Luzon itak?

[Ian]

Hi Spunjer:

Hard to say if this one was made with a cut point, or simply lost its point over time and this is how it ended up. I would probably favor the latter because many of these matulis styles have tips that are bent or restraightened, and I've seen a couple where the tip has broken off.

I would consider this a short sword, in the manner of a European sidearm. Some might call it a long knife, and a blade length of 15-16 inches is sort of in between a long knife and short sword. I've read somewhere that a sword is usually considered to have a blade of 18 inches or longer, but I don't recall where I read that now.

This piece is from Luzon, perhaps Batangas.

Ian.

[Spunjer]

thanks ian. as always, i know i can depend on you when it comes to obscure filipino sandatas, lol. maybe not obscure, it's just that these types aren't as popular as the moro's, and to an extent, the visayan's. this one has good balance; not too heavy and not too light. it just feels right in my hand. i feel that this is more of a weapon than a utility type. what do you think?

[Ian]

Originally Posted by Spunjer

thanks ian. as always, i know i can depend on you when it comes to obscure filipino sandatas, lol. maybe not obscure, it's just that these types aren't as popular as the moro's, and to an extent, the visayan's. this one has good balance; not too heavy and not too light. it just feels right in my hand. i feel that this is more of a weapon than a utility type. what do you think?

Definitely a weapon, I believe. The narrow blade and point would have been excellent for stabbing, although it could probably deliver a decent slash. These are not really heavy enough for every day chopping chores, etc.

Ian.