Burmese dagger?

[Sajen]

Originally Posted by russel

Thanks Sajen.

The antler handle seems an obvious later addition. I can imagine there is a walking stick out there somewhere with an ivory Dha hilt tip! Can anyone recommend a suitable material (other than ivory) to make a replacement with?

Hi Russel,

I personally wouldn't change the handle. It seems that it is already long with the blade and a part of the history of this dagger. So why change it?

Regards,

Detlef

[Gavin Nugent]

Originally Posted by Sajen

Hi Russel,

I personally wouldn't change the handle. It seems that it is already long with the blade and a part of the history of this dagger. So why change it?

Regards,

Detlef

I too would not be in a hurry to change or replace the handle...for with this path, you may as well start building customs knives rather than appreciate ethnographic items.

Congrats.

Gavin

[russel]

On reflection, your thoughts are good advice indeed. I am not in the habit of making alterations, so I won't start now. I'll concentrate on making a scabbard for it, as that is sadly lacking. The one in the photo is a modern plastic sheath which the Dha has been stored in. That may have contributed to the rust, which luckily looks minor enough to clean up easily.

Am I correct in thinking it is Burmese? Or might it be Thai? How old is it likely to be?

Russel