Chrom plated blade

M

Manoucher Moshtagh

Joined
May 24, 2001
Messages
443
I saw a Khukuri an antique one with a Chrome plate on it, presumably to prevent rust. How can I get rid of this chrome plate?

Regards,

Manoucher
 
Manoucher,

The chrome plated Ks are the lowest form of Indian made tourist khukuri. The best thing you can do is to give it a good burial in the deepest part of the ocean.

n2s
 
Chrome plating occurs on many Indian and Pakistani cheap-o knives and swords. These blades are best used for decoration, and they're not even that good for wall hangers.

I agree with N2S, make an offering to your favorite sea-god, and sacrifice that thang!

Keith
 
What about the Ghurka military parade khuks?

I have one with a chrome blade and patent leather scabbard. It is quite well made. Horn handle.

Bill Marsh
 
Bill: would chrome plating on a khuk make the khuk easy to date? How long has chromium solution electroplating been in use over there?

Keith
 
chrome was as popular on topline khukuris as it was on Cadillacs and other luxury cars of the day.
Here, for example is a presentation kothimora, presented to Brigadier B.A. Burke D.S.O., c. 1952 by the officers of the 99th Gurkha Infantry Brigade. Burke won the D.S.O. as a colonel in WWII, was made a temporary brigadier in 1949, assumed command of the 99th in Malaya in 1952.
Chromed dui chirra blade, bolster and buttcap, all original, and no doubt most impressive by candlelight from the silver candelabra at the Officers' Mess when originally presented
 

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Wow, Berkley. That is a most impressive piece. Love those fullers!

I've noted the almost chrome look to the HI khuks I've got. No need for chrome finishes on those!

Keith
 
There are exceptions, but beware of chrome finishes. Presentation pieces are rare and junk is very common. It was also popular at one point to chrome older knives for display/parade purposes. Since this permanently destroys the original finish, it also destroys much of the collector value.

On a practical level chrome allows oxidation to penetrate at the edge and to take hold under the chrome plating. It is imposible to take care of this problem without removing and recoating the piece. Chrome belongs on bumper and handle bars, but keep it off your knives; and don't buy a chromed knife without authenticating that the finish is original to the piece.

n2s
 
Berk,

That is a great looking piece. How did they finish the edge? Has it beeen sharpened or chromed over?

n2s
 
I hate crome! The only knife that has a cromed blade worth owning is a Mad Dog and even than it still comes off!:barf: :D
 
Mine is Nepalese!! remember I agree with you guys but some excellent military swords from Europe have Chrome plates and are excellent pieces, partly judged on the quality and intactness of the Chrome plate, my friends.

Regards,

Manoucher
 
I don't think there is a plating shop in Nepal -- I doubt that the kamis would allow it even if there was.
 
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