Help with translation and ID

[harrywagner]

Originally Posted by kronckew

rotated right way up is layering like that pommel end shot typical of a rhino grip? the star of david is often seen on yemeni knives, hebrew makers were an accepted part of the community as 'people of the book'.

Thanks! I don't have an answer for your hilt question. I think it is rhino, but am no expert. If it is then it is one of four I have with rhino hilts. Three look similar to this but the other is almost the same color as an orange. Stephen Gracie discusses this in his book Jambiya. Let me know if you would like the page number.

After a closer inspection I have come to two possible conclusions about this knife. First, it is a different beast. The hilt is noticeably smaller than that of any other Jambiya I have seen. The second thing that strike me, and something you notice as soon as you pick it up, is its weight. It weighs almost nothing, and yet it is all business. This is no toy. I think this may have been intentional and is the reason the hilt does not have the metal band typically found around the base of the hilt. I think weight may also have been the driving force behind the embossed brass sheath cover. It is durable and light. The blade is forged and good steel. Too good for the owner to have been a cheapskate. I think this is one of two things:

- a knife meant for a child
- what I call a "keeper". Items get heavy after a while. People throw away things they would never have dreamed they would toss once they realize their survival may depend on lightening their load. Not the one though. It weighs almost nothing.

Thanks much for the help. I hope someone can translate the Arabic.

Harry