Paternosters on blades

Jim McDougall · 26th July 2022, 08:24 PM

The subject of paternosters, that is dots used to signify the prayers along with rosary beads, being carved into sword blades, is mentioned on occasion in references. However this does not seem common, and one writer in 1905 questioned this as pierced holes in the blade would weaken it for use.

Even Burton (1885) only mentioned such features in passing without any special notice.

Does anyone have examples of blades with such features? , as I have understood some are in the configuration of a cross.

Any references known referring to this as a valid practice with blades?

26th July 2022, 08:24 PM	#1
Jim McDougall Arms Historian Join Date: Dec 2004 Location: Route 66 Posts: 9,792	Paternosters on blades The subject of paternosters, that is dots used to signify the prayers along with rosary beads, being carved into sword blades, is mentioned on occasion in references. However this does not seem common, and one writer in 1905 questioned this as pierced holes in the blade would weaken it for use. Even Burton (1885) only mentioned such features in passing without any special notice. Does anyone have examples of blades with such features? , as I have understood some are in the configuration of a cross. Any references known referring to this as a valid practice with blades?