Bras tack or rivet decorated trade knives and bowies (18th and 19th Century)

G

garethjclayton

Joined
Sep 17, 2011
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15
I am in the processes of pulling together a simple spear point (maybe coffin handled) 18th-19th century trade knife/bowie style knife (moderately specific goal that!).

I was thinking about embellishing the handle very simply by adding some small rivet design or domed brass tacks. I know I have seem this on the butt of rifles before and some examples in knife handles.

Does anyone have experience of this or examples they have made themselves? I am hoping to get some inspiration, I am sure I've seen examples that have concentric circles, or hearts, or crosses.

Any advice or photos etc gratefully received!

GJC

PS: I have seen much of the silver wire inlay, I think that's a little bit over my skill level at the moment!
 
Hi there, welcome to blade forums. I cheat when I do brass tack decoration on my leather work and use brass studs with the two tails for crimping. Brass tacks for wooden handles should be cut shorter so as not to crack the handle. I use small brass escutcheon tacks for my wood work.

Best regards

Robin

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Thanks for this! Yeah those photos look great! those concentric, or individual circles is what I'm getting at. I think I may utilise some copper nails I have, as the wood is likely to be bog oak and would contrast well. I am planning on cutting off the head and using the thinner detail.
If anyone else has suggestions keep em comning! I swear I remember seeing hearts too as a design.
 
I suppose this is exactly what I'm thinking of too:

(non BF dealer link removed, feel free to post pics that don't identify the dealer website)
 
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and this:

(non BF dealer link removed, feel free to post pics that don't identify the dealer website)
 
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Weeping heart design,mainly found on Iroquoian pieces.

Best regards

Robin
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