Klewang Sumatra

[KuKulzA28]

Wow thats a really nice example!


I'm wondering, how can these very similar styles of klewang be from both Sumatra AND Lombok? What ethnic group are they from? Why are their styles sooo similar? I'm not an expert AT ALL on Indonesian weapons, so I'm somewhat lost...

[Ron Anderson]

They are from different island cultures, but there are similarities among all the islands.

The Lombok Islanders are known as Sassak people. Lombok is right next to Bali.

They tend to have quite an evolved artistic style compared to other places in the region. Generally, their artefacts are quite distinct and interesting. But their klewangs looks just like other klewangs. However, as I said, I think they tend be made of better materials, and the workmanship seems to be better.

[KuKulzA28]

Sorry for the belated response! Thank you for that, my knowledge of Indonesian weaponry is limited. I didn't know if every group on every island had their own distinctive blades, or if there were various trends and influences from foreign cultures... and it seems there's just a beautiful mix of both indigenous design and centuries of influences and cross-pollinization of ideas and styles... making it harder and even more interesting to study Indonesian weapons

this style of klewang has really grown on me. The balance and heft is great and the aesthetics are elegant. I feel like a skilled pendekar could slash through a 100 men with one of these...

[Rick]

My pamor construction is the same style as your's Sajen .

My example may well be the sharpest sword I have .
A mere flick of the wrist and you can turn a pool noodle into little discs .

These would have been quite effective at close quarters .

[Sajen]

Hello Rick, so is my guess that my one is from Lombok maybe correct. The blade is one of the finest pamor blades I have.

[Rick]

I'm in the same boat as you Sajen .

I couldn't say for sure .

[KuKulzA28]

Hello! I have another question...

Does anyone happen to know Indonesian smiths who make klewangs in this style?

I know of 5 Indonesian knife maker/vendors and they all, for whatever reason, wouldn't be able to do this job... whether because they require a minimum number of pieces for a custom order, or because they specialize in small knives, or because they would charge too much... I'm not too knowledgeable about local smiths in Indonesia and I was wondering if any of you have any idea of Sumatran or Lombok smiths who could make this style of klewang/pedang... or a smith who's good at it...

If it is against forum rules to mention vendors and makers in a post...
Could someone (who knows and is willing to share) PM me regarding information on local smiths?


The balance of this blade, the weight, the handling, the aesthetics - it's just really pleasing to me. I'm used to tip-heavy machete-types that are practical and can definitely mess someone up, but this klewang is just fast and deadly... would be great for slashing through underbrush (which kills the wrist when doing it for a long time with a heavy 'chete) and slicing flesh. I'd definitely like to have one newly made for me... but if no one makes these anymore, perhaps I will sell my antique and "forget about it".

Thanks guys!