Long Argentian (?) Knife

[Jerseyman]

I was told that this was an Argentinian naval dirk but I have come to the conclusion that it is not, from what I can find of that class of weapon, but rather is a civilian knife. I can see why the original conclusion was drawn as the blade does have a military feel.

The blade is engraved 'José Spinelli Puan' It is also stamped 'spinelli' on the pommel cap and the belt hook.

It has a leather scabbard with white metal fittings. The locket, chape and central section are all engraved and punch-decorated, rather nicely. The hilt is octagonal, white metal and also engraved and stamped. The blade is single edged and with a wide fuller either side.

I am working on the assumption that Puan is the town in Buenos Aires.


Dimensions

Length 56cm
Blade length 40cm
Blade width 2.8cm
Hilt length 1.3cm
Hilt width 2cm x 3cm x 3cm
Scabbard length 43cm
Scabbard width 3.5cm

[Norman McCormick]

Hi,
This article should answer most of your questions. http://www.vikingsword.com/ethsword/facon/criollo.html I've had occasion to correspond with Mr Domenech and have found most helpful in identifying South American knives.
Regards,
Norman

[Jerseyman]

Perfect! Thank you Norman - much appreciated. A facón. A fighting knife. Good to know.

[Lee]

The "white metal" is likely mostly silver, though unlikely up to sterling. A nice, desirable item with some age.

[Ren Ren]

Absolutely right! This knife is from Argentina.
"Puan is a town in the province of Buenos Aires, Argentina. It is the administrative centre of the Puan Partido".