Balaraw

[tanaruz]

Hi,

Sharing this newly commissioned balaraw/balarao winged dagger. I had this made for my Christmas present to my father.

I've added semi-precious stones on the scabbard (narra wood): black onyx, tiger's eye and cat's eye (for protection, etc).

16.5-inches: over-all length
8-inches: blade

Note: the triple 'TTT' mark on the blade. The bladesmith informed me that having a triple 'TTT" mark is indicative that the balaraw is of the highest quality , hence, collector's piece. (lesser number of T marks is indicative as not of the highest quality). Letter 'T' is the family name of the bladesmith.

Now, the question is: what is the function of the exposed 'tang' ?

Enjoy,

Yves

[mariusgmioc]

Very beautiful piece! Thank you for sharing!

I can only guess that the exposed and rather pointy tang can be used to deliver some punching blows with reverse grip. :confused:

[tanaruz]

Vielen dank herr.


regards from Manila.

Yves

[xasterix]

What you have is a custom modern reproduction of the balaraw.

The traditional balaraw as viewed via antique samples, has long been extinct, even among the Mandaya ethnolinguistic group, to whom this weapon is attributed to.

I'm guessing this build came from "Itak Mindoro." They must have copied the build via the Internet. After all, Mindoro is a long way from Davao ;)

[JeffS]

That is a very thoughtful gift, I'm sure he will be thrilled.