UBB.threads Forums Edged Weapons Miscellaneous Dagger Forum 2nd Rail-good or bad

missing one scabbard band,not maker marked,16 inches long,light pitting to blade,celluloid handle,,,found on the internet,,Opinions Please

Just from the pictures you show it appears to have the requisite detail in the crossguard & pommel but better pictures couldn't hurt. Crossguard seems to have the die flaw, I think it might be OK. Is the source reputable?

Agreed. The "flaw" is present, although I do not believe that this is a requisite depending on the maker.
In any case, as Billy said, it appears OK to me as well.

Good hunting,
Johnny

Johnny,

I agree with you about the flaw's presence depending on maker but the last 2 Hörsters I saw had it too. Perhaps Eick sold 'em parts?

That would make sense.

In fact, to be honest, I don´t think there is a flaw at all.

Just because there are 3 feathers on the right wing (where it meets the wheel) and 2 on the left, is not really a "flaw". Just a design feature.
I think that someone seeing this, along with the broad structure of the left 2 feathers, and assumed that it was some mistake. I disagree.

With some lesser known but completely legit (IMO) makers of 2nd railway daggers we see 3 feathers on the left and right. I.E. "no flaw". But I think this is just a crossguard variation.

I think that neither is wrong. Both are right.

Unfortunately the myth of the "flaw" being the only acceptable version has scared collectors away from what I believe are perfectly good daggers without this "flaw".

The only thing (IMO) that you need to be careful of is that certain makers (such as Eick. and the other "textbook" manufacturers) should have the "flaw".

Anyway, this is just my 2 cents…

Good hunting,
Johnny

Looks like an unmarked Horster, but need better photos up close.