Hi francantolin,
The "tunkou" is probably made of lead. The zigzag motive was allegedly common around the beginning of 20th century (and it continues till now). I think both were common at. beg. 20th. Are you sure the handle is made of wood _ Isnīt it horn ? Re. blade - I have also seen several nice blades made of mechanical damascuss (Turkish Ribbon) utilized with this "Zeybek Yathagans" (either nice old blade and crude rest of the wsord /I have one like this/ - or also something like "classy" Zeybeks, usually very long, even with silver fittings on the scabbard). Based on what Ariel writes - the blade is probably older than the rest of the sword, but, it does not look like damascus, really.
To find even "crude" T-handled yathagan with not damaged original scabbard is not easy.
Martin
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