Jens, I think you've hit on the source of some of my confusion relating to Henk's sword.  The illustration from Stone's posted by Henk gives me some consolation:  most of those straight-bladed, khanda-hilted swords make a bit more sense to me, as they appear to be more cut and thrust than Henk's example.  I would also note that the downward tilt of the pommel would permit better wrist extension than a standard tulwar hilt.  Better, but still not something I'd relish.