Indo Persian Pata questions

[Alan62]

I have found an Indo persian Pata and I am very intrigued by this weapon.

All of the information that I find on these says "Rare" Is this just a sales ploy?
Are they truly a rare weapon?

What would I look for to be sure it is not a reproduction?

I will post pictures later this afternoon but I would appreciate any input that you folks have on these.

Thanks

Edited