Weapons used in the Arnis (Types of Arnis Weapons)

There are a lot of traditional weapons that have been used for a number of years by the Filipino
warriors. After some centuries, the need called for more improvised weapons. By the time the Spanish
came to the Philippines, this art wasn’t called the Arnis yet. There were a lot of fighting techniques that
were practiced all over the region that were later combined into one mighty art.

Over the years, some weapons have gained so much popularity that they are today used by
practitioners all over the world.

1. Baston

Batons, or Arnis sticks, is the most basic weapon used in the Arnis. It
is made from rattan that doesn’t shred like wood and is by far more
durable. The baston is a lightweight safe tool that can be used in
training or in combat. A warrior can also choose to fight using two
bastons.

2. Espada y Daga

Daga is knife or dagger. It is mainly used in close range combat

as you need to get too close to hurt your enemy. This is a rather
difficult weapon to use, since you will have to dodge your
opponent’s attacks from a close distance. You can easily use two
knives at the same time to inflict more harm and to drive more
than one opponent away.

3. Balisong

This is a butterfly knife. This knife has two pieces of

handles that attach together in the middle and fold to close
the blade. It is a serious weapon that requires a lot of practice.

4. Karambit
 This is an Indo-Malay claw shaped knife that is held by
warriors by inserting the finger into a hole at the top of the
handle.

5. Sibat

This is a spear that is held to defend against close range attacks. It can also be used to attack enemies at
a distance if it is thrown at the right speed and angle.

Variations of Sibat

The list of Arnis weapons goes on with some flexible weapons and some that are mainly used for
practice. Over the years, warriors have come up with more improvised weapons and more modern
versions of the traditional ones especially for practice purposes.