[Kim T.]

I'd not familiar with swords/daggers/sabres but was looking for guidance in identifying this one. It has a horn handle with hooves and acorns decoration. There is a hallmark of a knight's helmut and engraving on the blade of scroll work and drums. I've attached a few photos to offer better explanation. Thank you in advance for any information or direction.

[Jonathan Hopkins]

This is appears to be German hunting sword or knife, also called a hirschfanger. The knight's head mark was used by the Solingen maker Kirschbaum, and later incorporated into the Weyersberg Kirschbaum & Co. (WKC) logo of a king's head and a knight's head. Given that it only has the knight's head I would guess that this sword was made before the companies joined, so it could date 1834-1883. A photo of the entire sword would help us find a firmer date. I would speculate that it falls into the later 19th century--1880s-ish(?).

Jonathan

[Kim T.]

It's kind of long to hunt with - 23 inches from handle to tip - but I guess that depends on what you're hunting. Here is another photo that may offer a better description. Thanks very much for the quick advice!
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[Jonathan Hopkins]

It would not be used to bring game down, but to dress the carcass and/or deliver the coup de grace. I think it became traditional in Germany to wear these swords for the hunt. I would still guess it to be circa 1880.

Jonathan

[Kim T.]

Thank you very much. I certainly appreciate your expertise and direction.