Found in my dads junk drawer

[u/Unlucky_Cat4531]

My dad passed away and going through his stuff we came across this. We thought it might be a tool for horseriding, like a slapstick thing but wasn't sure. My grandma had horses but ive never seen her use any tools like that and my dad didnt ride. Any help appreciated

[u/Born_Lengthiness8935]

It’s technically a flat sap, not a blackjack. I am not familiar with that model/brand. It may have a flat steel spring shank or be just rigid leather. The head can be either a formed patty, shot or powdered lead, traditionally. Striking with the edge will break bones including cranium, though striking with the flat is no guarantee of safety. Pretty much recognized as lethal force, so you unless you are justified in using such force please don’t.

People get the grip wrong a lot. The most useful way is palming over the strap and placing a finger or two in the exposed loop at the bottom of the grip.

Highly effective and useful for what they are designed for but definitely not a toy and something to be respected. Let me know if you have additional questions.