1500-Now Iron Finds

This type of crossbow bolt was used to kill or knock unconscious the game without damaging the fur or feathers. Remains of tin gilt to prevent corrosion are still visible.

15-17. century. Winged crossbow bolts were used for hunting as they caused maximum tissue damage. This type is found less often than the standard type featuring a square or rhombic cross section. The socket is made from a copper alloy. Since the copper kills the micro organisms responsible for decay the wood in the socket is still intact after several centuries.

The cleaned version shows how much the iron was attacked by corrosion – in contrast to the copper alloy socket.

In medieval times the common people were not allowed to carry swords. But they were allowed to carry knifes even very large ones. These so-called Peasant’s knifes were the all-purpose tool and weapon of the common people. Typically, they are 30-50 cm long though longer specimens have been found.

The curved form is unusual.

The heavy and well preserved knife is some 20”/52 cm long. The hand guard – the oblong structure – is still visible.

The item was hidden behind a large rock at the bank of a large river. From medieval times into the 19. century logs were floated downstream on that river..

The most common finds related to horses are horse shoes. Spurs are much less often found.. The most rare finds are bits and stirrups – maybe because the rider noticed the loss immediately.

These items were struck against a piece of flint stone to create some sparkles to light a fire.

Early modern horse shoes are common in forests and, especially, at former waterholes. The animals lost their irons in the muddy ground and without a metal detector there was not way to get them back. These finds help to trace old roads - and make nice “good luck” gifts for friends when cleaned.