Most Vietnamese ‘Guom‘ are purely manufactured for ceremonial use, but there are also some examples made worth fighting, such as the example listed here.
With a thick well made blade in European influence, worn by an officer as status symbol, but very suitable for defense when needed.

The hilt:
Of French influenced form. The D-shaped guard and a Vietnamese interpretation of a lion head pommel made of silver. The hilt was made of ‘Akar Bahar’ ,better known as ‘sea root coral‘ and shows an elegant design of prunus blossom with an integrated thumb rest. The ferrule and pommel are made of thin sheet silver and are attached to the gilded brass knuckle bow.

The Blade:
In European manner, sharpened and slightly curved as a proper sabre. With a fuller in the center from the forte towards the false edged tip. The upper section of the blade has a single fuller on both sides running into two smaller fullers which end near the tip. The forte was originally covered with a thin brass ferrule which has been lost in time.

The scabbard:
Made of two sheets of hardwood, held together with three gilded brass fittings. The scabbard mouthpiece and center piece have a red copper alloy ring and a small hole to attach a rope or suspension-cord. The chape is curved with a rounded finial which has a copper center.

Conclusion:

A fine officers ‘guom’. Well executed silver and brass fittings and a rare type of hilt. Status symbol for an officer, but very functional. A good example of the quality which was used during the Nguyen Dynasty with an interesting cross-cultural influence.

Condition: Very good, minor movement on the guard due to the absence of the ferrule. Some ware on the gilded fittings consummate to age and use. One suspension ring on the locket is missing. Further a good well preserved blade.

Dimensions:
Hilt: 16cm
Blade length: 66.4cm
Blade spine thickness: 5mm
Scabbard: 71cm
Total length: 86cm