Balato for comments.

[Atlantia]

This is a bit of a mystery to me. Never had one before.
The hilt needs some repair and I'm beginning to think I've taken on more projects than I can cope with.
The hilt appears to have cracked straight up the middle. Presumably it's glued in place as it seems firm, although the crack is visible and filled with some kind of soft wax. Needs re-doing.

Anyway, I know nothing so please feel free to enlighten me.
Also, notice the carbon flaws in the laminations of the blade.

Thanks
Gene

[Sajen]

Hi Gene,

interesting piece, seems to have a very short blade. I would be careful with reglue the broken handle since the wood have a nice patina. How thick is the blade? Others with more knowledge will be able to tell you more about this sword.

Regards,

Detlef

[Atlantia]

Originally Posted by Sajen

Hi Gene,

interesting piece, seems to have a very short blade. I would be careful with reglue the broken handle since the wood have a nice patina. How thick is the blade? Others with more knowledge will be able to tell you more about this sword.

Regards,

Detlef

Hi Detlef,

Here's a picture of the blade spine.
Thanks
Gene

[Amuk Murugul]

Hullo everybody,

I would call it a Balatoe Sala.

Best,

[Sajen]

Originally Posted by Amuk Murugul

Hullo everybody,

I would call it a Balatoe Sala.

Best,

Hi Amuk,

please can you explain "sala"? I am not sure if I understand the word correct.

Regards,

Detlef

[Amuk Murugul]

Originally Posted by Sajen

Hi Amuk,

please can you explain "sala"? I am not sure if I understand the word correct.

Regards,

Detlef

Guten tag Detlef,

I am neither a Nias linguist nor a Nias smith.
The actual word 'sala' has many meanings depending on context etc. I don't know how/why 'sala' was bestowed on this blade.
All I know is that Balatoe Sala is a utility tool, 'golok' to the Soenda.
The other type is Balatoe Tologoe, used for ceremony/war.

Tschuss,