| Panabas | |
|---|---|
 A panabas | |
| Type | Sword |
| Place of origin | Philippines |
| Specifications | |
| Length | 24–48 in (61–122 cm) |
| Blade type | Single-edged, curved bladed, blunt or pointed tipped |
The panabas, also known as nawi, is a large, curved sword used by certain ethnic groups in the southern Philippines. It can range in size from 2 to 4 feet (61 to 122 cm) and can be held with one or both hands, delivering a deep, meat cleaver-like cut.[1] In its heyday, it was used as a combat weapon, as an execution tool, and as a display of power. Occasional use as an agricultural and butchering tool has also been noted.[2]
The sword's name is a shortening of the Filipino word "pang-tabas", which means "for chopping". As such, its etymological origins are the root word tabas ("to chop off") and the prefix pang ("used for").
The panabas is one of many bladed weapons portrayed in the "Weapons of Moroland" plaque that has become a common souvenir item and pop culture icon in the Philippines.
- ^ "Panabas". Sandata - Traditional Filipino Weapons. Traditional Filipino Weapons, LLC. Archived from the original on 2008-08-28. Retrieved 2008-07-30.
- ^ Greaves, Ian; Jose Albovias Jr; Federico Malibago. "SANDATA — THE EDGED WEAPONS OF THE PHILIPPINES". History of Steel in East Asia. Macau Museum of Art. Archived from the original on 2015-08-10. Retrieved 2008-07-30.