Early Dagger, origin possibly Scottish

M ELEY · 22nd March 2013, 02:35 AM

I have been following the thread with interest, but unfortunately have no knowledge in this area. It does resemble the earlier ballock type, as noted. Jim's excellent comments are the most thorough so far. I'm wondering what the type of wood the hilt material is made from and if it could tell us anything? What was the most common type of wood used for Scottish dirks?
Jim, you mention that the placement of the mark is consistent with those found on cutlery of the period. Could this have been a simple tool knife or from a trouse versus an actual fighter?

Cathey · 23rd March 2013, 02:53 AM

Hi guys

Sorry I have been so slow to respond, however work interferes with my research time. I have attached the page from The Scottish Dirk by James D Foreman featuring a similar dirk in better condition (without the top and bottom of the hilt damage). He described the wood as root wood whatever that is. Any more thoughts appreciated.

Cheers Cathey and Rex

23rd March 2013, 02:53 AM	#2
Cathey Member Join Date: Oct 2009 Location: adelaide south australia Posts: 284	Early Dirk Hi guys Sorry I have been so slow to respond, however work interferes with my research time. I have attached the page from The Scottish Dirk by James D Foreman featuring a similar dirk in better condition (without the top and bottom of the hilt damage). He described the wood as root wood whatever that is. Any more thoughts appreciated. Cheers Cathey and Rex Attached Images

22nd March 2013, 02:35 AM	#1
M ELEY Member Join Date: Dec 2004 Location: NC, U.S.A. Posts: 2,152	I have been following the thread with interest, but unfortunately have no knowledge in this area. It does resemble the earlier ballock type, as noted. Jim's excellent comments are the most thorough so far. I'm wondering what the type of wood the hilt material is made from and if it could tell us anything? What was the most common type of wood used for Scottish dirks? Jim, you mention that the placement of the mark is consistent with those found on cutlery of the period. Could this have been a simple tool knife or from a trouse versus an actual fighter?