Karambit

Karambit – Martial Arts Weapon

The Karambit (or Kerambit) is a Southeast Asian blade weapon that looks like a single claw. It is used in a number of martial arts styles associated with countries such as Indonesia, Malaysia and the Philippines. The karambit is used for close quarter combat.

This blade weapon is double edged with the outside curve of the blade used in slashing maneuvers and the the inside curve of the blade used in hooking/ripping type attacks. There are also thrusts that can be made with the point of the blade and punching strikes that can be made with the ring that covers the index finger.

The design of the blade was inspired by the savage claws of large cats. The ring on the handle of the blade was designed to prevent the user from dropping the weapon as well as adding an addition striking surface. The blade is also unique in its production coming in many shapes and sizes and lengths to best accommodate the feel for the user. Many folding karambits do not have a bladed edge on the outside curve of the blade, but a strike or slash from which would still hurt. For those that do not wish to carry a knife, there are also solid non-bladed impact karambits.

For other traditional martial arts weapons, please visit the main Martial Arts Weapons section.

Karambit Basics