Ulu

In the Nunatsiavummiutut variety of Inuttitut, which is spoken in Nunatsiavut (Northern Labrador), the word is spelled uluk, and in Tunumiisut (East Greenlandic) it is sakiaq or saakiq.

Traditionally the ulu was made with a caribou antler,[11] muskox horn,[12] or walrus ivory[13] handle and slate cutting surface, due to the lack of metal smelting technology in the Arctic.

[15] In certain areas, such as Ulukhaktok ("where there is material for ulus"),[16] Northwest Territories, copper was used for the cutting surface.

Because of their cultural symbolism throughout the Arctic, they are sometimes presented to people who have accomplished significant achievements in fields such as sports or education.

[18] In the early 20th century ulu collections were displayed to the American public, lending support to an interest in Arctic exploration and in studying the culture of indigenous people of the north.

[37] Some countries, including Canada, prohibit the possession or carrying of knives where the blade is perpendicular to the handle (intended to limit the use of so-called "push daggers").

However, regulations passed under the Criminal Code[38] specifically exempt the "aboriginal 'ulu' knife" from this prohibition.

[39] In the United States uluit are not allowed on commercial airline flights as carry-on luggage, though they can be in checked baggage.