During the Achaemenid Persian empire, employing foreign soldiers as mercenaries became commonplace. One of the “fringe” territories that became a strong asset to the Persian army was the Scythians. The Scythians were a nomadic tribe who were renowned for their ability to shoot arrows with deadly accuracy from horseback. Other than the bow and arrow which the Scythians were renowned for, they also carried a curved short-sword, known as an akinakes. We designed this knife after the akinakes with its curved blade and upturned drop point tip. The flared butt of the handle is also modified from the styling of the time. Made of 1095 and 15n20 steels. Scythian Handmade Damascus Steel Knife Specifications Overall Length: 9.75" Handle Length: 4.5" Blade Length: 5.25" Blade Material: Damascus Steel 1095/15n20 Blade thickness: 4mm Full Tang Rockwell Hardness: HRC 56-59 Damascus pattern: Twist Number of layers: 264 Grind: Secondary bevel Handle Material: Paka Wood Please note: This knife is a BLEM. Blemished inventory or a “blem” is a new, unused product that has a defect. These defects come from the manufacturer and do not affect the structural or functional integrity of the product. All products are laser engraved with a Forseti Steel logo to indicate they are a blemished product. The product image does not represent a blemished knife. It is a stock photo only. Each knife is handmade from natural materials, there will be some variation in color, Damascus pattern and overall look. ALL BLEM PRODUCT SALES ARE FINAL. NO REFUNDS, RETURNS OR EXCHANGES WILL BE ACCEPTED. Care Instructions 1095 steel is a high-carbon steel and will rust if not dried and oiled after use. Hand wash only with soap and hot water. Dry completely before oiling.