional Example, by Weyersberg, Kirschbaum & Cie

(HJ Fahrtenmesser). A well-preserved 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 which retains some factory-original sharpening to the lower edge. Acid-etched onto the obverse is an inscription of “BLUT UND EHRE!” (“BLOOD AND HONOUR!”) in cursive script. The reverse bears transitional maker marks consisting of the classic knight’s helmet logo of the firm of Weyersberg, Kirschbaum & Cie, Solingen, topped by a Reichszeugmeisterei (RZM) logo and maker code “M7/42” for the same, with a manufacture date of “1936”. The blade sits securely within a nickel-plated magnetic steel hilt with a hooked quillon and pommel 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 metal rivets. Inset into the obverse of the handle is an enameled HJ insignia measuring 15 mm (w) x 25 mm (h). Accompanying the knife is a matching scabbard, constructed of a black painted magnetic metal shaft. Riveted to the reverse is a blackened leather strap configured into a loop for belt suspension, which also retains a functional snap button to hold the knife in position during wear. A functional spring catch situated within the throat firmly holds the blade within the scabbard. Issues consistent with age and wear are evident, and include blunting of the tip, running marks, scratching, and sporadic chipping to the blade, minor fatigue of the hanger, and friction which impacts insertion and extraction of the blade from the scabbard. This transitional example remains in a better than very fine condition.