Though never described in detail, its usage seems to suggest that it is a short weapon, consisting of a thick, ridged fighting handle and a wide curved blade, sharpened on both sides. The blade is perhaps stubby and crescent shaped, like a modern Earth linoleum or grouting knife, though larger and sharper. Its hilt and pommel can be either fancy or plain and unadorned. The hook knife is often seen in duels and ritual combats, though in displays or sport it is kept sheathed and the sheath itself is coated with colored powder or pigment, so that any successful attack scored by the user can be easily detected for judging purposes. Very popular in the larger cities such as Ar. This weapon first appears in book #5, Assassin of Gor.