UBB.threads Forums Edged Weapons HJ Edged Weapons Forum HJ honor dagger.

I've never see this inscription on the blade "Gladiator". What's your opinion?

Thanks.

Inscription

Hi Matarese,

I would say you're right, this appears to be one of the so called HJ honor bayonets. Not sure how much you know about them, not much is written on the subject save a few pictures and passing mentions in a couple of references. I know there's a picture of one in Ron Weinand's "Clamshells". They differ in size, weight and construction from the standard HJ knife and appear to be Late Weimar/ early 3R era fighting knives that were probably utilized as early HJ type knives before standardization took over.

There are several types of these out there, all with variations of the pommel etch, grip plates and blade etches. Many have blades that are not maker marked while a few will have the "Gladiator" mark on one side and a Carl W�sthof maker mark on the other. The scabbard is also a variation from the standard HJ scabbard, most noticeably with the retention strap that is placed lower on the grip so as not to cover the pommel etch.

They are not often seen and generally bring a healthy price if in good condition. I have a similar piece, also by Gladiator, with the same pommel etch, stag grip plates and the SS motto on the blade obverse.

Here's the Gladiator mark , identical to yours.

Here's the obverse maker's mark by Carl W�sthof. Is yours similarly marked?