Another Khuk Question

S

Snowman366

Joined
Apr 16, 2006
Messages
27
Hello. Since everyone's been so forthcoming with advice, I have a question of my own.

My only experience with a khukri-type blade has been with a Ka-Bar machete. It has been a valued tool for camping, canoeing and hunting trips. But...it's not a khukri, so I'm hoping to buy one from the friendly folks at HI.

I'm looking for a khukri with about a 12-inch blade, since that seems to handle really well for me. My only glitch is that I have really big hands, and the khukris I've handled so far have smallish handles. Also, I'm wanting to get one with some really good steel with a good Rockwell rating.

If anyone can guide me, I'd sure appreciate it.
 
Welcome Snowman366!
I gave your post it's own topic, so that your question is more easily addressed.

If you're looking for a 12" blade, An 18" khukuri will be your choice. Our khukuri are measured in overall length, so an 18" khukuri should give you about 12" of blade. As for the handles, H.I. has always made it's khukuri with larger handles, to accomodate the western market. That should not be a problem for you. I think your biggest problem is going to be which one to buy.The Steel used is 5160 spring steel which is differentally tempered in the traditional manner to about 58 to 60 Rc.

Our forumites should come along shortly to give their recommendations. I encourage you to ask any question and get a good feel for the H.I. product. Many here are quite knowledgable and enjoy helping new people learn too. If i can be of further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact me.
 
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I would point you to the Chiruwa Ang Khola (CAK). I got one that was later given as a gift to my son-in-law because it was way too big for me. I have medium sized hand. The CAK is a very impressive kukri. At first it actually makes you take a step back and say wow. It chops like a chain saw!

I have no experience with the super CAK or the larger Ganga Ram but I hear they are a big kukri lovers dream. I'm sure some of those folks will chime in. Just be sure to balance your desire to get a bigger kukri with the added weight. Two pounds is a lot of extra weight and an 18 inch kukri can take up a lot of pack space.

As for the Rockwell rating I would just say that if you are wanting to go the route of getting a real traditional Nepalese kukri then you will be getting a hand made item. No two are alike, and that includes hardness. They of course have no Rockwell testing equipment there so they have no way of knowing and to be honest, they probably don't care. The kukri is designed to do a job and they build it out of material they can get their hands on, just like it was done two hundred years ago. Basically you are getting a hammered truck spring that is pounded, shaped and hardened by hand. It will do the job and, if it fails HI stands behind it. (with the stipulation that the model you choose is correct for the job and the kukri is used for the purpose it was designed, meaning not abused).

I highly doubt you will be disappointed. Some people may complain that they wanted a darker colored handle or a thinner blade but you don't hear about performance failures often. And if you do, within minutes you will see a post from Yangdu saying send it back and she will replace it. That is why people come to HI.

Good luck,
Bill
 
I have a 16.5" CAK and love it. It weighs about 29 ounces and has great balance. I think Shortwinger's suggestion is on target. There are many models, but that's a great place to start, since it's very hard to stop at one:D. The WWII and M-43 models also seem to have larger/longer handles than some other models, so this could be something to think about. I've got 6 or 7 HI khuks and only my very small ones have little handles. I think anything 16.5" and up should feel pretty good. As Shortwinger also eluded to, an 18" HI khuk is a different animal than any other khuk type knife I've handled. HI khuks are thick and stout. A 16.5" may seem small, but HIs are capable way beyond what the numbers indicate. As originally stated, the CAK is a great place to start, or end for that matter. It will last forever. It's garanteed to:). Whatever you choose, I'll be amazed if you're not thrilled.
 
Gotta go with the tried and true 18" WWII. Plenty of blade and a little extra handle to make it very comfortable and roomy for folks with big mitts.
 
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