Parang Latok

Parang Latok

A Parang Latok as seen in the middle, is labelled as number 1 (in sheath) and 3 (unsheath).
Type Parang, Sword
Place of origin Kalimantan, Indonesia and Sarawak, Malaysia
Service history
Used by Bornean Malay people, Dayak people
Specifications
Length approximately 55 cm
Blade type single edged, one sided chisel grind
Hilt type wood
Scabbard/sheath wood

Parang Latok (which is also known as Latok, Latok Buku or Parang Pathi) is a sword from Kalimantan, Indonesia that also function as a machete.

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.[1] 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.[2]

In the past, the Parang Latok is also used for executing condemned criminals and the decapitation is normally achieved with a single blow.[3] 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.[4]

See also

References

  1. ↑ H. S. Cowper (2012). The Art of Attack and the Development of Weapons: from the Earliest Times to the Age of Gunpowder. Andrews UK Limited. ISBN 1-7815-0359-1.
  2. ↑ George Cameron Stone (1999). Glossary of the Construction, Decoration and Use of Arms and Armor in All Countries and in All Times. Courier Corporation. ISBN 0-4864-0726-8.
  3. ↑ Frederick Boyle (1865). Adventures among the Dyaks of Borneo. Hurst and Blackett. OCLC 475350124.
  4. ↑ Albert G Van Zonneveld (2002). Traditional Weapons of the Indonesian Archipelago. Koninklyk Instituut Voor Taal Land. ISBN 9-0545-0004-2.
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