Discreet Handle Mod

[Lt. Dan]

My favorite khukuris often have the raised handle ring positioned between the middle and ring fingers. But its location often varies, and if it's in a not so good place, then a hot spot on the hand will occur with heavy use.

Some careful filing will bring the ring down to where the handle can be gripped anywhere without a problem. The trick is to retain the right looks and not go too far. Tung oil finishes the job on rosewood handles.

I've often wondered why some of those rings stick out so far. Unless there's a special chopping technique, it seems strange to make them this way. Lots of the WW1 and WW2 service khukuris have rings that are flush with the rest of the handle, but so many others' rings are quite prominent.

 

[Johan van Zyl]

Just a thought on this topic before more able forumites bring in the good stuff.... I think the proud rings are there not only for religious significance, but also for retention of grip when the khuk is swung hard, especially when the palm is sweaty. I think it's not ONLY the wide grip base which fulfils this task. Most grip bases are not as wide as that of a cheetlang. But now a second thought. I know you're not supposed to STAB with a khuk, the khuk having no guard at all, but just for a moment, think what will happen to your fingers if you have to stab really hard (against an assailant eg.) and your palm is sweaty (or bloody). Imagine your slippery fingers sliding down over the cho, then over the recurve, then into the belly.... Seen any horror movies lately?

Run your fingers forewards over most horn handles, then backwards. In which direction does the proud ring offer greatest resistance?