16th September 2023, 04:46 PM | #1 |
Member
Join Date: Oct 2009
Posts: 97
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Long Argentian (?) Knife
I was told that this was an Argentinian naval dirk but I have come to the conclusion that it is not, from what I can find of that class of weapon, but rather is a civilian knife. I can see why the original conclusion was drawn as the blade does have a military feel.
The blade is engraved 'José Spinelli Puan' It is also stamped 'spinelli' on the pommel cap and the belt hook. It has a leather scabbard with white metal fittings. The locket, chape and central section are all engraved and punch-decorated, rather nicely. The hilt is octagonal, white metal and also engraved and stamped. The blade is single edged and with a wide fuller either side. I am working on the assumption that Puan is the town in Buenos Aires. Dimensions Length 56cm Blade length 40cm Blade width 2.8cm Hilt length 1.3cm Hilt width 2cm x 3cm x 3cm Scabbard length 43cm Scabbard width 3.5cm |
16th September 2023, 06:06 PM | #2 |
Member
Join Date: Oct 2007
Posts: 1,596
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Hi,
This article should answer most of your questions. http://www.vikingsword.com/ethsword/facon/criollo.html I've had occasion to correspond with Mr Domenech and have found most helpful in identifying South American knives. Regards, Norman |
16th September 2023, 07:06 PM | #3 |
Member
Join Date: Oct 2009
Posts: 97
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Perfect! Thank you Norman - much appreciated. A facón. A fighting knife. Good to know.
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16th September 2023, 09:09 PM | #4 |
EAAF Staff
Join Date: Nov 2004
Location: Upstate New York, USA
Posts: 913
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The "white metal" is likely mostly silver, though unlikely up to sterling. A nice, desirable item with some age.
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16th September 2023, 11:14 PM | #5 |
Member
Join Date: Jun 2011
Location: Russia, Moscow
Posts: 370
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Absolutely right! This knife is from Argentina.
"Puan is a town in the province of Buenos Aires, Argentina. It is the administrative centre of the Puan Partido". |
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