Katar, Mysore, India, 1790 (c)

Katar with blade with central rib and reinforced point, reputedly made in Mysore, India, 1790 (c).

Katars are 'push daggers' from the Indian sub-continent. They are usually formed of a triangular blade with an 'H'-shaped hilt. The weapon is designed to pierce using a punching motion rather than to stab. These traditional weapons were popular trophies or souvenirs for British units and soldiers returning home.