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WABUKAN Arsenal · Swords · Southeast Asia

Kampilan

The large single-edged sword of the southern Philippines, widening towards the tip, with a forked pommel; linked by tradition to Lapulapu.

Also known as

kampilan sword

Origin and history

The kampilan is the large single-edged sword of the southern Philippines, especially of the Maranao, Maguindanao and Iranun peoples. Filipino tradition associates it with Lapulapu, the chief of Mactan who defeated Ferdinand Magellan’s force in 1521.

Martial arts that use it

Arnis · Eskrima · Kali

Construction

A long blade of about 90–100 cm that widens towards the tip, sometimes with a small spike on the back, a forked pommel and a cross-guard; it is often used with both hands and a wooden shield (kalasag).

Basic techniques

Training

Beginners learn grip, posture and footwork first, then cutting and thrusting lines in solo forms or drills, usually with a wooden or blunt trainer. Paired drills with a partner come next, at slow speed, before any free sparring with protective gear.

Safety

Train with wooden, blunt or club-approved trainers; keep live blades for experienced practitioners under supervision. Check the blade, handle and fittings before every session, keep a clear space of at least two weapon lengths and never cut towards people.

Legality (general information)

Swords, knives and other edged weapons are regulated very differently from country to country (and sometimes from region to region): owning one at home is often allowed, while carrying it in public, buying it under a certain age or importing it may be restricted or banned. Practitioners usually transport them cased, out of reach and straight between home and dojo. This is general information, not legal advice: check the law where you live.

Did you know?

The forked pommel is often described as an open crocodile or dragon mouth; hair or fibre tufts were sometimes attached to it.

More weapons

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Sources

Original WABUKAN text, written from these cross-checked sources (facts, not sentences).

  1. Wikipedia — Kampilan
  2. Wikipedia — Lapu-Lapu