TUMBUK LADA

The Tumbuk Lada, translates literally to "pepper crusher", probably because of the shape of its hilt, is a traditional dagger said to be originating  from the Riau Archipelago, but also popular in the Malay Peninsula and Sumatra.

It has a slim, slightly recurved single edged blade, usually in plain iron and some occasions in pamor. The edge is on the concave side and curves at the tip towards the back. Some Tumbuk Lada have a ridge on a quarter of the back. The shape of the blade can be associated to the early Keris Sajen (type 4).

The sheath has an often finely carved round mouthpiece. The main part of the sheath is often encased in a finely carved metal sheet with intricate patterns. It is usually terminated by a shoe.

South Sumatra: blade ends in an octogonal socket