Extremely Rare set consisting of two different knives of the CroatianUstasha Youth from the Second World War period. The set includes the smaller model “Heroes of the Ustasha”as well as the larger knife “Youth Starčević”, both following the 1944 pattern. Their overall design was clearly influenced by contemporary German DJ utility knives of the Deutsche Jugend and represents an interesting example of Croatian youth organization equipment of the era.
Small knife “Heroes of the Ustasha”: Riveted grip plates made of deep black Bakelite with characteristicherringbone pattern. The single-edged steel blade is inserted into the grip and riveted in place. The original black-painted steel scabbard features a centrally positioned emblem on the front side. Overall length approximately 210 mm.
Large knife “Youth Starčević”: Version with attractivestag horn grip plates and single-edged steel blade. The reverse side of the blade is marked with the maker “Anton Wingen Solingen”. The overall design also follows the familiar style of contemporary youth and utility knives. Overall length approximately 250 mm.
Both knives show age-related wear and usage traces and retain an authentic historical appearance. Comparable original sets of Croatian youth organization edged weapons are rarely encountered on today’s collector market.
This type of knife is described in the book "Dirks of the World" (Weapons Academy) - Dmitry Fedurin
Very difficult to find !