Germany, HJ. A Member’s Knife, Transitional Example by Hartkopf & Co.

(HJ Fahrtenmesser). A well-preserved transitional 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 factory-original sharpening to both the tip and lower edge. The reverse of the blade bears a maker’s mark of “HARTKOPF & CO., SOLINGEN”, flanked by the firm’s classic double devil logo. The ricasso is marked with a Reichszeugmeisterei (RZM) logo and maker code of “M7/40” for the same manufacturer. It sits securely within a nickel-plated alloy hilt featuring a hooked quillon and pommel to facilitate a secure grip, with a blackened leather buffer pad covering the seam. Two pieces of pebbled black bakelite compose the handle grip, and are fastened in place 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). Accompanying the knife is its original scabbard, constructed of a black painted magnetic metal shaft. Riveted to the reverse of the shaft is a blackened leather hanger secured into a loop for belt suspension. A functional spring catch situated within the throat firmly holds the knife in place during storage. Issues consistent with age and wear are evident, and include running marks and tarnishing to the blade, loss of nickel plating to the hilt, scratching to the handle insignia, loss of paint throughout the scabbard, and some fatigue of the hanger. This transitional (c. 1940) example remains in a better than very fine condition.