Parang latok

Parang, Sword From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

A parang latok (which is also known as latok, latok buku or parang pathi) is a sword from Borneo in Sarawak, Malaysia; where it is regarded as the national weapon of the Sarawakian Malay people and the Bidayuhs (Land Dayak people),[1] and as well as Kalimantan, Indonesia. It also functions as a machete.

TypeParang, Sword
Lengthapproximately 55 cm (22 in)
Quick facts Type, Place of origin ...
Parang latok
A Parang Latok, circa 1800-1899.
TypeParang, Sword
Place of originBorneo (Sarawak, Malaysia[1] and West Kalimantan, Indonesia)
Service history
Used byBornean Malay people, Dayak people (Bidayuh)[1]
Specifications
Lengthapproximately 55 cm (22 in)

Blade typesingle edged, one sided chisel grind
Hilt typewood
Scabbard/sheathwood
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Its used for both timber felling, agricultural activities and warfare is characterised by the noticeable bent at an obtuse angle from one-third of its length starting from the pommel.[2] This parang features a single-edge blade that is heavier and wider towards the point of the blade. The handle of the parang latok is made of wood without a guard and often tied securely with rattan at its grip. It is carried in a long, two-piece wooden sheath to properly hold the blade.[3]

In the past, the parang latok is also used for executing condemned criminals, and the decapitation is normally achieved with a single blow.[4] This parang is used two-handedly, with one hand holding the hilt and the other holding the blade's shoulder, enabling its user to strike downwards.

A smaller version of the parang latok is called the buko, while another variant of the parang latok is known as the sadap.[5]

See also

References

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