Germany, HJ. A Member’s Knife, by C.D. Schaaff

(HJ Fahrtenmesser). A well-preserved HJ member’s knife, measuring 260 mm in total length when inserted into the scabbard. It features a 145 mm-long polished 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 bears a maker’s mark of “C.D. SCHAAFF, SOLINGEN”, flanked by a Reichszeugmeisterei (RZM) logo and maker code of “M7/56” for the same manufacturer. The blade sits securely within a one-piece nickel-plated magnetic metal hilt with a hooked quillon and pommel, and with an intact black leather buffer pad. Two pieces of pebbled black bakelite comprise the handle grip, secured together 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). It is accompanied by its period original scabbard, constructed of a black painted magnetic metal shaft. The throat retains a functional spring catch, firmly holding the knife in place during storage. Riveted to the shaft is a black leather strap with a functional metal snap button for belt suspension. Some issues consistent with age and use are evident, and include tarnishing and running marks to the blade, slight loss of finish to the nickel-plated features, and minor fatigue of the leather strap. The knife is in an overall very fine condition.