A basic Takouba with an odd point
 

This arrived yesterday; I picked it up because it was inexpensive and the blade was a little different from the average. I believe it to be of local production, a simple, flat-sided blade with a wide, shallow fuller running the full length on both sides. No maker's marks of any kind. I believe the blade must have been reshaped at some point in its life.

http://pic20.picturetrail.com/VOL151.../234011310.jpg

The fuller is heavily pitted but otherwise free of marks, while both edges display long, deep scratch marks from shaping. What's odd is that the blade shoulders down sharply for the last five inches, ending in the typical narrow, rounded point of the breed.

So, has anyone seen a similar profile on one of these, or have any suggestions as to why the smith would have chosen to shape the blade this way? It's the correct length, width, etc., for the scabbard, so I don't believe it was a case of re-pointing after a break. :confused:

So, has anyone seen a similar profile on one of these, or have any suggestions as to why the smith would have chosen to shape the blade this way? It's the correct length, width, etc., for the scabbard, so I don't believe it was a case of re-pointing after a break. :confused:[/QUOTE]


Fenris Wolf

The taper at the point is original to the sword. I have one with a similar point.

Lew

I haven't seen this blade shape used on a Takouba. The blade looks to be reasonably thick (usually thin and springy) is that the case ? The pyramidal pommel looks very neat and tight. Is the sword well balanced....I am wondering whether the 'weight-loss' at the tip end was done to ensure this. Mind you I would have thought the stabbing ability would be improved with the narrower profile :confused: Certainly doesn't look 'touristy'....a nice addition, I feel.