HJ Dagger, by Anton WInger Jr.
Price: $1250
BUY / RESERVE THIS ITEMDescription: Circa 1941 HJ knife, has a drop forged steel, single edged, non-fullered blade. Maker marked ‘RZM M7/51/41’ (maker Anton WInger Jr.) on the left ricasso; the blade is bright displaying a factory edge and retaining nearly all its cross grain with only the slightest of runner-marks to one side. The leather buffer remains there as well. The cross guard and a stylized eagle head pommel or all bright nickel plated and flawless. The knife has molded, black, checkered bakelite grips.. The obverse grip has an embedded enameled HJ diamond. The diamond is the large variety with the correct translucent red enamel with a pebbled field visible underneath. The black lacquered steel scabbard is excellent with brown leather straps that are complete with working black-enamel snap. Superior to most and about as good as they come, a hard one to upgrade!
Reference: Collectors Guide to Hitler Youth Knives, Vol II by Nathan Hogle
Background: The HJ Fahrtenmesser, (Hike/Camp knife), was introduced in early 1933 and was the first blade sidearm to be officially sanctioned by the NSDAP. An additional NSDAP party formation, the DJ Deutsche Jugend, (German Youth), with members, aged 10-14, were also permitted wear of the HJ camp knife. The distribution of the HJ knife was controlled by the NSDAP and was dependent on the recipient successfully completing the appropriate proficiency requirements and tests. After meeting the requirements the individual was still responsible for purchasing the HJ camp knife through official channels. Regulations stated that the HJ knife was only to be worn while the recipient was in uniform, although it is highly doubtful that young boys/men adhered to these regulations unless they were strictly enforced. Originally the HJ camp knives had a blade inscription with the HJ motto, “Blut und Ehre!”, (Blood and Honor), inscribed in a facsimile of the HJ Reichsjugendführer, (Hitler Youth National Youth Leader), Baldur von Schirach’s handwriting, but in August 1938 the blade inscription was discontinued. In October 1942 further production of the HJ knives was officially discontinued.
