Summary
1. The origin of the Karambit knife
2. The characteristics of the Karambit knife
3. Between tradition and modernity
1. The origin of the Karambit knife
The Karambit knife was born in the 14th century in Asia, and more precisely in Indonesia and the Philippines. It was originally used for agricultural tasks, mainly by women to harvest rice. According to Indonesian legend and tradition, the Karambit's design is based on a tiger's claw.
It has become the emblem of Southeast Asian martial arts, along with eskrima, kuntao and silat. It is highly appreciated for its versatility and precision.
However, from the 1970s, the Karambit was modernized. It has indeed become widely popular throughout the world, mainly in Europe and America. This is particularly due to the spread of martial arts, with the modern culture of action films like Taken with Liam Neeson, The Punisher and The Raid. But also with video games such as Counter Strike, Splinter Cell or Call of Duty Black Ops 2.
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2. The characteristics of the Karambit knife
The particularity of the Karambit knife is its curved blade so that the tip points outwards forming a claw, the edge being located on the concave part although there are some with double-edged blades. The pommel generally forms a ring allowing a quick and sure grip and rotations around the index finger.
This unique silhouette makes it easy to handle, allowing you to combine defense movements during a fight. It can be in the form of a fixed or folding blade knife.
If, originally, the blade served only as an ancient utility tool, in the same vein as the modern "Swiss army knife", a good tool rises to meet new challenges, in addition to being a tactical knife or a survival knife, it is also an excellent EDC knife or an exceptional collector's item.
- Karambit with fixed or folding blade?
Both types of karambits are reliable and useful in various environments.
For outdoor use we recommend a folding Karambit knife. For example for hunting, fishing, hiking, camping. Indeed, thanks to its compact design and easy storage, for example in your pocket or in your bag, the folding karambit models provide additional security during transport.
We recommend Karambits knives with fixed blades for practicing martial arts or self-defense thanks to their rapid deployment. We also appreciate the mounting of the blade, always incorporated (partially or entirely) in the handle, which makes it an overall more resistant and durable object over time, delivered with a case you can transport it in complete safety.
3. Between tradition and modernity
At the time, the traditional Indonesian Karambit had an inclined curve that approached 90 degrees. Its handle was usually made of bone wood or stone. The blade worked with care and by hand.
Today, with new technology, the karambit is more modern, it is designed with durable materials. Its curve is less clear. The blade may have serrations, hooks or even multiple edges.
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4. Using the Karambit
The formidable weapon emblematic of Kali Eskrima , but also of different arts of Indonesia (Penchak silat) and Southeast Asia. The tool to have to obtain a good understanding of the body. Its curved blade offers many combinations and possibilities of use and it is extremely difficult to disarm.
- Reverse grip, most commonly used and most practical for defense and tactical combat. Place your index finger in the ring, place your thumb on the ring and let the other 3 fingers of your hand rest naturally on the handle.
- Normal socket, is the second most common, it will be practical in everyday life, with a rather utilitarian function. Position your little finger in the ring and your thumb on the front of the blade, finally place the other fingers on the handle
- The other sockets are sockets by the safety ring mainly used to change position by rotating the Karambit on its safety ring.
Here is the video demonstration by Doug Marcaida, expert in handling Karambit:
Whatever your position, this knife guarantees you a firm grip!
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See you soon,
Maissane M.
