Panabas
| Panabas | |
|---|---|
A Moro panabas | |
| Type | Sword, Battle axe |
| Place of origin | Philippines |
| Specifications | |
| Length | 24–48 in (61–122 cm) |
| Blade type | Single-edged, curved bladed, blunt or pointed tipped |
The panabas is a chopping bladed weapon or tool from the Philippines, variously described as both a sword and a battle axe. It has a distinctive long straight haft and a curving blade of various designs. 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.
It is found throughout the islands of the Philippines as an agricultural tool for cutting branches and thickets. Variants of the panabas used as combat weapons or ceremonial executioner's axes are more commonly associated with the ethnic groups of the southern Philippines, particularly with the Maranao and Maguindanao people.
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.