Skip to product information
1 of 3

Unique Blades Runner

Hunga Munga Knife - Handmade African Knife

Hunga Munga Knife - Handmade African Knife

Regular price £130.00 GBP
Regular price Sale price £130.00 GBP
Sale Sold out
Shipping calculated at checkout.
Hunga Munga Knife
OVERALL LENGTH 21 inches    
BLADE LENGTH 15 inches    
HANDLE LENGTH 6 inches    
BLADE MATERIAL D2 Tool Steel   
HANDLE MATERIAL Wood
Free Shipping USA Orders
14-Day Returns Easy Returns
Ships from USA US Fulfillment
99% Satisfaction Customer Rated

Custom Orders

Looking for a custom-made knife? We can work with your preferred blade style, size, steel, handle material, engraving, and sheath options.
📩 Request a Custom Order with your design idea, reference image, or requirements for pricing and availability.

Care Instructions

Keep your handmade knife clean and dry to help preserve its finish and condition.

◆ Cleaning: Wipe the blade clean and dry after handling or use.
◆ Oiling: Apply a light coat of mineral or camellia oil before storage, especially on carbon and tool steels.
◆ Moisture: Avoid prolonged exposure to water or damp conditions.
◆ Storage: Store the knife and leather sheath in a cool, dry place.
◆ Avoid Soaking: Do not place the knife in a dishwasher or soak it in water.

Note: Care requirements may vary depending on the blade steel, handle material, and finish of the individual product.

Shipping Information

We ship worldwide with tracking and protective packaging.

◆ Processing: Standard orders usually ship within 4–7 business days.
◆ Delivery: Transit times vary by destination and carrier.
◆ Tracking: Tracking details are provided after dispatch.
◆ Customs: International buyers may be responsible for applicable import duties or taxes.

For questions about an order or delivery, please contact us.

Disclaimer

All our blades are individually handcrafted

  • Our products are intended for collectors, chefs, and outdoor users
  • Not designed for harm or misuse of any kind
  • Must be used responsibly and in accordance with local laws

By purchasing, you acknowledge understanding and acceptance of our terms.

View full details

Description

This handmade hunga munga knife recreates one of the most striking blade shapes ever forged in Central Africa. The hunga munga, also known as the mambele, is an iron blade with several points and a curved, hooked back. It traces back to peoples of the region stretching from the Upper Nile to Lake Chad and beyond. This piece follows that multi-pointed outline in D2 tool steel with a wood handle. It measures 21 inches overall, close to the size of historical examples, and comes with an original leather sheath.

A Blade With Many Names

Hunga munga is the name collectors use most often in English, but this family of blades goes by different names depending on the people who made it. The Zande called their version the kpinga, the Bagirmi the njiga, and the Marghi the danisco, and each group had its own variations of the shape. Most share a long main blade, extra points branching off the spine and a rear hook. Historical accounts describe them being thrown with a spinning motion as well as held in the hand.

These blades also carried meaning beyond the hunt. Among the Zande, kpinga were made under the patronage of the ruling Avongara clan. They served as marks of rank and formed part of the bride-wealth a groom's family presented at a marriage. That history is why hunga munga pieces are prized today in collections of African metalwork.

D2 Steel and Wood Handle

The original pieces were forged from local iron. This version uses D2 tool steel, a high-carbon steel with about 12% chromium that holds its edges and resists rust better than iron or plain carbon steel. It is still semi-stainless, so wipe it dry and give the blade a light coat of oil from time to time.

The 15-inch blade carries the full branching profile, and the 6-inch wood handle gives a natural, warm grip. The points arrive sharp, so handle and store the knife with care, ideally in its sheath or on a wall display mount away from children.

Explore more traditional and period blades in our historical knives collection, or browse our wider range of collectible knives.

Reviews (2)

FAQs

FAQ About the Hunga Munga Knife

What is a hunga munga?

It is a multi-pointed iron blade from Central Africa, also called the mambele, with a long main blade, extra points and a curved rear hook. Related forms include the Zande kpinga.

Is this the same size as a historical hunga munga?

Very close. This knife measures 21 inches overall, and historical examples run about 22 inches.

What is this hunga munga made of?

The blade is D2 tool steel and the handle is wood. The originals were forged from iron.

Does it come with a sheath?

Yes. It comes with a leather sheath, and its points arrive sharp.