Fine Punal (Guong) Dagger , Mindanao , Philippines

The Punal, also known as Guong also known as belt kris is a dagger from Mindanao, south Philippines and the Visayn Islands. It used as utility knife as well as a weapon for self protection, carried by both man and women. The Punal is a short dagger, single or dual edged with a slightly slanted handle. It is carried in the back of the waist sash. it comes in various lengths but usually less than 14 inches (35 cm) and a variety of materials and qualities.

The Guong offered here is a high quality exemplar, with a wavy blade Possibly a Hippo tusk  hilt, silver collar with chased gold band. The cross guard is white metal.

Blade 6 1/2 inches (17cm). Total length  9 1/2 inches (24 cm). Very good condition. This Guong comes with a later made scabbard (Not shown)

For a similar dagger see: H. K. Krieger “The Collection of Primitive Weapons and Armor of the Philippines Islands  i the United States National Museum” 1926 Pl. 13 # 7