Yes, one encounters this repeatedly, either as the usual way somewhere for some time, or as an option. I'll just quickly mention mandau and daito. Most swords draw quite well from this angle, and as Rick says the draw translates very comfortably into an instant strike. Also, the primary ("true") edge of the sword is kept from rubbing/etc. during carry. I hadn't known Moro swords were/are worn like this; it may explain something about a large gunong I have. Now, why would a khoumiya be decorated on one side of the handle, and grooved only on the opposite side of the blade? (Left-handed handle on right handed dagger? Hmmm. Which way do khoumiya point when worn? How tolerant is Moorish culture of lefthandedness?)
|