Odd takouba like sword

[Iain]

Originally Posted by freebooter

Looking at all of these and in particular, the second from the bottom in the group of 4 swords shown, that they all resemble the Roman Gladius.

Gavin

Hi Gav,

Missed your comment before!

The similarity in some of the forms to Roman swords, or Celtic weapons in the case of some daggers and blades featuring various design motifs is interesting. But I tend to think of it as a matter of practicalities rather than any particular link.

The 'gladius' style blades are well suited to iron weapons or steel that is not particularly high in carbon content. While I'm no smith or metallurgist, my understanding is that a shorter blade is both easier to produce and a safer, stronger option than long, spatha style blades. This can be seen on this sword, where an old repair is visible. http://takouba.org/catalog/index.php...ins-long-sword

Lost legions would be tempting though!

[Iain]

Well I've finally been able to ID where this is from and just wanted to update this thread.

Cameroon regions. Below is a photo from 1917-18, archer in the front left is the one to be looking at.

[Tim Simmons]

Very well done. I really like it when members work at it. Good for you.

[manteris1]

good show.......................jimmy

[Iain]

Thanks guys, always a nice feeling to tick one of the unknowns off the list.

[Sajen]

Excellent research!