Hitler Youth Knife & Leader’s Dagger – Types, Periods, ID Tips
The HJ knife (Model 1933) was the first officially introduced edged weapon of a NS organization and saw use from 1933;
early blades carry the motto “Blut und Ehre” (Blood and Honor). From late 1936/1937 a Leader’s dagger with hanger
was introduced for authorized leaders (rare). Collectors focus on early/mid/late production, maker/RZM codes, and material changes.
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Production periods & markings
Early (c. 1933–1935)
Blade motto “Blut und Ehre” ; reverse with maker logo only.
Nickel-plated iron fittings; HJ diamond riveted (not glued); lacquered scabbard; black/brown frog.
Mid (c. 1936–1938)
Dual markings : maker + RZM M7/.. (sometimes RZM on ricasso).
Motto still present until the directive of 19 Aug 1938 (then omitted; remaining stock sold off).
Late (c. 1939–1942)
Mostly RZM only ; cost-saving alloys (zinc), simplified finish; substitute materials for leather parts.
Construction highlights
Blade: drop forged, with/without ricasso; stop leather/washer variants.
Hilt: nickel-plated casting; fishbone grips; pivoting HJ diamond.
Scabbard: steel with internal springs; leather frog with snap.
Variants & related pieces
DJ “small” knife (~20 cm incl. scabbard), typically no motto; likely late-war economy piece.
NSDStB student knife with different diamond.
Foreign youth knives (e.g., Dutch Jeugdstorm dagger by Eickhorn; Bulgarian/Spanish types).
HJ Leader’s dagger (from 1936/37)
Awarded by certificate; rare . Makers: Eickhorn (logo / RZM M7/66) , Hörster (RZM M7/36) .
Polished vs. nickel-plated blades; leather-covered scabbard; silver wire grip wrap; construction details vary by maker/period.
Authenticity tips
“Chromed” scabbards are typically refinishes or lighting artefacts; originals are lacquered/blued.
RZM for knives/daggers is M7/.. (never M6/..).
We Buy HJ Knives & Leader’s Daggers
We purchase HJ knives (early/mid/late), Leader’s daggers , DJ/NSDStB variants, documented pieces with hangers/boxes,
and rare foreign counterparts (e.g., Jeugdstorm).
Wanted:
Early blades with “Blut und Ehre” & maker logo
Dual-marked knives (maker + RZM M7/.. )
Leader’s daggers (Eickhorn/Hörster), complete sets
DJ small knives, NSDStB versions
➡️ Contact us .
FAQ
When did the motto stop?
After 19 Aug 1938 new knives were delivered without the motto; remaining stock could be sold.
Spotting late-war production?
Zinc/substitute materials, RZM-only, simplified finish, economy leather fittings.