German Hunting swords , thoughts and facts

[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.

[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 .

[Teisani]

This hunting sword hilt reminds me a bit of IX.634 from the Royal Armouries.
https://collections.royalarmouries.o...bject-120.html

[Akanthus]

Originally Posted by Teisani

This hunting sword hilt reminds me a bit of IX.634 from the Royal Armouries.
https://collections.royalarmouries.o...bject-120.html

Thank you.Very interesting......

[Jim McDougall]

Yes, most interesting I agree.

[PhDBrewer]

Great write up!
Howard Backmore writes about cabbalistic writings that possess some "mystical quality to spur him on to greater deeds or bring him luck". I find the blade markings quite interesting.
Here is an example from an early 18th century Hirschfänger.
William

[Akanthus]

Originally Posted by PhDBrewer

Great write up!
Howard Backmore writes about cabbalistic writings that possess some "mystical quality to spur him on to greater deeds or bring him luck". I find the blade markings quite interesting.
Here is an example from an early 18th century Hirschfänger.
William

Yes,there are wonderful decorations on huntingsword blades.Often game,like stags,wildboars,bears but also hares.On some you find little poems spending luck.Also floral decor is loved.