Ifugao Lance head with hole

Nonoy Tan · 19th October 2008, 10:02 AM

Recently, I came across this lance from the Ifugao people, Philippines. Its shape is typical of leaf-shaped lances from the area, except for the hole on the lance head. I was told by local informants that the lance had been made for battle, and that the hole served to facilitate retrieval of the lance after it has pierced the flesh on the enemy. The idea was that once the lance head enters the enemy's flesh, his blood would displace the air in the hole - thus lessening the pressure (suction), and thereby allowing for faster retrieval of the lance.

Is this true or myth? Any thoughts?

Has anybody undertaken a scientific method of testing the validity of this myth? - without committing murder

Valid or not, what impressed me is the amount of detailed thought placed in the design the warrior's weapon - for the purpose of gaining any (nor matter how insignificant) advantage over the enemy.

19th October 2008, 10:02 AM	#1
Nonoy Tan Member Join Date: Aug 2007 Posts: 293	Ifugao Lance head with hole Recently, I came across this lance from the Ifugao people, Philippines. Its shape is typical of leaf-shaped lances from the area, except for the hole on the lance head. I was told by local informants that the lance had been made for battle, and that the hole served to facilitate retrieval of the lance after it has pierced the flesh on the enemy. The idea was that once the lance head enters the enemy's flesh, his blood would displace the air in the hole - thus lessening the pressure (suction), and thereby allowing for faster retrieval of the lance. Is this true or myth? Any thoughts? Has anybody undertaken a scientific method of testing the validity of this myth? - without committing murder Valid or not, what impressed me is the amount of detailed thought placed in the design the warrior's weapon - for the purpose of gaining any (nor matter how insignificant) advantage over the enemy. Attached Images