nimcha with "extended" ricasso

Jim McDougall · 6th February 2009, 11:26 PM

This is probably one of the most unusual Moroccan sa'if ('nimchas') I have seen, in its very workmanlike appearance. That is, it is almost a nimcha produced industrially, by the numbers. The entire piece is rather undimensional, and appears to have been produced in a munitions sense. The guard being welded to the blade would make the sword quite unservicable, that is unable to undergo repairs or alterations. These swords were typically hilted locally and indeed using European blades. There is a possibility of this being a theatrical piece I would imagine, as it would present the appearance of a Moroccan sa'if, though without the unmistakeable craftsmanship usually seen in these hilts.

The long ricasso, and square blocked channels or fullers are atypical of any blades I have ever seen, they usually are rounded as the tool is withdrawn from the blade.

A most interesting anomaly, and look forward to hearing if anyone else has seen anything like this.

All best regards,
Jim

6th February 2009, 11:26 PM	#6
Jim McDougall Arms Historian Join Date: Dec 2004 Location: Route 66 Posts: 10,295	This is probably one of the most unusual Moroccan sa'if ('nimchas') I have seen, in its very workmanlike appearance. That is, it is almost a nimcha produced industrially, by the numbers. The entire piece is rather undimensional, and appears to have been produced in a munitions sense. The guard being welded to the blade would make the sword quite unservicable, that is unable to undergo repairs or alterations. These swords were typically hilted locally and indeed using European blades. There is a possibility of this being a theatrical piece I would imagine, as it would present the appearance of a Moroccan sa'if, though without the unmistakeable craftsmanship usually seen in these hilts. The long ricasso, and square blocked channels or fullers are atypical of any blades I have ever seen, they usually are rounded as the tool is withdrawn from the blade. A most interesting anomaly, and look forward to hearing if anyone else has seen anything like this. All best regards, Jim