Lew Waldman's Ethnographic Arms & Armour Collection Archive


1022 - Indian Steel Katar Dagger with Sheath

The double-edged blade is 6½ inches (16½ cm) long with a central midrib on either side and a thickened (reinforced) point (up to 0.2 inch (0.5 cm) in thickness. Some areas show dark brown rust and pitting, but the majority has been ground and polished for a bright metal surface and in foci are discolorations suggesting a light etch in search of grain. The oxidized layer under the curved bar from which the blade originates suggests a refurbished old munitions-grade katar, however a more recent casting cannot be excluded. The dagger is accompanied by a recent leather covered wood sheath. Overall sheathed length is 12 inches (31 cm) with a weight of 9¾ ounces (282 grams).




Return to item index page