Unusual Moro barung

Ian · 27th December 2025, 07:01 PM

I am posting this one for our archives because it has an unusual pommel and scabbard, which are difficult to place precisely.

It is a Moro barung of relatively recent manufacture judging from its appearance--perhaps late 20th C. The pommel is atypical in form, comprising a (roughly) horse hoof-shaped hilt with a series of vertical, deep cuts. The usual metal punto has been replaced by two woven rattan bands.

The scabbard comprises two pieces of flat wood tied together with rattan near the throat. The rest of the scabbard may be glued. There is no carving at the scabbard throat that might assist in identifying this barung with a particular Moro group. Overall, the hilt and scabbard are made of inexpensive materials, although the blade seems of reasonable finish.

My initial thoughts were that this barung came from Palawan or Zamboanga. However, on talking with a fellow forumite, Xasterix, it seems more likely that it comes from the Sama people who are from the Sulu archipelago.

It's an odd one. Your thoughts and comments are most welcome.

27th December 2025, 07:01 PM	#1
Ian Vikingsword Staff Join Date: Dec 2004 Location: The Aussie Bush Posts: 4,625	Unusual Moro barung I am posting this one for our archives because it has an unusual pommel and scabbard, which are difficult to place precisely. It is a Moro barung of relatively recent manufacture judging from its appearance--perhaps late 20th C. The pommel is atypical in form, comprising a (roughly) horse hoof-shaped hilt with a series of vertical, deep cuts. The usual metal punto has been replaced by two woven rattan bands. The scabbard comprises two pieces of flat wood tied together with rattan near the throat. The rest of the scabbard may be glued. There is no carving at the scabbard throat that might assist in identifying this barung with a particular Moro group. Overall, the hilt and scabbard are made of inexpensive materials, although the blade seems of reasonable finish. My initial thoughts were that this barung came from Palawan or Zamboanga. However, on talking with a fellow forumite, Xasterix, it seems more likely that it comes from the Sama people who are from the Sulu archipelago. It's an odd one. Your thoughts and comments are most welcome. Attached Images