DAY 1: Historic Arms & Armor: Revolutionary America
Sat, Jul 18, 2026 11:00AM EDT
Lot 569A
European Possibly German Heavy Stag-Handled Hunting Knife, 15th-17th Century
Bid Increments
| Price | Bid Increment |
|---|---|
| $0 | $25 |
| $100 | $50 |
| $500 | $50 |
| $1,000 | $100 |
| $2,000 | $250 |
| $5,000 | $500 |
| $10,000 | $1,000 |
| $20,000 | $2,500 |
| $50,000 | $5,000 |
This impressive European, possibly German, heavy hunting knife is a large stag-handled example in the Waidpraxe or hunting trousse tradition, likely dating to the 17th century, with the form possibly extending earlier into the 15th or 16th century. The knife measures approximately 14 1/2 inches overall with a substantial 9 1/2 inch blade. The blade displays a heavy gray patina with visible delamination, pitting, and age-consistent surface wear throughout, giving the piece a powerful early appearance. The grip is fitted with attractive stag horn scales, secured by four large pins on each side, creating the rugged and practical construction expected of a serious European hunting weapon.
Large stag-handled hunting knives were widely used throughout Europe from the 15th century through the early 20th century, serving as both practical field tools and prestigious sporting sidearms. In German-speaking regions, heavy hunting knives and Waidpraxe-type blades were carried by hunters, foresters, nobles, and estate personnel for use during the chase. These knives could be used for dispatching game, field dressing, cutting, utility work, and as part of a broader hunting trousse that might include smaller companion knives or tools. Their bold construction and stag grips reflect a long European hunting culture where utility, status, and tradition were closely intertwined.
This example presents as a rugged and authentic early hunting knife with tremendous old-world character. The broad patinated blade, heavy pitting, delamination, stag grip scales, large retaining pins, and simple functional form all contribute to its historic appeal. While more utilitarian than finely embellished court hunting pieces, it is exactly the type of honest field-used weapon that speaks to centuries of European hunting and outdoor life. A strong offering for collectors of German hunting weapons, European edged arms, Waidpraxe knives, trousse-related pieces, stag-handled blades, and early sporting arms.
Dimensions: Approximately 9 1/2 inch blade, 14 1/2 inches overall.
Condition
★ ★
Honest Wear or As Found - Standard Wear, medium to heavy use, or other wear/patina that adds to the item’s character and authenticity. Typically the state of most Antiques and Antiquities. Also refers to militaria that has seen extensive field wear with lots of character, often desired by collectors and referred to as “salty”. For Antiquities, ground or river finds may be labelled As Found which means they are Untouched, uncleaned, and in original condition from discovery. Any state of Amateur or Professional Restoration or Preservation will be noted.
Honest Wear or As Found - Standard Wear, medium to heavy use, or other wear/patina that adds to the item’s character and authenticity. Typically the state of most Antiques and Antiquities. Also refers to militaria that has seen extensive field wear with lots of character, often desired by collectors and referred to as “salty”. For Antiquities, ground or river finds may be labelled As Found which means they are Untouched, uncleaned, and in original condition from discovery. Any state of Amateur or Professional Restoration or Preservation will be noted.
Condition assessed using Treasure Trove Auctions’ proprietary grading scale. While we strive for accuracy, all ratings are subjective and based on our best evaluation as determined by a dedicated team of researchers, from expert appraisers to knowledgeable historians and veteran collectors. Full grading details can be found on our Authentication page for reference. For a more in-depth condition report or additional images, please contact us and we will be more than happy to oblige.
Available payment options
If you have not contacted Treasure Trove Auctions 512-221-2540 to arrange payment within 3 days of the time that invoice is sent, we will charge the credit card you used to register for the auction for the amount of your invoice.
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