Hi Tim, yes the solid hilt is brass. These swords have an amazing feel in the hand. I think they'd have no problem to do the job intended. One can imagine coupled with a swiftly running camel the results would be rather dramatic.
As for your sword... I have no idea what you paid for it, but I'm guessing if you ever get bored with it I can be persuaded take it off your hands for the same or more.
It's really an outstanding piece. As for a reworked European blade... I think there is a tendency to under estimate the amount forging work done natively. There is a tendency when one finds a good quality blade to automatically assign a European attribution - perhaps sometimes a bit hastily. Personally I prefer the native made stuff. More cohesive in my tastes.
Couple of questions about your sword... Any idea from the balance and weight what lies under the leather on the hilt? Metal pommel and grip? I've already encountered a couple of takouba with wood cores for the grips. I'm trying to figure out if it means anything in terms of pinning down tribal and ethnic group.