Original Item. Only One Available. This is a very nice, heavily service-worn German WWII HJ Fahrtenmesser (HJ Trip Knife), manufactured in 1939 by the Solingen-based firm of Friedrich Plücker Jr., Stahlwarenfabrik. The blade retains the clearly stamped RZM manufacturer code M7/62 and the date 1939, identifying production shortly before the outbreak of WWII in Europe. This example has considerable wear throughout, including a completely resurfaced blade, and is accompanied by its original-pattern steel scabbard with leather suspension.

The hilt is constructed from nickel-plated zinc alloy, with the original nickel finish now completely worn away, exposing the underlying gray metal with oxidation and surface wear. The crossguard retains its distinctive forward-curving finial, which is slightly bent inward. The black Bakelite grip plates have the characteristic closely checkered surface and are secured by two aluminum rivets. They remain in very good condition considering the overall wear, with some smoothing to the checkering from handling.

The obverse grip retains its attractive diamond-shaped HJ insignia, constructed from nickel silver with red, white, and black enamel surrounding the central swas. The enamel remains fully intact, with some age-related wear and oxidation to the surrounding metal. The insignia has developed a slight amount of movement within its recess over time.

The reverse of the blade retains the clearly legible marking:

((RZM))
M7/62
1939

This identifies manufacture by Friedrich Plücker Jr. of Solingen-Gräfrath. The M7 designation was used for edged weapons under the Reichszeugmeisterei licensing system, while 62 was the manufacturer's assigned number.

The knife is in heavily worn condition, with considerable age and handling wear throughout. Most notably, the blade has been completely resurfaced on both sides, leaving extensive grinding and polishing marks across the steel. This work has also modified the original leaf-shaped blade profile, particularly along the cutting edge and toward the point. The blade is currently relatively dull. Scattered oxidation, dark spotting, and surface scratches remain, although the important manufacturer marking and date are still clear. The exposed zinc-alloy hilt has acquired a dark gray patina, while the grip plates and enameled insignia remain comparatively well preserved.

The accompanying steel scabbard is similarly well worn, with extensive loss of the original black enamel finish, scratches, dents, and areas of surface oxidation. The leather suspension shows considerable age, including creasing, surface deterioration, and damage around its attachment. The retaining strap and black fastening button remain present. Of additional interest, the reverse of the leather belt loop bears an LFS marking stamped above an oak-leaf device. This marking is encountered on period HJ knife suspension leather, although its precise manufacturer attribution remains undetermined.

A very appealing, honestly worn HJ knife from the opening year of WWII, particularly interesting for its clearly dated Friedrich Plücker Jr. manufacture and the additional LFS-marked leather suspension.

Specifications:

Blade Length: approximately 5 1/2" [14.0 cm]
Blade Style: Single-edged knife
Overall Length: approximately 9 5/8" [24.4 cm]
Crossguard Width: approximately 1 7/8" [4.8 cm]
Scabbard Length: approximately 5 3/4" [14.6 cm]

Historical Context

The HJ, or AH Youth, was established in 1926 as the NSDAP's youth organization. Following AH's appointment as German Chancellor in 1933, the organization expanded rapidly as the regime absorbed or suppressed competing youth movements. Under Reich Youth Leader Baldur von Schirach, the HJ developed a structured program of political education, physical conditioning, outdoor activities, and military preparation. Camping expeditions, organized marches, field exercises, and instruction in map reading and navigation became regular parts of its training program, particularly for older boys preparing for military service.

The HJ Fahrtenmesser, introduced as a standardized pattern in 1933, was intended for use during these outdoor activities and became an established part of the organization's uniform equipment. Although designed as a practical utility knife, its military-style construction also suited the paramilitary character of HJ training. The knife was worn in a steel scabbard suspended from the uniform's leather waist belt, with the suspension arrangement allowing it to be carried securely during marches and field activities.

Production of the Fahrtenmesser underwent several changes during the 1930s. Early knives generally carried the etched HJ motto Blut und Ehre! ("Blood and Honor!") together with the manufacturer's commercial trademark. As manufacturing came under the supervision of the Reichszeugmeisterei (RZM), regulations introduced standardized identification codes for authorized producers. RZM manufacturing instructions issued in September 1935 required the organization's emblem, motto, and appropriate manufacturer identification. The motto was subsequently discontinued by an HJ directive dated August 19, 1938, with the change also published in the RZM regulations that September. Existing stocks bearing the earlier inscription could continue to be distributed.

The RZM system was part of the NSDAP's centralized control over the manufacture and sale of organizational uniforms and equipment. Established from the Party's earlier quartermaster administration, the Reichszeugmeisterei became responsible for licensing manufacturers and maintaining prescribed standards of design, materials, and workmanship. This system extended to edged weapons supplied for political and paramilitary organizations, with the M7 classification assigned to knives and daggers.

By 1939, the HJ had become an integral part of the German state's system of youth education and preparation for military service. The Law on the HJ of December 1, 1936 established the organization's official position in the state, while the Jugenddienstverordnung (Youth Service Regulation) of March 25, 1939 introduced compulsory service for eligible German youths between the ages of 10 and 18. Boys aged 10 to 14 belonged to the Deutsches Jungvolk (DJ), progressing into the HJ between the ages of 14 and 18. During the Second World War, the organization assumed increasing responsibilities in civil defense, agricultural assistance, and military support. Older members also received more intensive military instruction, and many subsequently entered the Wehrmacht or Waffen-SS.