Today I received the Katar I bought. I think I got what I paid for... seems like a simple "armory" type so I doubt wootz will suddenly appear under the rust... To my untrained eye it looks like it is one solid piece of metal and has a swollen armor-piercing tip. It fits my hand, though just a little bit tight. It's rusty, but I like the overall shape, and it seems strong. There is a curious hole at the base of the blade. Two fullers(?) can be seen on each side.
I'm wondering...
What can you guys tell me about this katar?
Is there anything remarkable about it?
Would it be a good idea to "restore it" or leave it rusty?
Perhaps if I decide it should be "restored" I'd ask a master to add koftgari after it's cleaned... making a prince out of a pauper... but that would be too hasty, I'd like to learn more about this guy first. It could possibly be a well-made fake antique or just a rusty old "commoner" piece, but I'm pretty excited nonetheless... one of the first "antiques" I've ever had.