KARAMBIT or LAWI AYAM

Sumatra, Minangkabau,  overall 16.5 cm, blade 10.5 cm, hilt 5 cm -0202D190-

   The Karambit (tiger claw), also called Lawi Ayam (cock's tail feather) is a short claw shaped dagger designed for an upward ripping movement into the bowels of the victim. The blade is strongly curved with the edge on the inside, but part of the back side is also sharp. The hilt usually has a hole at its end to place the index finger for a better grip. The sheath bends like the blade shape and is open at its top to allow the blade to be removed easily.

   This recently made specimen has an usual 90° curved steel blade and an intricately carved bone or antler sheath and hilt.

 

Back Up Next
Glossary of Terms  - Home - Contact us 
OLD BLADES - Malay World Edged Weapons.  Copyright © 2000 - 2007
Revised: 2007-03-13