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Originally Posted by fearn
So Jim,
You're saying that this is a blade you could count on? 
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Yup! If one was on the wrong end they'd get the point!!
Just wondering exactly how much measuring these were really used for. Most references seem to suggest they were to clear touch holes or spike the weapon in last resort, also to use if emplacement overrun.
I'm just curious why the markings never appeared before the 17th century, at least according to known literature.
Or was the alleged marking on blades, as suggested, to circumvent the 'stiletto control law' ?
The emphasis on these seems to center in Northern Italy.....are there any references or examples showing use of these with artillery in other countries.
There are references suggesting these are calculation numbers to set trajectory. How were elevations determined and set before the 17th century on artillery....were there tools or special settings for calculation before they were applied to stilettos ?
It seems that if an artllery emplacement was overrun, it would be by either cavalry or infantry with long muskets and bayonets. How effective would a close quarters stiletto be against such opposition?
Mythbusters, here we go
All the best,
Jim