A Strange Moro Twistcore Blade

[CharlesS]

This well worn Moro blade is naturally fascinating because of it nicely defined twist core, but it has some interesting odd characteristics as well. For instance, I cannot figure out the need for the clamp and pin between the blade and ganja. I would think it would be associated with the tang, but for what?

Also, why add a fuller to the bottom half of the blade??? To me it is just a distraction from the lovely twist core. Would a fuller really lighten the blade that much. It's hard to believe that removing just that much metal could have played a major factor in the kriss's balance, but I suppose not impossible.

Ideas and comments are welcomed.

Dimensions:
Overall length(no scabbard) 29.5in.
Blade length: 24.75in.
Width of the blade for the majority of its length: 1.5in.

[Battara]

What lovely twist core!

Sometimes a line is added to add strength, not by lessening of mass, but by the structure (believe it or not).

And regarding the pin, perhaps the pin is talismanic while yet functional. It could even be the metal to be incorporated is talismanic as well.

[kino]

I cannot figure out the need for the clamp and pin between the blade and ganja. I would think it would be associated with the tang, but for what?


I believe the kris was refitted with a new tang. Clamped and pinned to secure the new tang.
A very nice catch BTW. I like that dark jungayan pommel.

[CharlesS]

Kino,

Thanks for the input. Though Battara may very well be correct, I , like you, tend to lean in the direction of the clamp being tang related. The location of it is just too coincidental.

[Lee]

This is a very nice kris and it reminds me of the one I presented recently (http://www.vikingsword.com/vb/showthread.php?t=22828) in the details of the pattern-welding. I will be curious to learn the impressions of the membership about the origin and age of this kris.

[Rick]

I acquired one of these krisses some years ago; albeit without the apparent tang repair. I have searched for the post without success; it could have been a brother to Charles' blade.
I have trouble understanding why a tang on a sword like this could break accidentally being something obviously created by a very talented smith.

Possibly the damage was done by Colonial forces with an eye toward rendering it useless; but why not just confiscate the weapon instead. :confused:

[Sajen]

Hello Charles,

very nice catch! Congrats!! :) I think that we see a tang repair here, have a look to this old thread: http://www.vikingsword.com/vb/showthread.php?t=4743&highlight=moro+kris
This kris is now in my possession. Regarding the fuller I direct remember this one wich was recently sold by ebay: http://www.ebay.com/itm/Vintage-Knives-Short-Sword-Moro-Kris-Wood-Scabbard-Probably-1800-039-s-Etched-Blade-/311895064402?ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&nma=true&si=%252FOy9OwkUKh1kiPcTjDqFqtYDjcY%253D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc&_trksid=p2047675.l2557
Also the pommel is very similar to yours.

Best regards,
Detlef