Anglo-Indian Knives

[Sajen]

Originally Posted by A. G. Maisey

I asked the question because I felt that I needed to understand the reason, or reasons, why two experienced people should select the post #6 knife as "better" than all others.

Hello Alan, like said already in my previous response, the words "better" & "older" I use in comparison to the three pieces at the right from Ian in post #1 with the one in post #6, I've handled some pieces similar to the 3 (let me call them "tourist" dagger) from Ian, they look nice but all is very cheap worked and I doubt that a dagger like this is usable.
The other shown examples seems to be very well worked, no question, the T-spine blades are well worked from the view to look at a usable dagger, a very nice to look at and for sure workable weapon. The handle is an intricate small work of art. But again I think that the dagger in post #6 is older and was for sure intended for use.

Originally Posted by A. G. Maisey

Why is it "better"?

Because, and here I speak for my own taste/sensation, it's a used ethnograhic dagger!

Originally Posted by A. G. Maisey

What makes it "better"?

I am nearly sure that it will have a very well worked (maybe laminated) blade, the signs of use.

Originally Posted by A. G. Maisey

What does "better" mean?

My personal taste, again the curiosity to see and work at the blade, the clearly signs of use.

I hope to have answered your questions in a way you want to know.