17th CENTURY SAILORS KNIFE

Forged iron of large proportions, 8 ¼” closed and 12” opened. The case curving to terminate in a fid for splicing lines (rope). Hinged blade with an acutely blunted tip which even has a raised false edge to amplify its obtuse form. Integral curved base shank and original suspension ring. Period of the great treasure ships and the pirates that pursued them. The majority of sailors were shanghaied or from press gangs which rounded up men fit for sea service against their will. The prospect for attack of an officer or fellow seaman or mutiny resulted in their being provided knives with usefulness as weapons reduced by design.