Parang Latok | |
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A Parang Latok as seen in the middle, is labelled as number 1 (in sheath) and 3 (unsheath).
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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 |
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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. 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.
In the past, the Parang Latok is also used for executing condemned criminals and the decapitation is normally achieved with a single blow. 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.