Well, that went well even though it wasn't without it's problems. But I've got it now. You might come to regret setting me loose to post pictures Ian.
Ok, now for some questions.
First I considered this a Pinuti even though it's not sharpened on the top edge but I may be way off.
How about the "browned" finish? Ever see that on other Indio/Asian pieces? Reminds me of something you would see on a old muzzleloader rifle.
The piece seems to have only been sharpened once "wrong"
A poor job but not too excessive. They didn't seem to understand it was chisel ground. They only hit both sides lightly.
You can't see the worm holes in the butt end of the hilt but you can see the white spots. They are quite stubborn and seem to permeate the handle. They won't scrape off and come back after an oiling. I have seen them before on other grips. I believe this grip and the others with spots to be Carabo horn.
Has anybody seen the spots on other materials?
Thanks,
moose