My first dharb for comment

[Andrew]

Originally Posted by Ian

Going back to my own examples of N. Thai/Lao dharb, I found a similar example where the rattan had been wrapped (rather than plaited in rings) around the hilt. So I think this is an example of N. Thai or nearby Lao work.

I agree, Ian. This rattan treatment is reminiscent of the scabbards on some "Montagnard" swords:

I don't think this sword is a Cochin saber. The protruding piece of wood at the end of the hilt does resemble that style, but similar features can be found on Thai and Burmese examples also, especially when a terminal ferrule has been lost.

I don't think this is a Cochin saber, either. However, the distal end of the handle does remind me of one quite strongly. Enough so that I'm not entirely willing to abandon thoughts of Vietnamese influence.

I don't think the end of the handle is missing as we so often see. I believe this is an intentional feature, evidenced by the wrapped cord ferrules flanking the grip.