German Hunting swords , thoughts and facts

[Jim McDougall]

Originally Posted by M ELEY

Awesome collection of early hunting swords! Your research is very thorough! Not much to add but did want to point out (as Jim already did!) that many of these 'hanger' types also found their way into use by infantry and naval connections. The short, stout blades were ideal aboard the decks of very (over) crowded ships and it has even been said that the serrated blades originally meant for trussing game could be used to serrate rope, slash away fallen sails, etc. Likewise, many of these courtly swords were a show of prestige amongst naval officers.

Thank you for acknowledging my post Capn! As you have pointed out, the fact that these swords, while generally deemed 'hunting' weapons, also served in other capacity as required. This is most feasibly the reason that defensive guards were often present, despite the typical utilitarian connotation .