Just wondering if there are some subtleties typical of Murali's work.
I don't have a great grasp of the correct technical terms but since I am lucky to own three blades by Murali Kami I feel compelled to comment.
The first example of his work was a 12inch/12ounce Bonecutter. He had just returned to HI and it was said he made a special effort in his return to work.
The fit and finish on this Bonecutter is equal to that of Vim, Sher and even every day production pieces I own made by Burra. Lines and bevels are crisp and sharp and his final polish is first class. I rate this Khuk as second only to my favourite Khukuri, a special piece made by Sgt Kardka.
My next purchase made by Murali was a custom request Cherokee Rose Bowie. Again, fit and finish was first class but there are noticeable dips/dimples in the very long and thinish 13inches blade.
However, I was fortunate to shark a Baby Cherokee Rose at the same time the "Pappa" Rose arrived in Reno. This knife with its 'mere' 8inch blade is faultless. I regularly look and marvel at how his seemless transitions of swell in the thickness of the blade from spine to middle to blade edge.
His mastery of the contoured grips on Cherokee and Baby Cherokee Rose are smooth and silky whether working in wood or horn. As luck would have it, the Baby Rose's grip is the best fitting knife grip on any I own.
The comfortable and well fitted Chiruwa grip on the Bonecutter is as close to that of my Sgt Khardka Khuk to make me think it was a mini version copied in one of those new fangled laser 3D milling machines.
I refuse to rate the work of the various Kami's as I do not have the experience or critical abilities even if I believe that such an undertaking was possible. But I can say the 'feel' of his work on the three examples I own is of practiced confidence while being solid, strong and secure.
I would not hesitate in buying more of his work or recommending it to anyone.
