Ethnographic Arms & Armour - View Single Post

M ELEY · 12th July 2009, 02:37 AM

Actually, the Germans didn't have exclusive rights to the "rough-hewn stag hilt look" on swords and hangers. I have seen similar hilts on many Scottish pieces, as well as some colonial American. It was a matter of taste and perhaps aided in allowing a good grip for the hunter while butchering (that could get the knife quite gory and slippery). Your knife's hilt does appear to have some aging to it, but the blade has a more modern appearance. Hard to tell. I'd guess at oldest, it dates to late 19th century, well after the period where the Germans were referred to as Hessians. I'm with you on wanting a nice old hanger. Perhaps some day-

Mark

12th July 2009, 02:37 AM	#10
M ELEY Member Join Date: Dec 2004 Location: NC, U.S.A. Posts: 2,075	Actually, the Germans didn't have exclusive rights to the "rough-hewn stag hilt look" on swords and hangers. I have seen similar hilts on many Scottish pieces, as well as some colonial American. It was a matter of taste and perhaps aided in allowing a good grip for the hunter while butchering (that could get the knife quite gory and slippery). Your knife's hilt does appear to have some aging to it, but the blade has a more modern appearance. Hard to tell. I'd guess at oldest, it dates to late 19th century, well after the period where the Germans were referred to as Hessians. I'm with you on wanting a nice old hanger. Perhaps some day- Mark