German WWII HJ Knife w/Motto by Puma-This is a handsome example. This is a very good example with nickel-silver hilt fittings that have a finish that remains 90% intact. The black checkered grip plates along with the HJ enamel diamond grip insert are very good. There are two tiny holes in the enamel diamond. These are not very visible with the naked eye, but can be seen well under the magnifying glass. The enamel is not cracked or scratched. The blade is also very good, though it has been slightly sharpened. The motto is present, though it is a light etching and a bit difficult to see. This example has the maker’s name and logo for PUMA just under the crossguard. The scabbard’s original finish is at 95% intact and looks terrific. The brown leather belt loop is also in good condition and the snap clip functions correctly. This is a very collectible HJ knife!
History: The Hitler Youth Knife (Hitlerjugend Fahrtenmesser) was introduced in the summer of 1933, shortly after the Nazi seizure of power in Germany. It was produced by a multitude of manufacturers and could be purchased from authorized shops for a price of 4 Reichsmarks. It was used not only as a dress sidearm, but as a functional camping tool, and these were commonly sharpened by their original owners. The earliest examples bore the motto of the Hitler Youth, “Blut und Ehre!” (Blood and Honor), etched on the blade. The blades on these early knives were marked with commercial manufacturer logos. They had nickel silver handles, and anodized metal scabbards. The use of the etched motto was discontinued in August 1938. Later HJ knives had nickel plated steel handles, painted scabbards, and the maker logos were replaced with an RZM code along with the year of manufacture. There are also transitional types that still have the etched motto but have dates on the blade ricasso. Manufacture of these knives is believed to have ceased around 1942. All HJ knives have the diamond emblem of the Hitler Youth on the handle.
Online checkout is not supported for edged weapons. Please note that some items are listed as "SOLD OUT" for this reason. All edged weapons listed on the website are available for purchase. Please contact us for any questions, or to purchase thanks!