Chitlangi?

G

Glenn Jones

Joined
Feb 26, 2002
Messages
618
Having a beautiful 19 inch Chitlangi in the mail, I am searching for more information about this style of Khukuri. For instance, I have seen reviews of the 21 inch Chitlangi, but not too much on the smaller version. Has anyone written one? Is the smaller version fine for cutting vines and small timber (up to what diameter)? Can it be used as a substitute for a machete (although 10 times more beautiful and stronger - personal bias)? Has anyone used the smaller version when backpacking and was it useful to carry? Would the smaller version be regarded more in the weapon range of khukuries or more a general purpose khukuri? In the smaller version, which part of the blade is hardened (eg. is the blade hardened right to the point)? From what I can work out, it is a blade original to BirGorka and originally came out as a 21 inch blade about half way through last year(if I have read my search info correctly), but which Kami designed or made the first one? Do the villagers in Chitlangi actually use a Dui Chirra style khukuri or are these designs totally a BirGhorka design? From what I have read about the Chitlangi, it is so beautiful that I suspect I will be reticent to use it - are owners actually using their smaller version Chitlangis or simply drooling over them?:rolleyes: I would appreciate any information you can give me.
 
Glenn:

Ask and you shall receive. There are more experienced types out there who could tell you more, though.

S.
 
I for the time being am drooling over my 21" Bura Chit. However, I plan to use it if the opportunity arises. Gorgous handle... I dont know if I could use it.

Who made it? Well that depends what the mark on the blade is. Tell us and we can tell you.

As for a review, I dont think there is anything that sells a quick as the Chitlangi or the M43. Everyone seems to love'em.

The hardening will be differential, soft near the cho, really hard near the 'belly', and a little softer at the point (because you might strike a rock). How large the hard area is at the 'belly' depends on the Kami, but every khukuri teaches you how to use it. You will understand this when you recieve it and more so as you use it.

The smaller version will mean you dont get as much velocity/weight in the swing and you will lose some chopping power, but you will have better endurance with the lighter blade.

As for villagers, all designs originate from a traditional design, but this one is a little more complex and difficult to forge. I would place the probability of finding a villiger of this style slim to none, somethink like this would be more for royalty or found on a really old knife.

Did I miss any of your questions? :confused:
 
Glenn, the Chitlangi came to BirGorkha courtesy of two kamis, Jag and Prem, who have since left. They forged a Chitlangi as their "final exam" piece, to prove they were BirGorkha quality kamis. Yvsa now has this beauty, and probably sleeps with it, to listen to him :D I have the 21" (a Durba) and feel the same way. The smaller version, IMO, would be a bit quicker, but just as useful. Both are awesome (that word, again) weapons. The blade style is an old one, possibly related to the Chainpuri - they are similar enough that it is easy to assume that one had an influence on the other. Which one is oldest? Lost in the clouds:) There are several references to the village of Chitlang on the Nepali sites, but none mention the blade (that I've seen, so far). The area is the site of a beautiful and ancient Buddhist temple, copper mining, and some agriculture (citrus, I believe). "Chitlangi" means, "from Chitlang".
 
Thanks for the information. Just like Brendan said today in his thread, the wait for the postman is a killer. These questions were my way of trying to ease the excitement. It hasn't worked. Your information and Spence's thread today have increased my anticipation of receiving my khukuri. I'll have to take Uncle Bill's advice in Brendan's thread and take half a dozen valium tablets.:(
 
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