Introduction
Bichawa literally means “scorpion”. It is a rare concealed weapon of the 17th century, characterized by a small, double-edged, curved blade.
Historical Background
Bichawa was mainly identified as a Marathi weapon. The blade length was around 7 inches with a total length of approximately 11 inches. Some variants featured two blades and were used tactically to trap the opponent’s sword.
Technology
Curved double-edged dagger weapon
Materials Used:
Damascus steel, Iron
Damascus steel, Iron
Weight:
Lightweight
Lightweight
Range / Capacity:
Very close combat
Very close combat
Advantages
Concealable weapon, effective for surprise attacks, capable of disabling enemy weapons
Limitations
Limited reach; requires high skill and proximity
Notes
In a dual-blade variant, the enemy sword was trapped using the left hand while the primary weapon engaged from the right hand.