Hmong knife to share

[wildwolberine]

Sharing this Hmong knife from Lao. I have handled a few of these - this is the first with buffalo horn. I believe these are associated with the White Hmong group. The gaps in the horn are filled in with a hard paste of some sort. Simple scabbard made from softwood with a projection near the mouth for sash or belt carry. The black bands are electrical tape - this might be original, a lot of contemporary Hmong knives use synthetic materials.

I believe the text in pencil on the scabbard reads “Lao Xiong” or Lao Xiang”. Seems to be a common Hmong name. Perhaps a Forum member has traveled in Lao or has experience with Lao edged weapons? Knife is about 42cm overall with a 28cm blade.