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[Fixbayonets!]

I just picked up this riding crop at a local yard sale and thought it would make an interesting post. The riding crop is made of russet brown leather and has a rectangular metal plate riveted to the wrist strap. The plate is etched with the officer's name and service number CAPT. HENRY J. STANGER 0-479278. There is a strap that connects the main body of the crop to the handle and is held in place with a snap. When unsnapped the handle pulls away from the main body to reveal a hidden dagger. The blade is fluted and does not have an edge. It resembles the blade of a socket type bayonet and was designed as a thrusting/stabbing weapon. Hidden inside the main body is a tubular metal scabbard. I tried to research this officer but have not had any luck yet. Since this is a cavalry related item I would guess it dates anywhere from WWI - 1930's time period? I would imagine this private purchased item was carried more as a status symbol rather than for actual use on horseback.

Rob

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