Dagger ID & Verification Requested
 

Hi All,

I don’t recognize this type of dagger which is in very good condition. Both of these factors make me suspicious. On the other hand, save for some blade grind irregularities, the entire ensemble appears to be very well done and the blade is quite lethal.
The blade measures 9.5” (24.13 cm) long, 1.75” (4.445 cm) across the flat at the hilt, and .25” (6.35 mm) thick at the ricasso.
If the hilt and the sheath fittings aren’t silver, somebody did a very good job of making them look like it. Somehow, the work on the hilt and sheath reminds me of what is seen on kothimari khukris.

Sincerely,
RobT

The bird's head reminds me of some Indian swords. e.g.

Kothimora khukuries are usually decorated in silver or gold. If the knife were intended for well-to-do patrons it would be dressed and finished accordingly. They would know what silver is, what gold is and what good workmanship looks like. This knife lacks that and was likely intended for the casual buyer who lacks experience and can be persuaded that this represents a quality heirloom. Btw, ignore the decorations and focus on the blade. It’s the most important component and the first thing that needs to be mastered on an upscale knife.

N2s

Second Rate?
 

Not2sharp,

Well, you’re saying that the metalwork of the hilt and on the sheath of the item in question is second rate? All I can say in response is that you must be acquainted with kothimora of a far higher type than I have ever seen. This includes virtually every kothimora item that I have seen on this forum (and the ones on the now defunct khukri forum). Perhaps you could show us the kothimora items from your collection that markedly exceed the quality of the one I have presented?

Sincerely,
RobT

Hi,

I believe this is a good Indian dagger from around 1900–1920, likely from the colonial period. You might also try searching for “Indian Bowie knives” for comparison.

Best,