Laring

Laring
Type	Sword
Place of origin	Philippines
Service history
Used by	Moro people
Specifications
Length	24–48 in (61–122 cm)
Blade type	Single edge, pronged tip
Hilt type	wood
Scabbard/sheath	wood

Laring is one of the traditional ethnic Moro weapons of Southern Philippines.^[1] It has a lightweight design for slashing and thrusting. It has a two pronged tip like a blade catcher that looks like a snake's tongue.^[2] The blade guard has a small round steel for firmer hold and mobility. The handle end has a unique hooked hilt grip design that serves as a counter weight for better handling and balance and to prevent the sword from slippage when pulling out when stuck in a target.

The open type scabbard is made of kalantas wood, a type of Philippine mahogany which allows for quick drawing. The length is about 24–48 in (61–122 cm).^[3][4]

References

1. Draeger, Donn F.; Smith, Robert W. (1980). Comprehensive Asian Fighting Arts. Kodansha International. p. 186. ISBN 978-0-87011-436-6. Retrieved 20 December 2021.
2. "Laring | BLADE CULTURE INTERNATIONAL". Bladecultureusa. Retrieved 20 December 2021.
3. Lawrence, Marc. "Filipino Weapons from A-Z" (PDF). Steven K. Dowrd. Retrieved 20 December 2021.
4. Lawrence, Mark. "Filipino Martial Arts Digest" (PDF). USADojo.com. Retrieved 20 December 2021.