Kindjal.
 

There is not really a lot to say about this one yet. I was able to buy it at a recent Antique Arms Fair at a decent price, and I am happy with it. It is a big piece, with plain mounts of natural horn and plain iron. The blade is a nice shape with a long point and signs of sharpening during it's working life. Surface rust, but little or no pitting..... I am looking forward to what is revealed as I clean it, wootz, pattern welded or shear steel, or even plain.
I was really pleased to get this one, I had a decent plain Kindjal that went missing from storage some years ago, so it is nice to get a replacement. I like the plain solid items, they always feel like they are more "authentic" which is daft I know, and if I had the money I would leap at a pretty item, but I think most of you know what I mean.... Comments welcome.... Ps, it is laid next to a yardstick marked in inches, so is 62.5 cm total length (for those unfamiliar with Imperial).

Here we are after the first lot of cleaning. Next up a widow polish and an etch to see if it worth taking it much further.

Better photo's, without the glare.

Has anyone ever stripped one of these down for a full clean/conservation. I am wondering whether to do this, or if I risk damaging the piece.

Nice kindjal David! I personally do not see any benefit to disassembling the hilt, only downsides.

Definitely would not recommend disassembling it.

I think you alredy did a fine job and if it were mine, I would keep it like this.

Agree! :)

Thanks. I will keep it as it is, and just oil it as needed.