Hand-Forged Celtic Knife

Hand-Forged Celtic Knife – Practical Replica for Historical Everyday Life

How You Can Use This Celtic Knife

This versatile Celtic knife is more than just a piece of history; it's a functional tool ready for your adventures and projects:

• Reenactment and LARP: The perfect accessory for your Celtic, Germanic, or Viking persona. Its authentic look will lend credibility to your role.
• Living History and Crafts: An indispensable aid for food preparation, working with wood or leather, or other period-appropriate materials at historical encampments.
• Bushcraft and Outdoor Activities: Its sturdy construction and sharp blade make it a reliable companion for outdoor pursuits with a historical touch.
• Collecting: A unique hand-forged piece that will enrich any collection of historical knives and artifacts.
• Everyday Helper: For those who appreciate traditional craftsmanship and a quality tool with character.

The roughly forged surface of the blade, with visible hammer marks, gives the knife a unique, raw appearance.

Historical Use of the Knife in the Celtic Period

In Celtic society, from roughly the Hallstatt to the La Tène period, the knife was an absolutely common and indispensable personal item. It was not primarily seen as a weapon, but rather as a universal tool for a wide range of daily activities. Celts used similar knives for preparing meals, cutting meat, fruit, and vegetables. They served for working wood, making small objects, and cutting hides, fabrics, and ropes. Both men and women carried them, often hung from a belt to be always at hand. The metal ring at the end of the handle could have been used for hanging the knife or for threading a lanyard for a better grip.

Interesting Fact from Celtic History: Smithing Mastery

Did you know that the Celts were renowned masters of smithing and metallurgy? Their ability to efficiently mine and process iron ore allowed them to produce not only excellent weapons (like the famous Celtic swords) but also a wide range of durable tools for crafts and agriculture. Knives like this one were among the most widespread products of Celtic blacksmiths and testify to their high level of craftsmanship. The quality of their products was even valued in ancient Rome.

Technical Specifications of the Knife

• Overall Length: Approx. 232 mm (approx. 9.13 inches)
• Blade Length: Approx. 108 mm (approx. 4.25 inches)
• Blade Thickness at Widest Point of Spine: Approx. 4.5 mm (approx. 0.18 inches)
• Blade Material: Hand-forged spring steel (ČSN 14260 standard)
• Blade Hardness: Hardened to approx. 54 HRC
• Handle: Genuine leather wrapping
• Ring at Handle End: Forged, outer diameter approx. 32 mm (approx. 1.26 inches)
• Edge: Very sharp!
• Manufacture: Hand-forged in Bohemia (Czech Republic)

Due to the handmade nature, each piece may vary slightly in the specified parameters and appearance, making it a true original.

Caring for Your New Celtic Knife

To ensure your hand-forged Celtic knife serves you faithfully for a long time and retains its original beauty and functionality, give it a little care:

• Blade: As the blade is made of carbon spring steel (it is not stainless), it is susceptible to surface corrosion. After each use, thoroughly clean the knife of dirt and moisture and dry it well. Then, lightly coat the blade with a conservation oil (e.g., mineral oil for tools, WD-40, Ballistol, or even a thin layer of edible oil if you primarily use the knife for food).
• Handle: Keep the leather-wrapped handle dry. If it becomes heavily soiled, you can wipe it with a damp cloth and allow it to air dry. From time to time, you can treat it with a leather care product (wax, balm) to keep it supple.
• Storage: Always store the knife in a dry environment. If you have a sheath for it, ensure it is also dry before storing the knife in it for an extended period.

Safe Usage Guidelines

Remember that this Celtic knife is not a toy, but a sharp and functional tool. Exercise increased caution when handling it:

• Sharpness: The blade is delivered very sharp. Risk of cuts! Familiarize yourself with the knife carefully.
• Handling: When working with the knife, always direct the cutting edge away from yourself and others. Never wave the knife around or use it for mock fighting.
• Handing Over: If you are passing the knife to someone, do so handle first, with the cutting edge turned away from the person receiving it.
• Storage Out of Reach of Children: Keep the knife in a safe place, out of the reach of children.
• Intended Use: Use the knife only for the purposes for which it is designed (cutting, slicing). Do not use it as a pry bar, screwdriver, or hammer.

Authenticity and Historical Original

This hand-forged knife is inspired by typical utility knives from the Celtic period, particularly the La Tène era. The simple, functional design with a ring at the end of the handle and the characteristic blade shape correspond to many archaeological finds throughout Europe. The use of traditional smithing techniques and natural materials further underscores its historical authenticity.