My friend just gave this to me . He claims its a few hundred years old but im real skeptical. What do you guys think? Either way it was free so i could always scrap it haha .Any input is appreciated thanks!!
Heh, that is one goofy looking sword! Definitely a recently made item (probably post-1970), and created using junky soft iron which has no business being turned into blades.
would certainly make a great prop piece or man cave decor, hang onto it either way. But an easy way to tell if it is modern is clean up the blade(gently, just enough to get a clear view of the metal). Then point it up towards the light, you should see what looks like long straight lines in the steel. This would be modern, and old, like that period and style anway swords were hammered.
Doubt it was made in metal smith class, the etching is quite ornate and well executed. I would say it was probably made in India, perhaps quite long ago, as they have been selling them to tourists for at least 150 years.
Probably made as a tourist - decorative item - but if the steel is springy - rather than bendy it would have been made of useable stuff. Indians made many dozens of different sword patterns, their taste is quite different to western choices.
Treat the rust, hang it on the wall and remember your generous friend when you look at it. Nuggy