South Sudan spear dagger

[katana]

Originally Posted by ariel

Then, why make a scabbard for it?
And, in general, the scabbard is much more "professional" than the blade. And just imagine the ease with which the "dagger" can be drawn out or inserted.....
Makes no sense to me, unless we are talking about a "marriage". Or the Sudanese have a very perverted sense of humor.

Hi Ariel,
usually a dagger is slender and sharply pointed ..... deep, precise penetration is it's main intended function, which could be repeated quickly by the lack of resistance whilst being 'withdrawn'.
The fork and the barbs counter good penetration and would certainly make withdrawal difficult for a repeated attack.

Barbed spears were used in the Sudan against the British ...inflicting terrible wounds caused by their painful removal.

Thats why I considered the 'toxin' angle ....the barbs 'securing' it to the victim, allowing more time for the 'poison' to infect the wounded. Why a scabbard ? Well if poisoned.....better 'put away' until required....than accidently infecting yourself or your comrades whilst carrying it

Regards David