Figuring out the age of a weapon

[Atlantia]

Originally Posted by patkinson

Hey guys,

Im relatively new to the forum, I have been trolling through and tried to search for an answer but was not successful.

I was wondering if there was a write up or a creditable source where I can learn (start to learn) the key factors when trying to find the age of a weapon.

If anyone can help it would be greatly appreciated

Hi Patkinson,

Firstly welcome to the forums.

It's a BIG question to be honest.
There are often a number of factors that go into such a judgement.
And those factors are often dependant on the type of weapon being evaluated.
Often weapon types evolve over time, and knowing how they've evolved may give you a 'base' age to begin with or at least a starting point for jugding its age.
Sometimes you will look at the materials used, the patina and ageing of parts, the oxidisation of metals and the patina on wood, ageing of leather, types of materials used can also give hints: Silver, 'white metal', aluminium. Hand forged or machine made.
Comparisons with modern examples and known reproductions can factor in as well.

It's sometimes a bit of detective work.
My advice would be to start by seeing and handling as many examples as you can of old weapons and get a 'feel' for them.

Best
Gene