What is a karambit knife?

THE karambit knife has been used for a very long time and continues to be very popular with the public. This bladed weapon, with a curved blade, has physical characteristics that make it so valuable. Here is a detailed history of this versatile tool, its characteristics and its uses. Follow!

What is a karambit knife?

Measuring at most between 10 and 20 cm, the karambit knife is equipped with a fixed or folding blade. This is generally made of steel and has a pronounced curvature that is reminiscent of a claw or a hook.

Depending on the model, the blade edge is smooth or serrated. The handle of the karambit knife adopts several materials:

• drink ;
• metal ;
• synthetic material.

Also, the end of the handle always has a ring. This allows the insertion of a finger in order to secure the grip of the knife and prevent it from slipping or falling.

Thanks to the ring, it is possible to make circular movements with the knife for greater efficiency in its use.

According to an Indonesian legend, the karambit knife's appearance and design are inspired by a tiger's claw. As a result, the device's unique curved blade easily allows:

• to tear;
• to decide;
• to hang.

What makes this instrument unique is the fanciful but oh so effective geometry of its blade. The grip of the knife is of exemplary ergonomics.

Whatever the environments and situations, the karambit offers convenience of use and a multiplicity of possibilities.

The origin of the karambit knife

The accessory gets its name from the Indonesian term " kerambit ". The word means "claw". It was in Indonesia that the accessory first saw the light of day.

In this region of the world, the karambit knife was used as an agricultural tool by peasants who used it to cut plants, slice fruit or sever roots.

Going into the forest and traversing the jungles are activities that often bring practitioners into conflict with wild animals. Also, crossing paths with attackers being a common occurrence in the region, the karambit knife has become a essential ally for defense and protection .

It is at 11th century that karambit knives appeared in ancient Indonesia. Very quickly, they conquered the rest of Southeast Asia due to a flourishing industrialization of the accessory.

The Philippines, Malaysia and Thailand quickly joined this elegant bladed weapon in local martial arts. Practitioners of the Indonesian martial art silat were also quick to adopt the karambit knife.

The enthusiasm of silat enthusiasts for karambit is not surprising, especially since this combat discipline uses different types of knives.

The Indonesian all-purpose bladed weapon has continued on its way to the United States in the early 20th century . It was introduced into use in the USA by Indonesian and Filipino martial arts enthusiasts.

Nowadays, we can afford karambits of great value and quality . These are handcrafted and fully customized. They are objects of art that enthusiasts of this tool collect.

Industrial production of this popular and versatile dagger is also found all over the world. The design, convenience and versatility of the knife are attractions that justify the growing interest in it.

Using the Karambit Knife

The karambit is a multifunctional tool . It can be used for:

• a fight;
• hunting;
• fishing;
• agriculture;
• some work, etc.

It only takes a little imagination to find other possible applications of the karambit knife which some people like to use as a screwdriver. The object is also suitable for scraping or drilling various materials.

When camping, it happens that you realize that you did not take everything you needed with you. Since a karambit knife is not easily forgotten due to its great utility, you can always use it to open a beer.

Emergencies don't give warning. You may find yourself in the need to break a window to get out of trouble. Here again, the karambit knife can be very helpful.

Soldiers, law enforcement officers, security guards and other night watchmen know how much this Indonesian dagger can be indispensable. In addition, the weapon is easy to carry because of its small size. It fits in the pocket or attaches to the belt through its holster.

How to use the karambit knife?

The first and most important thing is to know how to hold the karambit knife correctly . This is done mainly in two ways: the classic grip and the reverse grip.

In fashion standard grip , the knife handle is held so that the blade is facing upward and the ring is around the little finger. This position favors upward or sideways cuts.

There reverse grip , on the other hand, consists of holding the knife handle with the blade pointing downwards and the ring placed around the index finger. It is then possible to perform downward or circular cuts with the edge or tip of the blade.

To use the karambit knife effectively during fights or competitions, it is essential to practice mastering the basic techniques.

Sweeping for example, requires acquiring execution speed fast enough that the opponent does not see the blow coming. Hooking is also an effective way to destabilize your opponent when executed well.

As for locking and punching, these are also techniques that take some getting used to. handle the karambit knife with dexterity . To achieve this, it is necessary to train as frequently as possible with a partner or a dummy.

This is how we can give ourselves a chance to develop our speed, our coordination and, above all, our precision.

THE karambit knife is an instrument that everyone can enjoy. Whether you are a hunter, a handyman or looking for a practical tool for everyday use, you will always find satisfaction in resort to karambit .

Coming from a long Asian tradition, the object has been able to adapt to today's needs. It is appreciated for its stylish appearance and its host of functions.