Parang Knife

Parang

Parang is the Malay equivalent of the machete. The different of Parang with its well known sibling =machete is its distinct curve and shape. The purpose of the curve is to reduce vibration produce from tranfer of energy from cutting process and to achieve optimun weight. The lenght of parang is between 20-22 inches, more than that it would be called as parang panjang (long parang). Other form of Malay weapon that identical with parang is Golok.

Typical tropical rainforest vegetation in Malaysia is more woody than in other part of te world and the parang is therefore optimized for a stronger chopping action with a heavier blade and a "sweet spot" further forward of the handle, the blade is also beveled more obtusely to prevent it from binding in the cut. This is the same rationale and (in practical terms) the same design as the Indonesian golok and very similar to the Filipino bolo.

A parang blade is usually 30 centimetres (12 in) long and has a mass of no more than 0.75 kilograms (1.7 lb). The curved blade enables maximum effort to be applied when cutting timber, and the blade arrives before the knuckles, so giving them protection.

A parang has three different edges,

I-The front is very sharp and used for skinning,
II-The middle is wider and used for chopping
III- and the back end (near the handle) is very fine and used for carving.

Like the machete, the parang is frequently used in the jungle as well as being a tool for making housing, 

furniture, and survival tools.

outdoor parang