The Kris is arguably the most famous and culturally significant bladed weapon in the Southern Philippines. It's an icon that is equal parts deadly weapon, spiritual heirloom, and symbol of status.
​Here is an overview of the Philippine Kris (often called Kalis by the Tausug and Maguindanao people):

​🇵🇭 Origin and Distinction
​While the Kris originated in Indonesia (where it is spelled Keris), the weapon took on a unique and larger form when adopted by the Moro people of the Southern Philippines (Mindanao and the Sulu Archipelago).

The Philippine Kris evolved from a small dagger into a large, formidable battlefield sword, perfectly suited for the close-quarters fighting tactics of the Moro warriors.
​🗡️ Design and Blade Significance
​The Kris is instantly recognizable by its characteristic blade, which can be either straight or wavy.
​Wavy Blade (The Naga):
​The undulating waves (or luk) are commonly associated with the movement of the Naga (a mythical serpent or dragon) and often carry deep spiritual meaning.
​The wavy design was said to maximize the wound channel during a thrusting attack and prevent the blade from being pulled out easily, maximizing damage to an opponent.
​The number of waves is significant, traditionally always being an odd number (e.g., 7, 9, 11, or 13 waves) which is believed to bring good fortune to the wielder.
​Straight Blade:
​While the wavy Kris is more iconic, straight blades were equally, if not more, common and were preferred for sheer stabbing and thrusting power.
​Pamor Pattern:
​The blade is often made using a layered or pattern-welded steel (similar to Damascus steel, but distinct), creating unique swirling or mottled patterns known as pamor. This pamor is not just decorative; it is believed to imbue the blade with spiritual power, protecting the owner and influencing their fate.
​👑 Cultural Importance
​The Kris is more than just a weapon; it is an intrinsic part of Moro culture:
​Heirloom and Talisman: Kris swords are often considered family heirlooms, passed down through generations. They are believed to possess an essence or spirit (khadam or jinn) and were used as a talisman to ward off evil and bring good fortune.
​Status Symbol: A well-crafted Kris, especially one with extensive pamor and ornate fittings (often gold or silver), was a clear indicator of a man's status, rank, and wealth within the community.
​Colonial Resistance: The Kris became a powerful symbol of Filipino resistance against Spanish and American colonizers, who struggled against the determined Moro warriors wielding them in close combat.

Our Philippine Kris Sword #2 is handmade in Maguindanao, Philippines by experienced Moro "Muslim" blacksmiths "Pandays" that has been making swords for generations. Our sword is custom made with from carbon steel and Balayong wood handle which is a hardwood native to the Philippines with a Narra wood scabbard which is the Philippine National Tree. The overall length of the sword is just over 29.5" from blade to handle end with a blade length of almost 22" and a length of 31.5" with the scabbard. The sword weighs 2.738 lbs without scabbard and 4.314 lbs with the scabbard.