How about this folding knife?
 

I've never had any idea on the origin of this one. Blade is very hard steel that does not dull or pit as quickly as you would expect but does seem to have chipped a bit. Arrowhead shape unusual. Handles are more usual forged steel. Quite nice patina all over.

Paul

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b2...n/IMG_0096.jpg
http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b2...n/IMG_0097.jpg
http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b2...n/IMG_0100.jpg

I wonder if this might not be an unusual form of betel nut cutter . :confused:

I would suggest a folding Katar.
Some "oriental" (especially Ottoman) examples of dagger scissors and Afghani folding Lohars are well known. See no reason why the same idea could not be applied to Katars.

Concealed Carry
 

Hi All,
A very nice piece. I would like to add one to my collection. It would appear that the tip has been broken off but the presence of a center rib indicates that this blade was meant for serious business. I suspect that the shortness of the blade coupled with the relative weakness of the hilt rivets at the pivot points suggests a civilian rather than military use (much like the Philippine balisongs). That the blade, like the balisongs, can be completely enclosed by the hilt seems to indicate that concealed/convenient civilian carry was important. These considerations wouldn't be necessary on a weapon intended for use in a military engagement.
Sincerely,
RobT

Definetly betel nut cutter from Deccan, see:

Henry Brownrigg (1993) Betelschneider aus der Sammlung Eilenberg p: 61
There should be also an English edition of this book.

Both right
 

Rob and Ki you may both be right...

Following up on Ki's information regarding geographic origin. This from the site: http://www.le-betel.com/betel/ciseau...9/en_ci009.htm

"Betel cutter of the « Katar » style. One of India’s most characteristic edged weapons. It has a triangular bladed punch-dagger. This cutter is very much like the « Katar », when turned upside down it is a weapon, and otherwise merely a silver betel cutter without any decoration. This betel cutter is used by women to protect themselves."

Image
http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b2...eman/ci009.jpg

Very interesting. Thanks for all the help.

Have to trot a few of my other mysteries in coming weeks.

Paul

Bringing up this old thread because all the pictures are gone and the links are broken. This recently ended on ebay; is this of the same category, a betel cutter/folding katar?