Have a look at this picture.
What is it?
Well most would probably say it's a walking stick which is true enough if you look at the style and the way it has been made.
The truth is, that this particular item is known as a "Tuckstick", and would have been used many moons ago by a Customs Officer when going about his duties and looking for contraband (smuggled or illicit goods).
The long blade with a sharp point would be pushed into a cotton bale, or into an oil drum looking for something hidden in the bale or a false bottom in the oil drum.
Interestingly these items were manufactured in the United Kingdom by Robert Mole, Birmingham in the 19th Century.
Have a look at this website which lists one of these items which is now sold.
Have a look at this website which lists one of these items which is now sold.
Another interesting website worth a look is:
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