There are different handle forms, I guess that you can date them by the form but need further research in this direction, but all have the so-called "Nagel" (nail), by my example formed in a small shell disc, which should prevent a slipping down from the hand to the edge. My example is rather short, these knives could be much longer.
See also here:
http://www.vikingsword.com/vb/showth...ght=bauernwehr