Persian Janbiya Knife

By Crusader1307

A traditional blade of Persia, The Ottoman Empire and other Regional Nations, - The Janbiya is a weapon used by Upper Class persons for self defense. The blades are double-edged, and feature a metal ridge which bisects the entirety of the blade. Although sharpened to a point, The Janbiya is more of a cutting and slashing weapon. The blade features a slender handle, often made of ivory, polished bone or other precious materials. Ranging from 8 to 14 inches in length, by tradition only men may carry them and they must be over 14 years old. Many Janbiyas were found by Crusaders among the bodies of dead Muslims in battle. The blade was often imparted with certain “spiritual powers” of protection in battle. They are still worn by many traditional Muslim males today.