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stephen wood
22nd August 2013, 12:09 PM
...I know very little about the Yataghan - could any members help me with this one's possible origin?

ariel
22nd August 2013, 12:13 PM
Just a common Bulgarian Karakulak.

stephen wood
22nd August 2013, 12:29 PM
...Isn't it a bit long for that? Just over 2' (620mm)

kronckew
22nd August 2013, 10:50 PM
don't think so. mine: 21" blade, 27" overall.

TVV
23rd August 2013, 01:07 AM
My opinion is very similar to Ariel's. The form with non-decorated, steel bolster and the engraved pattern at the beginning of the blade towards the spine are all typical of what in Bulgaria is called "karakulak". I suspect that the wooden hilt is a replacement.

62 cm is longer than usual, but not unheard of. It certainly places this one more into the "combat/self defense" category as opposed to a more common "utility" example. Nice find,

Teodor

stephen wood
23rd August 2013, 09:32 AM
...many thanks for your help - are there any illustrations of this type being worn? Any suggestions as to a likely period?

kronckew
23rd August 2013, 12:27 PM
probably worn in a basic black leather covered wood scabbard thrust thru the belt or sash. mine was dated to somewhere in the 19th c. someone said early 19th, but i think later...

(couldn't find any bulgarian karakulak wearers illustrations or photos yet.)

TVV
23rd August 2013, 10:24 PM
The scabbards are usually wooden, with a few crude iron or brass bands holding them together and often not covered by leather. Those likely date to the second half of the 19th - early 20th century.

Teodor

TVV
7th September 2013, 09:37 PM
Here is a picture of two kulak knives of the longer "fighter" variety with scabbards, showing that these knives did not really have elaborate dress.

Teodor