Zulu Iklwa Spear

The Zulu “Iklwa” is the famous short shafted, large bladed spear that carved out one of the greatest early African nations.

As weapons, the Zulu warrior carried the iklwa stabbing spear (losing one could result in execution) and a club or cudgel fashioned from dense hardwood known in Zulu as the iwisa, usually called the knobkerrie or knobkerry English and knopkierie in Afrikaans, for beating an enemy in the manner of a mace. Zulu officers often carried the half-moon-shaped Zulu ax, but this weapon was more of a symbol to show their rank. The iklwa – so named because of the sucking sound it made when withdrawn from a human body – with its long 25 centimetres (9.8 in) and broad blade was an invention of Shaka that superseded the older thrown ipapa (so named because of the "pa-pa" sound it made as it flew through the air). It could theoretically be used both in melee and as a thrown weapon, but warriors were forbidden in Shaka's day from throwing it, which would disarm them and give their opponents something to throw back. Moreover, Shaka felt it discouraged warriors from closing into hand-to-hand combat.

Used with a cowhide shield this spear, sized for a deadly underhand stabbing fighting style, is said to be named for the sound it made as it entered the enemy. High carbon tempered steel. Brass wire reinforced socket, wood shaft.

The Zulu “Iklwa” is a must for history buffs or collectors of military weapons.

• Overall: 50"
• Blade: 13" x 2-1/2" x 3/16"
• Wt: 2 lbs/8 oz

Made by Windlass Steelcrafts®