Knives of South East Asia?

[westcoaster]

Hey there,

So my wife and two friends and I are planning a trip to South East Asia for this time next year, to Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, Malaysia, Singapore, and Indonesia.

We were originally going to many countries in Europe, so I had my wish list of local historical knives down pat.

Now with the change in location, I am starting to do research on what kind of cutlery I want to bring back.

Does anyone have any knowledge of the traditional knives in these countries?

Thanks!

 

[scotchleaf]

Google "ethnographic weapons forum" those guys know it all over at vikingsword dot com.

 

[Sep]

For Indonesia you want to bring back a Kris. All the good quality ones are made of damascus pattern steel, and they're really works of art.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kris
http://www.valiantco.com/antique/keris.html

For other stuff, check what Valiant sells, and buy cheaper from the source.
http://www.valiantco.com/

 

[bullosa]

If you get to this side of the pond (Sarawak, East Malaysia on Borneo Island), check out the various Duku (Iban Tribe Parang). They are definitely worthy collection and can be scored at various antique shops along Waterfront in Kuching. The Bajau Parangs in Sabah are also very interesting. In West Malaysia, be sure to check out the Malay Kris.

All the best.

 

[rtiger2]

Westcoaster...I'll be heading to Thailand, Laos and Cambodia in 3 weeks. I also plan to look for indigenous knives. I'll report back what I find there.