See Chamberlain pl.163. The type used throughout the Caribbean with most specimens collected in Mexico. These were made in Mexico with both imported and Mexican made elements and in our experience, no two are ever identical! This example entirely North American made with 31 ¼” broad fullered curved blade, hand-hammered and slightly over heavy. Iron hilt with two side bars forged on. One joint failed in its working life and hammered back in place. Shaped wood grip with leather lacking and a little cord wrap remaining. This example is in “as found” condition as was encountered primarily in the 1970s including some antique shops in Mexico. Today, most have been “improved” by amateur restorers. Independence period (1810-21) and Santa Ana period, likely serving in the Mexican-American War These rare survivors were either cherished as heirlooms or turned into corn knives with their blades cut short.
