Another Mandara short sword

[Ibrahiim al Balooshi]

Originally Posted by Iain

Hi All,

Another little Mandara piece entered my collection this weekend. This poor guy has had a hard life. Waves in the short iron blade, nicks on the edge, its still being cleaned up, but I'll probably leave it with the dark patina, just do what I can with the active rust.

However it is interesting I think because it retains the leather grip and the leather over cloth scabbard. The blade decoration is also something I have not found before.

Despite the waves and slight twists (poor storage? rough life of use?) the blade is pretty flexible and springs back nicely.

The pommel is the little mushroom style that we've seen a few of now, the grip leather is just a simple wrap with a indented dot pattern.

The scabbard is not in great shape, but the leather is ooooold. Bits of rough cloth can be seen inside, haven't found any wood.

Overall length is 60cm.

My apologies for some of the reflections in the photos, the uneven surface of the blade made it a little tricky. And you'll have to forgive me for including yet another group photo of my small Mandara collection, I just really enjoy group shots.

Salaams Iain, Marvelous old blade! Can you walk us through your derust proceedure. I have an ancient axe that I am derusting and have tried vinegar and coke ... not making much progress... What will you use on the old blade please? Regards Ibrahiim al Balooshi.