Weapons & Warriors: The Bhuj of the Rajput

The Bhuj is a small axe that is named after the Indian city of Bhuj. The design is that of an axe, but it is often called an axe-knife. The long blade runs down the steel shaft. The thick heavy blade allows the weapon to chop through virtually anything and the short length of its shaft allows for more agility when in engaged close with an enemy. The bhuj is quite easy to use as much as a thrusting weapon as a chopping weapon. The tip of the blade is sharpened on both edges and is capable of penetrating most armor. This axe was often called the elephant knife because of the elephant head tip on the end of the steel shaft. The ornament doubles as a handle for a thin blade that is hidden in the shaft of the axe.

The Elephant Knife is as deadly as it is decorated. Engravings run along the blades and shaft. The scabbard for the blade is often decorated as well. Despite the weight of the axe, the small size made it easily portable and made for a great weapon against those with spears. The blade could easily snap the wooden shafts of enemies as they were thrust at the Rajput. Another advantage the Bhuj has over other axes was the sword blows against its shaft. Since the entire weapon was made of steel, it would not break if a sword or axe struck the shaft.

A very rare item, and rarely used as Rajput always favored their Khanda above all other weapons, but if the Rajput loses his sword he always carries a wide variety of weapons to continue fighting. Surrender was not a word the warrior kings ever used. In fact the idea of surrender was to let down the people they ruled and were sworn to protect from invaders.

Next week I will close out the section on the Rajput with a blog about the way of life for the Rajput and some of their tactics used in defending their lands.

I hope you enjoyed this edition of Weapons and Warriors, click here to view the entire catalog of weapons and cultures. Thank you, see you next week.