Kelantanese klewang
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| Kelantanese Klewang | |
|---|---|
 A Kelantanese klewang with an elaborative decoration on the spine of the blade, 1940s. | |
| Type | Klewang sword |
| Place of origin |  Malaysia (Kelantan) |
| Service history | |
| Used by | Kelantanese Malay people |
| Specifications | |
| Length | Approximately 16 inch (40.64 cm) to 20 inch (50.8 cm) blade and 17cm handle |
| Blade type | Single edge |
| Hilt type | Water buffalo horn or wood |
| Scabbard/sheath | No scabbard |
The Kelantanese klewang or Kelantanese kelewang (Kelewang Kelantan or Klewang Kelantan in Malay language or Kelewe Kelate in Kelantanese Malay) is a style of klewang originating from Kelantan, Malaysia[1] but is also popular in other northern Malaysia Peninsula states such as Kedah and Perlis.[2]
The Kelantanese klewang is believed to be as old as the parang, became a distinct weapon by the late 18th century.[3] In the 19th century, Kelantanese men would wear the Kelantantese klewang behind their sarong with the blade protruding out.[4]
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The weapon features a single edged, curved belly blade, with its tapered tip clipped and forming decorative loop or spike at the spine of the blade. The handle is carved to the shape of a horse hoof or a Makara (Hindu mythology).[4]
The Kelantanese klewang is used in martial arts[3] but it is also often associated with violent gang crimes.[5] In 2012, about a dozen of gang members from 3 different gangs in Kelantan were arrested for 10 cases of assault, armed-robbery and confiscation of weapons including the kelewang.[5]
There are variety of Kelantanese klewangs such as Kelewang Pucuk Berkait,[6] Kelewang Jambul[7] and so on.
This weapon was featured in the American bladesmithing competition, Forged in Fire (TV series)'s season 5 episode 15.[8]
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