Ethnographic Arms & Armour - View Single Post - An Unusual Moro Barong/Barung....any ideas??

CharlesS · 28th February 2010, 03:25 PM

This is a relatively late Moro barong, but very elegant and unique with its elongated blade, lime filled carving, and MOP inlays. The sword is 28 inches overall, with a 22 inch blade that is 2 inches at its widest.

The blade seems to be suffering from an identity crisis as it is very awkward to handle. It seems not be able to decide if it's a cleaver-like traditional barong/barung, or a stabber/slasher type, more like a N. Philippines talibon. The blade puts a lot of pressure on the hilt and the enclosed tang, making it very cumbersome to handle.

It shows it has certainly seen age, wear and tear, and handling, but I think it was exclusively a "looker".

Anybody think it may be an attempt to "marry" Moro and northern styles??

Thanks in advance for any ideas or input!

28th February 2010, 03:25 PM	#1
CharlesS Member Join Date: Dec 2004 Location: Greenville, NC Posts: 1,855	An Unusual Moro Barong/Barung....any ideas?? This is a relatively late Moro barong, but very elegant and unique with its elongated blade, lime filled carving, and MOP inlays. The sword is 28 inches overall, with a 22 inch blade that is 2 inches at its widest. The blade seems to be suffering from an identity crisis as it is very awkward to handle. It seems not be able to decide if it's a cleaver-like traditional barong/barung, or a stabber/slasher type, more like a N. Philippines talibon. The blade puts a lot of pressure on the hilt and the enclosed tang, making it very cumbersome to handle. It shows it has certainly seen age, wear and tear, and handling, but I think it was exclusively a "looker". Anybody think it may be an attempt to "marry" Moro and northern styles?? Thanks in advance for any ideas or input! Attached Images