Condition: Excellent
Maker: Puma
Pattern: Early
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Product Description: This Hitler Youth Knife with Motto is an exceptional, early example, with a lot going for it. The desirable early type blade features a non-reinforced ricasso, and retains a complete “Blut und Ehre!” etching, which has been crisply and neatly applied. The blade does show light wear and age, with light graying along most of its length, as well as normal runner marks. Some cross-graining remains visible. The reverse of the blade is maker marked with the emblem of the sought-after maker PUMA in Solingen. This handsome knife has a wonderful handle, with undamaged bakelite grip plates. The inlaid Hitlerjugend diamond emblem retains all of its original enamel. The quillion and pommel are nickel plated, with no lifting of the finish, and only light patina. This HJ knife is complete with its original scabbard. The scabbard retains most of the original, factory applied glossy black paint, with light wear resulting in some paint loss near the tip. The leather belt loop is complete and sound, and remains pliable, with a functional retaining loop with snap. This Hitler Youth Knife with Motto has great eye appeal. It’s a choice piece, that remains in excellent condition.
Historical Description: 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.
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