Hi David,
Despite the given resemblance in the quillon form and overall appearance of the hilt, I don't believe this sword has any connection to the Indian tulwar. It seems to be, as has been noted, a military regulation type sword of uncertain nationality, somewhat of forms used for non commissioned officers about mid 19th c. The brass hilts on these are in numerous variants as production companies industrialized and many outfitters catered to officers of specialized units and later military fraternal organizations.
Looks like a pretty solid piece, and as you note, well up to being used.
Its often puzzling to see swords of this type often in unusual stages of alteration, such as the removal of the knucklebow etc. I once had a Civil War period M1840 NCO sword and the braided brass wire grip had been removed and replaced with a most interesting bone or horn grip, certainly anything but regulation. But why do this to a sword after its period of use had ended? Never could figure it out.
Best regards,
Jim
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