Germanic War Knife

 

Something for my Germanic kit! This has been a long time in the works and it's finally finished.

This started its life as a large file made of 1960s tool steel. Some time ago, I ground the metal to comfortable specs for a reenactment combat reconstruction of a germanic war knife based upon the 2nd century Illerup finds. It was heat treated by a friend and fellow craftsman to be prepared for the rigors of combat.

The grip is based largely upon finds from 2nd-3rd century Vimose bogs. It is made of oak, sealed in boiled linseed oil and beeswax, butted and bolstered in copper. The target-shaped pips are a common theme in Germanic decor and indeed on others throughout history.

The sheath is based upon those found at Illerup as well. It is made of leather with the unique flat-bottom chape, made of copper.

Can't wait to "introduce" it to some Romans at our Germanic event this summer!