What is an antique blade?

An antique blade encompasses historical edged weapons and concealed knife items forged from steel across various centuries. These range from military swords and bayonets to daggers and hidden cane blades. Collectors encounter items originating from European, Japanese, and Indo-Persian traditions, each reflecting the specific metallurgical techniques and military requirements of their respective periods.

How do sword sticks work?

A sword stick houses a steel blade securely inside a hollow wooden or material shaft that functions as a walking cane during everyday use. A mechanical catch or button release secures the blade within the housing. When pressed, the mechanism allows the user to draw the concealed weapon from the protective wooden exterior.

How old are these weapons?

The items span a chronological range from the 14th century through the Victorian era and into the early 20th century. Japanese samurai pieces often date to earlier historical periods like the Edo era. European military sabres and walking sticks predominantly represent 19th-century and Edwardian manufacturing dates.

What materials were used?

Makers utilised forged steel for the blades, complemented by various woods such as malacca, hazel, partridge wood, and ebony for the shafts and handles. Mounts frequently incorporated brass, silver, gold plate, horn, and leather. Certain specialised walking pieces also featured ceramic handles such as Sevres porcelain or decorative papier-mâché.