This is the classic RN dirk of the early Napoleonic Wars, widely used until 1810 or so. The grip is one-piece ribbed whalebone, rather than ivory. These were carried by midshipmen as well as commissioned officers.
The 16" blade is diamond shaped in cross section and has had quite a hard life due to heavy grindstone use! The hilt mounts have suffered substantial abuse from over cleaning. The guard was loose when I bought this, so I have tightened it with some steel shim. Judging by the state of the tang button the blade has its original seating in the hilt. In spite of all these faults, these fighting dirks are increasingly hard to find.
If you want to comment on this item—re quality, age, etc—please email me.
[Edged Weapons : Dirks : British : 18th Century]
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