Just think, Sid, in another time a long time ago, that was somebodys pride and joy. It may have even kept him alive. These large navaja's were usally carried stuck in a sash around the waist, so the long length was of no hiderence. But it was fast and easy to lay your hand on it. Through the 1700's and 1800's, and even into the early 20th century, they were a daily carry item. There were no doubt some serious disputes settled with them in a final way.