Hi Andrew,
It is very difficult to determine whether the areas that have this pattern of discolouration (which seems to give the cross hatching 'effect') is evidence that this is made from a file.(even when viewed under magnification) The blade 'rings' when tapped and has slight 'flex' which 'springs' back. If a file was used I would imagine that it was annealed and re-tempered with less hardness/brittleness of that of the file.
The blade tapers to a 'shoulder' ...then to a rat tail tang that appears to be peened at the pommel (the metal disc of the pommel has plenty of dings and dents and is impossible to see).
I am assuming that this is some sort of throwing knife..purely because of the balance and ease of use (its certainly been fun
).
This could just as easily be used as a stabbing weapon.....perhaps covertly carried ...despite its length....it could easily be concealed in clothing as it is so slim.
Hi Tim,
when I first saw this I suspected Morocco, for two reasons, as you pointed out the stacked handle is common to the region.....but also I seem to remember a reference to a long thin pointed stilleto (no sharpened edges) and was guardless....which were concealed in the sleeves........