Billao

A billao (Somali: billaawe), also known as a belawa, is a horn-hilted Somali shortsword. It served most notably as a close-quarters weapon in the Dervish State, at the turn of the 20th century.

For the VDC in Nepal, see Belawa.
Billao
A billao shortsword.
TypeShortsword
Place of originHorn of Africa
Service history
Used bySomali
WarsDervish resistance (1896–1920)
Specifications
Mass9.0 oz
Length17" to 25"
Width2½" (blade)
Blade typeiron or steel; pointed, double-edged
Hilt typehorn
Scabbard/sheathsheepskin

Features

The dagger has a double-edged, leaf-shaped, asymmetrical blade and a three-pronged pommel. One-pronged pommels with the metal tang protruding out from the center of the hilt have been reported. Together, the grip and pommel are 6¾" in circumference. The billao's blade is made of iron or steel, and is 10½" long and 2½" wide.[1][2] Though other horn types are also used, the handle is typically made from the horn of buffalo.[3] In total, the dagger is 17¼" long.[1] The sheath is made of sheepskin, and the sword is worn on a belt around the waist.[3]

It is said to have originated in the Togdheer, Cayn and Sool regions of present day Somaliland

See also
  • List of swords

References
  1. Somali billao with sheath and belt
  2. Somali billao short sword
  3. Somali warrior
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