Sāmoa: Fire knife design and purpose

The “Nifo ‘Oti” which translates to “deadly tooth” was traditionally carved from hard wood called ‘ifi lele. The nifo ‘oti was a deadly weapon used mainly for close combat fighting. The large knife resembles a machete with a hook at the end.

At the turn of the 21^st century the nifo 'oti was modified into a much smaller piece with a metal blade and a smaller hook. The ‘fire’ comes when each end of the knife is soaked in kerosene and lit with fire. The very popular fire knife dance portrays the fighting moves of a Samoan warrior as he turns and twirls the flaming blade. Fireknife competitions are held around the world.

Want to see a fire knife up close? Ask one of our own mighty warriors if you can try your hand at it (with a much safer version of knife, we assure you!)