Use of Actual Vintage Arms as Props in Early Films

Kmaddock · 9th January 2023, 09:09 AM

Hi Jim

Not Hollywood or film but I got this out of a prop room in a theatre in Ireland

A Katana in what are known as handachi (half tachi) mount dating from 1580's, razor sharp and great condition.

I taught it was a good repro.

I lucked out on this one.

Keep well and thanks for all your great contributions, I still remember your very nice welcome to the forum many years ago.

Ken

Jim McDougall · 9th January 2023, 03:04 PM

Wow Ken! THAT is exactly what I'm talking about! and that is even beyond astonishing to have found such a treasure in this situation. Thank you so much for entering this here, and for the very kind words. Having you join us here was very much our good fortune.

With this unusual topic, I wanted to explore a bit more on exactly this kind of situation with weapons used theatrically and in other such situations. For example, I have discovered circumstances where actual vintage swords were used in Masonic lodges and among regalia.

Conversely, in investigation of certain items found archaeologically, it was discovered that for example, items thought to be antique have many times been actually theatrical props.

Thank you again, very much,
Very best regards
Jim

9th January 2023, 09:09 AM	#1
Kmaddock Member Join Date: May 2014 Location: Ireland Posts: 543	Hi Jim Not Hollywood or film but I got this out of a prop room in a theatre in Ireland A Katana in what are known as handachi (half tachi) mount dating from 1580's, razor sharp and great condition. I taught it was a good repro. I lucked out on this one. Keep well and thanks for all your great contributions, I still remember your very nice welcome to the forum many years ago. Ken Attached Images

9th January 2023, 03:04 PM	#2
Jim McDougall Arms Historian Join Date: Dec 2004 Location: Route 66 Posts: 10,587	Wow Ken! THAT is exactly what I'm talking about! and that is even beyond astonishing to have found such a treasure in this situation. Thank you so much for entering this here, and for the very kind words. Having you join us here was very much our good fortune. With this unusual topic, I wanted to explore a bit more on exactly this kind of situation with weapons used theatrically and in other such situations. For example, I have discovered circumstances where actual vintage swords were used in Masonic lodges and among regalia. Conversely, in investigation of certain items found archaeologically, it was discovered that for example, items thought to be antique have many times been actually theatrical props. Thank you again, very much, Very best regards Jim