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#1 |
Member
Join Date: Jun 2006
Posts: 17
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I've never had any idea on the origin of this one. Blade is very hard steel that does not dull or pit as quickly as you would expect but does seem to have chipped a bit. Arrowhead shape unusual. Handles are more usual forged steel. Quite nice patina all over.
Paul ![]() ![]() ![]() |
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#2 |
Vikingsword Staff
Join Date: Nov 2004
Posts: 6,282
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I wonder if this might not be an unusual form of betel nut cutter .
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#3 |
Member
Join Date: Dec 2004
Location: Ann Arbor, MI
Posts: 5,503
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I would suggest a folding Katar.
Some "oriental" (especially Ottoman) examples of dagger scissors and Afghani folding Lohars are well known. See no reason why the same idea could not be applied to Katars. |
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#4 |
Member
Join Date: Mar 2005
Posts: 469
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Hi All,
A very nice piece. I would like to add one to my collection. It would appear that the tip has been broken off but the presence of a center rib indicates that this blade was meant for serious business. I suspect that the shortness of the blade coupled with the relative weakness of the hilt rivets at the pivot points suggests a civilian rather than military use (much like the Philippine balisongs). That the blade, like the balisongs, can be completely enclosed by the hilt seems to indicate that concealed/convenient civilian carry was important. These considerations wouldn't be necessary on a weapon intended for use in a military engagement. Sincerely, RobT |
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#5 |
Member
Join Date: Oct 2005
Location: Germany
Posts: 18
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Definetly betel nut cutter from Deccan, see:
Henry Brownrigg (1993) Betelschneider aus der Sammlung Eilenberg p: 61 There should be also an English edition of this book. |
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#6 |
Member
Join Date: Jun 2006
Posts: 17
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Rob and Ki you may both be right...
Following up on Ki's information regarding geographic origin. This from the site: http://www.le-betel.com/betel/ciseau...9/en_ci009.htm "Betel cutter of the « Katar » style. One of India’s most characteristic edged weapons. It has a triangular bladed punch-dagger. This cutter is very much like the « Katar », when turned upside down it is a weapon, and otherwise merely a silver betel cutter without any decoration. This betel cutter is used by women to protect themselves." Image ![]() Very interesting. Thanks for all the help. Have to trot a few of my other mysteries in coming weeks. Paul |
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#7 |
Member
Join Date: Feb 2007
Location: Coral Springs, FL
Posts: 222
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Bringing up this old thread because all the pictures are gone and the links are broken. This recently ended on ebay; is this of the same category, a betel cutter/folding katar?
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