A Pata or sword gauntlet is a bladed weapon from Northern India much like a short sword, except that the blade is integrated in a gauntlet. In use, it could be employed similar to a katar, though the additional support from being laid along the forearm may have allowed them to be used as a slashing weapon too. It was considered to be a highly effective weapon for Infantrymen against heavily armoured cavalry. It gradually evolved from 10 inch long Katar to sometimes as long as 44 inch long, double edged weapon. Shivaji was believed to be the best user of this weapon during his time. One of his Generals Tanaji Malusare was used to have it used with both the hands during the Battle of Sinhagad before one of his hands was cut off and he was killed. Emperor Akbar also used this weapon during the siege of Gujarat. The Rajput warriors used this weapon very effectively during Mughal Period. They also developed variations of Pata with matchlock pistols adjoining the handle too. The best collection of this weapon can be seen at the Durbar Hall, Shiva Nivas Palace, at Udaipur, Rajasthan. The erstwhile rulers – the Royal Family of Mewar owns the collection. It is displayed beautifully along with many other Medieval Weapons. The pictures that you see here are from the editor’s personal collection of antique weapons. This pata is from Rajasthan, made of Damascus steel and from early half of 17th century.

See also

• Lantern shield

Knives | Indian mêlée weapons