An iron sheath ... or a frame of it, for comments

[Will M]

Any context to where it was found and when?
i would say not more than a century old.
The ball on the end could be a pivot point. It's not a weapon or part of one.

[fernando]

Ho ... well; one century is better than half one. And in such case prior to re-enacting habits ... i guess ?
Also assuming this sheath was once complete, with its side plates made in a degradable material, like wood, it would be difficult that not a splinter was left, or stuck to the rust, after only a few decades ... my guess.
It was purportedly found in the Portuguese upper Southwest coast.
When i mention the ball in the end being secured with a 'nail', was just to describe the fixation technique. Actually when i check it again, i can see a pin going through the whole thing; pointing out in both sides
Here are pictures taken before i brought it.

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[fernando]

Any further thoughts, Gentlemen ? ...

[Mel H]

My thinking was more of something that was a permanent component part of the tool, used to protect the soft wood while in use, rather than a removable tool protection device.
I'm sure that someone will recognise it.
Being the owner of several mystery objects acquired over the years, I'd be interested to know.

[fernando]

Originally Posted by Mel H

My thinking was more of something that was a permanent component part of the tool, used to protect the soft wood while in use, rather than a removable tool protection device.
I'm sure that someone will recognise it.
Being the owner of several mystery objects acquired over the years, I'd be interested to know.

I see your point Mel but, i am reluctant to digest that this is a non weapon implement. Not so much a question of common sense but, i would be frustrated to realize that i acquired something i wasn't expecting ... at all.
If ever someone pops up and shows us he is famiiar with this thing as not being a scabbard frame and, once you fancy odd obects, you can have it ... and i mean it. .

[thinreadline]

I dont think this is the frame of a recently made re enactment scabbard ... it is too complex in its structure ... modern made scabbards of this type are much more simplistic . I think this is old ... however knowing where it was found would be the key of course . Iron does not last long except in certain environments.

[Kmaddock]

Hi
I have no image re sizer on my device so no images available
If you google

Smatchet fighting knife FS

this shape scabbard would be a good match

It would also match the
welsh fusiliers knife
made in WWI sorry no images of either but search the above 2 and you should see what I mean size would be wrong but shape would match

Regards

Ken

[fernando]

Originally Posted by thinreadline

I dont think this is the frame of a recently made re enactment scabbard ... it is too complex in its structure ... modern made scabbards of this type are much more simplistic . I think this is old ... however knowing where it was found would be the key of course . Iron does not last long except in certain environments.

That is rather comforting ... thank you.
I was told the area that it came from (post #7); a small penisula once occupied by the Romans until the 6th century. Whether it was excavated from under the ground or found at the open air, is something i wonder. But i am almost certain that it was unearthed. However i am not afirming that there is a link between this piece and the Roman occupation.


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