Kris/Sundang just finished on ebay.

[Amuk Murugul]

Originally Posted by Pukka Bundook

..... but the "Ganjo iras" was very neatly decorated ...to my untrained eye.
The lovely blade decoration of these weapons has me intrigued, So I ask what I should look for, if & when I can afford one!

Hullo everybody,

Firstly, I don't believe the piece to be a Sundang as such. It looks more like a kris from somewhere like Mindanaw.
Secondly, I don't think that it's a "Ganjo iras", as I seem to detect a distinct separation between the blade and the base section.

As to what to look for, that is largely a PERSONAL CHOICE.
I'd tend to examine the blade first. Shaved or beaten into shape? Laminations or not? Damascene pattern or not. If it's got curves, what type (e.g. deep/shallow amplitude, scalloped).
Then I'd investigate the fret-work; what style, how distinct etc.
From there, I'd move to the handle. Scrutinising the fittings/collar, grip & pommel; what materials were used, what decorations etc.
Finally, I'd examine the scabbard.

Best,