A strange Afghan Shamshir I discovered, could this be a replica or authentic?

[Sakalord364]

Before I begin an authentic example of this type of Afghan shamshir exists, which belongs to our friend Gepi, with proper wootz blade and well made and proportioned handle. I will include photos for comparison- it also has wire wrapping on the handle and a scabbard.




I came across some images of what purports to be a late 19th century Afghan shamshir of this type. The blade with carved designs is unlike anything I have seen on period pieces, and most damning is the strangely thin bone handle, which has poor proportions. Proper shamshirs have thicker handles. The crossguard and pommel cap appear well made (and etched?).

So either this is a total replica made for the tourist market, or it is a Frankenstein sword made of modern and
antique components?

[Turkoman.khan]

Originally Posted by Sakalord364

Before I begin an authentic example of this type of Afghan shamshir exists, which belongs to our friend Gepi, with proper wootz blade and well made and proportioned handle. I will include photos for comparison- it also has wire wrapping on the handle and a scabbard.

I came across some images of what purports to be a late 19th century Afghan shamshir of this type. The blade with carved designs is unlike anything I have seen on period pieces, and most damning is the strangely thin bone handle, which has poor proportions. Proper shamshirs have thicker handles. The crossguard and pommel cap appear well made (and etched?).

So either this is a total replica made for the tourist market, or it is a Frankenstein sword made of modern and
antique components?

Hello Sakalord364

I believe that an original shamshir from Afghanistan from the late 19th century was used, which was "improved" with modern engraving.

[Battara]

I agree. That's what I was wondering.