Odd Afghan find for ID

archer · 6th November 2011, 01:27 AM

This cast steel dagger was found in rubble in Afghanistan. It is a somewhat crude casting, with a full size grip area 5 1/4 inch blade of Choora shape? overall 9 7/8s inch. The odd pommel shape reminds me of a Zafar type support, but, craftsmanship falls short.
How was it used?
It rings nicely. Was cast steel ever used for weapons? I believe that cast steel was used for Straight Razors , sheep shearing blades, etc. Were for example, any of the one piece Chilanums, cast and then hand finished? Casting an ornate hilt would have practical in those daggers with a wootz blade attached.

Any comments or ideas welcome, Steve

6th November 2011, 01:27 AM	#1
archer Member Join Date: Mar 2005 Posts: 373	Odd Afghan find for ID This cast steel dagger was found in rubble in Afghanistan. It is a somewhat crude casting, with a full size grip area 5 1/4 inch blade of Choora shape? overall 9 7/8s inch. The odd pommel shape reminds me of a Zafar type support, but, craftsmanship falls short. How was it used? It rings nicely. Was cast steel ever used for weapons? I believe that cast steel was used for Straight Razors , sheep shearing blades, etc. Were for example, any of the one piece Chilanums, cast and then hand finished? Casting an ornate hilt would have practical in those daggers with a wootz blade attached. Any comments or ideas welcome, Steve Attached Images