Germany, HJ. A Member’s Knife, by Josef Hack, c. 1939

(HJ Fahrtenmesser). An HJ member’s knife, measuring 25 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. The reverse of the blade is marked with a Reichszeugmeisterei (RZM) logo and maker code “M7/103” for Josef Hack, Steyr, while the ricasso bears a manufacture date of “39”. The blade sits securely within a nickel-plated alloy 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 domed non-magnetic 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 its original 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 retains a functional metal snap button. Issues consistent with age and use are evident, and includes running marks to the blade with blunting of the tip, wear of the hilt’s nickel plating, and some loss of scabbard paint. This late-issue example remains in a very fine condition.