A Moro Kampillan With a Massive, Rare Hilt and Unique Twistcore Blade

[CharlesS]

This lovely old Moro kampillan, with a rare and massive hilt and unique twistcore blade, nearly drove me to the edge of insanity trying to get it etched properly. As purchased, the pattern had an almost ghostly appearance, teasing me that it wanted to be seen, but nothing seemed to bring out the pattern. After numerous attempts at etching with a variety of different products, none successful, I finely looked to the wisdom of our resident specialist in metallurgy and blade forging, Philip Tom. Phil suggested I send it to him, and, indeed, he apparently had both the patience and the "magic" elixir that did the trick. He later told me it was the hardest etching job he may have ever had. The results show in the pics. Clearly, the forger was very talented. I think it is pure art in metal!