Large Antique Leather Covered “Lead” Cosh or Blackjack

Here on offer is a fine example of an antique leather covered cosh or blackjack.

I think this is a late 19th century piece, being made from a flexible spring shaft with a lead metal head that is tightly encased in a quality stitched leather.

The slight flexibility and resilience of the handle give these cosh’s a whip-like action.

It is a long version and was probably used by the police force of that period.

The terms blackjack, cosh, and sap refer to any of several short, easily concealed club weapons consisting of a dense (often lead) weight attached to the end of a short shaft, used as a bludgeon.

My understanding is that "Blackjacks", have a mostly cylindrical striking head, and "saps" have a flat, usually oval-shaped head.

Blackjacks and saps were popular among law enforcement for a time due to their low profile, small size, and usability at very close range, such as when grappling with a suspect. Besides the head, they were also used on the elbows, wrists, shins, collarbone, and groin. In the early days of use, they were favoured for their ability to stun or knock a suspect unconscious with a blow to the head.

By the late 1960s head-strikes with impact weapons in general were strongly discouraged by most police departments and trainers because of the risk of death or permanent injury, as well as its questionable effectiveness.

It measures 16.75” (42.5cm) long and weighs 285g.

The cosh is in excellent condition with all the stitching still in place and just some light scuff marks to the leather finish.

Please see my pictures for the details of the condition, which complement this description.

Please see my TERMS OF BUSINESS regarding Deliver Charges and Insurance regarding additional insurance cover, should you require it, BEFORE the item is dispatched.

The responsibility lies with the customer to check with your Customs restrictions that this item can be imported into your country.

Code: 51015