Louis Martin Custom Knives · Est. 1993

Louis Martin Custom Knives

Handmade Karambit Knives

Quick Answer

A karambit is a curved fixed-blade or folding knife originating in Southeast Asia, characterized by a hooked blade resembling a tiger's claw and a ring hole in the handle for retention. Louis Martin karambits are hand-forged in Damascus and high-carbon steel.

The karambit's distinctive curved blade and retention ring make it one of the most recognizable and capable defensive tools in the world. Louis Martin's handmade karambits are forged to museum quality — the kind of craftsmanship that collectors and martial artists seek.

Characteristics & Construction

Blade Curvature

The karambit blade curves inward at 90–180° depending on the model. Fixed-blade karambits feature the full dramatic curve; folding karambits are more compact with a modified curve for pocket carry.

Retention Ring

The index-finger ring is the defining karambit feature — it prevents the knife from being disarmed and enables reverse grip (blade facing back along the forearm) for defensive applications.

Materials

Our karambits are offered in Damascus high-carbon steel (etched patterns create a visually striking finished piece) and D2 tool steel for hard-use applications. Handle materials include G10, Micarta, and exotic wood.

Care & Maintenance

  1. 1

    Clean the retention ring

    Debris accumulates inside the retention ring. Clean with a cotton swab after field use.

  2. 2

    Oil the curved edge

    The inner curve of the karambit blade can be difficult to oil evenly. Use a cotton swab to apply oil to the full interior edge surface.

  3. 3

    Sharpen with a rounded rod

    The interior edge of a karambit blade is sharpened with a tapered ceramic rod or specialized curved whetstone rather than a flat stone.

Karambit Knives — Frequently Asked Questions

What is a karambit knife?
A karambit is a curved knife from Southeast Asia, traditionally used in Indonesian and Filipino martial arts. Its hooked blade and finger-ring handle enable a distinctive grip that provides excellent retention and control in close-quarters defensive situations.
Are karambit knives legal to carry?
Carry legality varies by jurisdiction. Fixed-blade karambits are subject to the same laws as any fixed-blade knife in your state. Folding karambits are legal for carry in most US states. Always verify local laws before carry.
What is the purpose of the ring on a karambit?
The retention ring is worn around the index finger, locking the knife to the hand even if grip pressure is lost. It also enables the reverse-grip carry position where the blade faces rearward along the forearm — a fundamental karambit defensive technique.

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