Hi,

The hilt components are generally referred to as being "pot metal". Pot metal is a general term for an alloy of inexpensive, low-melting point metals used to make fast, inexpensive castings. The primary component of pot metal is zinc, but other metals are added in an effort to strengthen the material, improve the flow of the molten metal & reduce cost.

Quite what the mix was I have no idea & it may have varied depending on what was available.

War is when your government tells you who the enemy is.
Revolution is when you figure it out for yourself.