Hitler Youth Knife [Mid-period] by RZM M7/66 (Original Eickhorn Solingen)
A well-preserved HJ Youth Knife from the mid-production period (approx. 1936–1938),
clearly stamped on the reverse of the blade with RZM M7/66 for
Carl Eickhorn, Solingen. An original example featuring all period-correct
manufacturing details and authentic age-related patina.
Grip: Riveted grip plates made of deep-black Bakelite with the sharply
defined fishbone pattern typical for mid-period production. In the center sits the
originally inserted HJ diamond emblem, properly crimped and untouched.
The single-side curved crossguard is tight and secure with no play—fully consistent
with production standards of the late 1930s.
Blade: Single-edged cast steel blade with the typical light use marks of the
period, free of major damage. The reverse carries the manufacturer and RZM markings:
RZM M7/66 – Carl Eickhorn, Solingen 39 – year code
The blade is factory-riveted into the grip and remains tight. Age-consistent
wear and handling marks, with no signs of re-sharpening.
Scabbard: Iron scabbard with original black paint / finish.
A textbook example of the mid-production period, showing typical minor paint losses
and carry marks. The throat and tip fittings are correctly riveted, and the leather
hanger corresponds to the contemporary configuration.
The HJ knife was introduced in 1933 as the standardized sidearm for
the Hitler Youth organisation. The mid-production period (approx. 1936–1938)
is defined by several distinct features:
black Bakelite grips with a pronounced fishbone pattern
properly crimped enamel diamond emblem set into the grip
single-side curved crossguard
mandatory RZM maker marking (introduced in the mid-1930s)
The RZM code M7/66 identifies the manufacturer
Carl Eickhorn, Solingen, one of the principal producers of HJ knives.
Well-preserved mid-period examples with sharp RZM markings and their original scabbards
are considered desirable collector pieces today.