Quote:
Originally Posted by Interested Party
There is a book of facsimiles of old weapons catalogs from the late 19th early 20th century (publication date in the late 1960's I believe) that we used sometimes to help determine what we had and its original value. There was a section of old machete ads that, I think, had styles of machetes similar to this in several lengths. I have been trying to remember the title of this book for a year, if someone has a title for me help would be appreciated. But to the point I believe there were some machetes like this, maybe manufactured in Germany??? After twenty plus years my memory is a bit fuzzy on this.
Sorry for not being able to give a citation.
Is there is distinct distil taper in the handle section that would allow for widening the grip to create the pommel? Could that be done if the first step was upsetting the base of the tang with localized heats? There is not a serial number on the other side of the blade which I associate with former military items. I think I am leaning towards factory made tool/weapon as much as I would like to see a repurposed machete. Proportionally at around 18.5 in it seems too wide to be a bayonet.
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Are you perhaps thinking of the old catalogs of the "Museum of Historical Arms" , Hoffman brothers based in Florida?
Back in 'the old days' in the late 60s and 70s these catalogs of old arms for sale by mail were invaluable references used before most of the reference volumes used today were published. They are still much cherished by many collectors when found in old book stores (quickly vanishing).