Borwick Fleam knife

[kxxr]

Whatever this is, it has seen a lot of use. Borwick is stamped on one of the blades. I see a similar "19th Century Folding Pocket Knife/Tool" listed on ebay right now. It has a wood handle instead of brass and is otherwise pretty similar. What are the little triangular thingies for? Anybody know what it is for?

I did a little more looking and I think I have my answer. It is a fleam knife, used by veterinarians for bloodletting. Worthpoint dates it 1791 - 1860. I'd sure like to know more if anyone has any other idea. I didn't know what it was when I posted it here, but was surprised to find information about it easily. So, I guess it isn't a whatsit anymore, it's a fleam knife doncha know.

[jimwrench]

 Its a Flem. used by vets to lance boil or open an infection. Shown on page 181 of Sellens Dictionary of American Hand Tools.

[Branson]

Fleams were most popular for that popular medical practice of bleeding.  The different sized triangles would cut to different depths.  They were placed in the appropriate spot, and then tapped in, the depth halted by shaft.  Now you need to find a bleeding bowl and you can start your own practice!

Does yours only have two blades?  I've seen them with as many as four.  They were in use throughout the Civil War period, and not by veterinaries, but by medical doctors.  They tend to be pricey, like most antique medical equipment.

[scottg]

Everyone is right!
Fleams might still be used by some vets, but certainly were used for a couple centuries at least.
They were used on people for a very long time too.
Not just doctors, but barbers were even more popular for bleeding.
You know the barber pole with the red stripes??  Barber shops had a dirt floor room in back and bleeding happened in there.
You grab the pole with both hands at the top and the barber lays the fleam over the vein (vertically please) and whacks it with a blood stick. A short light club.
Yes, 2, 3 and 4 blades were made.  Brass, bone, horn and wood handles were all popular.
   Mine ( I only have one) is a Wm Rodgers, Sheffield, horn handles, 3 blades.
   yours Scott   

[rudeawakening55]

Thanks for posting, as bought on of these at an auction several weeks ago. Had no idea at all what it was. This was a big help to me..............Thanks again for the fleam knife post. Hopefully soon I will figure out how to post wiht Pictures........as have a verity of items that I need help figuring out what they are.

[rusty]

There are lots of variations , more pictures here: http://medicalantiques.com/medical/Scarifications_and_Bleeder_Medical_Antiques.htm