Karambit
The Karambit also known as Kuku Malan and translated
as Tiger Claw because of the Karambits curved blade which resembles
a tiger claw can be traced from Sumatra to Malaysia and Java. The Karambit
has become the weapon of the traditional art of the Indonesian Archipelago
called Pencak Silat. Specifically designed as a close quarter self defense
weapon, the Karambit is used in conjunction with hand trapping techniques
and targets the Eyes, Joints, Achilles Tendon, Carotid Artery, Testicles,
Biceps, Forearm, and Wrist. While attacking the joints the Karambit with its
curved design can be inserted and turned to snap the bone. A favorite target
of ancient times was the Clavicle ( Collarbone ). Once snapped, it would render
the enemy's weapon arm useless
The Karambit is additionally quite difficult
to see in the hand due to its method of deployment and covering of the fingers.
Another major benefit of the Karambit that separates itself from other knives
is the fact that it is very difficult if not impossible to disarm because
of its forefinger grip design that places the finger inside
a ring which is part of the base of the Karambit. It is also unique from any
other blade because it can cut twice with a single arm stroke. In closing
the Karambit is a pretty remarkable weapon because it can not be easily seen,
it can not be easily disarmed, it can change ranges without body movement,
and it can deliver two cuts in a single motion which makes it one of the most
dangerous and lethal self defense weapons of the Archipelago.
