The Evolution of the Mak??

CharlesS · 3rd April 2008, 01:58 PM

Andrew, I remember this one and like you was perplexed by the copper blade, not to mention the rather unique method of mounting it to the haft.

As far as efficient use goes, I see it as easier to use than my bamboo mounted example because the blade is more in line with the haft.

PUFF makes a good point too in that a wide swing negates much of the problem, but there are some times in combat where this is not possible, that's why I think these were best used by mounted troops as they often had a greater range of motion....much like some Indo Persian maces are clearly made for mounted warriors based on their length and weight...they would need that same range of motion.

If you look at the panel from Angkor Wat and the two fellas clearly holding maks, you can almost imagine the range of motion and the downward swing of the weapon and can see how under those circumstances it would deliver a powerful blow.

Mark · 3rd April 2008, 03:12 PM

I am thinking that there was an original rational reason for the odd mounting, e.g., absorbing some of the shock of implact (at the certain expense of cutting power, I am sure), or stability, which was then perpetuated in later weapons out of adherence to tradition. I think this is what is going on in the later versions, with have a pretty variable amount of off-set between haft and blade. Andrew's copper version I think is strong evidence that these weapons were undeed used militarily, and at some point adopted a ceremonial or display function in addition to the practical one, like the European HLOs (halberk-like objects

) of the 18th, 19th and even 20th C. (you still see the Vatican's Swiss Guards carrying them).

Bill M · 14th April 2008, 08:11 PM

After receiving Mak #1, (Thanks, Charles) I can better understand this being an interesting weapon.

Perhaps part of the geneses of this is to have an extended strong sword like weapon at a fraction of the expense and effort a longer piece of steel would entail. Especially since often only the last section of a chopper was in actual contact with an adversary

It does, at first, have an awkward feel to it, but it feels better with a little practice.

CharlesS · 14th July 2013, 12:04 AM

Here is another form of the unusual mak.

This one is 39in. overall, with a very crudely made, but heavy, blade of 11in.

The unique feature here is the hooked tip. This leads me to believe it is likely a 20th century agricultural tool, but could just as easily be weapon, with the hook perhaps making it even more efficient.

Handling these and imagining their combat role takes some getting used to.

Flavio · 14th July 2013, 12:53 AM

It's astonishing how these weapons resembles the Moro panabas, or at least some exemples, maybe, as Charles said, because they evolved from the same type of agricoltural instruments....

Very interesting and very nice pieces!

trenchwarfare · 14th July 2013, 06:06 AM

As stated, with practice, the MAK could be a formidable weapon. It is awkward in appearance, but it's design, allows it to "roll", in the hands very smoothly. This would afford an experienced user, to dazzle an opponent long enough, for the killing blow. It also uses a forward stroke (As with a Kukri), and the shock absorbing properties of an inverted handle. You have to handle one, to appreciate it's potential. I love mine!

3rd April 2008, 03:12 PM	#2
Mark Member Join Date: Dec 2004 Posts: 987	I am thinking that there was an original rational reason for the odd mounting, e.g., absorbing some of the shock of implact (at the certain expense of cutting power, I am sure), or stability, which was then perpetuated in later weapons out of adherence to tradition. I think this is what is going on in the later versions, with have a pretty variable amount of off-set between haft and blade. Andrew's copper version I think is strong evidence that these weapons were undeed used militarily, and at some point adopted a ceremonial or display function in addition to the practical one, like the European HLOs (halberk-like objects ) of the 18th, 19th and even 20th C. (you still see the Vatican's Swiss Guards carrying them). Last edited by Mark; 16th April 2008 at 07:10 PM.

14th July 2013, 12:04 AM	#4
CharlesS Member Join Date: Dec 2004 Location: Greenville, NC Posts: 1,854	Here is another form of the unusual mak. This one is 39in. overall, with a very crudely made, but heavy, blade of 11in. The unique feature here is the hooked tip. This leads me to believe it is likely a 20th century agricultural tool, but could just as easily be weapon, with the hook perhaps making it even more efficient. Handling these and imagining their combat role takes some getting used to. Attached Images

3rd April 2008, 01:58 PM	#1
CharlesS Member Join Date: Dec 2004 Location: Greenville, NC Posts: 1,854	Andrew, I remember this one and like you was perplexed by the copper blade, not to mention the rather unique method of mounting it to the haft. As far as efficient use goes, I see it as easier to use than my bamboo mounted example because the blade is more in line with the haft. PUFF makes a good point too in that a wide swing negates much of the problem, but there are some times in combat where this is not possible, that's why I think these were best used by mounted troops as they often had a greater range of motion....much like some Indo Persian maces are clearly made for mounted warriors based on their length and weight...they would need that same range of motion. If you look at the panel from Angkor Wat and the two fellas clearly holding maks, you can almost imagine the range of motion and the downward swing of the weapon and can see how under those circumstances it would deliver a powerful blow.

14th April 2008, 08:11 PM	#3
Bill M Member Join Date: Mar 2005 Location: USA Georgia Posts: 1,599	After receiving Mak #1, (Thanks, Charles) I can better understand this being an interesting weapon. Perhaps part of the geneses of this is to have an extended strong sword like weapon at a fraction of the expense and effort a longer piece of steel would entail. Especially since often only the last section of a chopper was in actual contact with an adversary It does, at first, have an awkward feel to it, but it feels better with a little practice.

14th July 2013, 12:53 AM	#5
Flavio Member Join Date: Dec 2004 Location: Italia Posts: 1,243	It's astonishing how these weapons resembles the Moro panabas, or at least some exemples, maybe, as Charles said, because they evolved from the same type of agricoltural instruments.... Very interesting and very nice pieces!

14th July 2013, 06:06 AM	#6
trenchwarfare Member Join Date: Oct 2008 Posts: 385	As stated, with practice, the MAK could be a formidable weapon. It is awkward in appearance, but it's design, allows it to "roll", in the hands very smoothly. This would afford an experienced user, to dazzle an opponent long enough, for the killing blow. It also uses a forward stroke (As with a Kukri), and the shock absorbing properties of an inverted handle. You have to handle one, to appreciate it's potential. I love mine!