Damascus Zulu Assegai Spear

Product Description for Damascus Zulu Assegai Spear

Maker: Jean Wilke (click to see more by this maker)
Price: $2,600.00
Item num: 111609
** This is handmade and one-of-a-kind **
Blade length: 12.70 in.
Cutting edge length: 10.60 in.
Total length: 37.30 in.
Blade height (at heel): 2.23 in.
Blade thickness (near bolster): 0.21 in.
Blade thickness (at midpoint): 0.15 in.
Blade thickness (near tip): 0.04 in.
Item weight: 32.00 oz.
Shipment weight: 124.4 oz.
Blade: Damascus forged by Mastersmith Heather Harvey
Handle: Gemsbox horn
Sheath: Handmade display stand
Description: Jean Wilke is a young custom knifemaker from Pretoria, South Africa. His knives are exceptionally well designed and tested. His attention to detail is clearly evident in each of his creations. He is currently working with Mastersmiths Kevin and Heather Harvey, travelling back and forth every two weeks, alternating between working at Heavin Forge and home forge, Fire Goby Forge. It is very exciting to see a young maker with such tremendous talent. This special Assegai is a collaboration project between Jean Wilke and Mastersmith Heather Harvey.
The assegai is a traditional African weapon that has been used for hunting and warfare for centuries. It typically features a long wooden shaft with a sharp, iron or steel tip. Originating from the Zulu and other southern African cultures, the assegai is known for its lightweight design, making it highly effective for both throwing and thrusting in close combat. The spear played a significant role in various African societies, symbolizing strength, skill, and leadership, while also being a key tool for survival in the harsh environments of the continent.
The damascus spear tip is quite special. This was forged from the last damascus billet Mastersmith Heather Harvey made before her hand injury that ended her bladesmithing career. The damascus is forged from carbon steels to ensure excellent edge holding and chip resistance. The spear head is fully sharpened on both sides. Both Wilke's and Harvey's touchmark are engraved into the blade.
The shaft of the spear is one solid gemsbok horn. This huge horn was straightened under a low heat and brought to a high polish while retaining as much of the natural texture of the horn as possible. A 1923 East Africa coin is inlaid into the back of the handle using a hand domed copper pin.
A stand made by Jean is included to proudly display the spear.
The plaque on the stand is engraved:
African Zulu Assegai
Collaboration between
Heather Harvey (ABS Mastersmith) & Jean Wilke (Member KGSA)
Exceptional work throughout!


Availability: In stock. Usually ships in 1-2 business days