My first barong!

[Shakethetrees]

Good evening!

More unpacking today- after yesterday's treasure, I should quit while I'm ahead!

I had a little free time and did a little light cleaning to this one. Massive, hollow ground blade with subtle beveled edge, about a quarter inch thick at the back closest to the silver ferrule. Sharp as a razor-during cleaning, polishing, and waxing, my towels were cut to ribbons, but, gladly, no blood was shed during this exercise.

Just one or two very small dings or chips to the wooden pommel, no real losses.

The scabbard throat has some old damage that was restored a while back, way before I owned it.

The halves were never pegged or glued together. They appear to be held together with the two bands.

I was told years ago that this was because in an emergency, a quick draw may inadvertently pull the scabbard from the wearers sash/belt. Not to worry, a good hard blow would easily cut through the rattan bands with minimal damage to the scabbard halves. True story? I don't know, but I'm sure someone out there might have something to add.

Since I'm just getting into the serious study of Moro weapons, does anyone know where this might have been made, or any other info about it?

This forum has awakened a new interest in these weapons. In the past I would buy them when they came up without knowing anything more than Moro origin.

After seeing the beauty and workmanship on so many pieces juxtaposed side by side, a new appreciation has developed.

With Moro barongs and kris blades, would the original owners have the blades polished, or would they be etched? I see a lot of forumites here showing some really beautiful blades, with patterns any pattern welded blade culture would be jealous of. But were they etched and visible during the period of use?

As tempting as it is, to me, if it was not done during the period of use, this is just an "improvement".

I really want to etch. I am really curious to see the pattern. But, I also want to do the "right" thing for the blade!