Gelbu Special weight versus length

[gtk4158a]

I was wondering what would be the average weight to length ratio for a Gelbu special? I want one badly but dont need or want a Heavy 'Chopper" , thats what i got my m43 for. I have a spot in my arsenal for a Fighter that 'Might" be used for medium lvl chopping of brush. If anyone has a Kobra, how does it hold up in the light to medium chopping department and is it sturdy considering its "light" weight. Got my eye on the Gelbu special though and i would not have any problem waiting for that "light one " !! I want a Knife that is "lighter" and about 80 percent fighter to 20 percent camping tool Arghhhh, I hate deciding , lol Thanks all , you rock

 

[davidf99]

I was wondering what would be the average weight to length ratio for a Gelbu special? I want one badly but dont need or want a Heavy 'Chopper" , thats what i got my m43 for. I have a spot in my arsenal for a Fighter that 'Might" be used for medium lvl chopping of brush. If anyone has a Kobra, how does it hold up in the light to medium chopping department and is it sturdy considering its "light" weight. Got my eye on the Gelbu special though and i would not have any problem waiting for that "light one " !! I want a Knife that is "lighter" and about 80 percent fighter to 20 percent camping tool Arghhhh, I hate deciding , lol Thanks all , you rock

1. I believe the edge geometry of a Gelbu Special is somewhat similar to that of an AK, thus good for light to medium chopping. It's a robust blade but generally thinner and lighter than an AK or M43, thus pretty much what you are looking for. If you plan to take it camping or hiking, I'd suggest something in the 16-18" length range for lightness and portability. That should be big enough for self-defense unless you're camping in a high risk area, in which case something that goes "bang" might be more appropriate.

2. I don't think anyone can give you a useful numerical average for a GS because there's so much variation from kami to kami, and even from blade to blade by the same kami. Also, an average wouldn't do you any good when you buy a particular GS. All that counts is the weight of that one blade.

3. If you buy a GS from a DOTD on this forum, Yangdu always posts the length and weight. If you buy direct from Yangdu (or from the HI online store) make sure to let her know what you want in length and weight, and she'll let you know what she has in stock.

4. Most Kobras are not recommended for chopping. They're too thin and not designed for chopping. Of course the odd 1" or 2" branch would probably be ok. As usual there are exceptions. I recently got a Kobra that is unusually robust for that model, but even so it's definitely a fighting blade, thinner and longer than one would want in a chopper.

 

[gtk4158a]

Thanks David, that confirms what I had suspected.. I will just let Mrs Yangdu know and also let her know that i am in No hurry!

 

[gurkha berserka]

I have a 21 in 30 oz Gelbu and find it surprisingly fast. The spine on my example had a pretty consistent thickness until the last inch where it tapered to good sharp point. It's defiantly pointier than my AK, WWII, and... Well lets just say it has a better thrusting point than most Khuks. The angle of the blade is also condusive to good offensive attacks and the 21 inch is more than capable in the field. I would consider it to be more of a weapon than a tool but I am sure others have had great success fielding it as a tool. The grip is oversized compared to every other HI I own. It has a very solid feel and its a bit thick which I prefer. I was surprised how nimble it felt, it has the same blade angle as my Bashpati, which it reminds me of very much. It's like a Bashpati on steroids. The best part is the hollow forge which is functional and beautiful. It is one of my favorites especially because it is a Lachhu piece. His stuff is CLEAN!

I think its the fighter you might be looking for if you want a weapon that doesn't mind being a tool when needed. I am fairly big and strong so wielding it hasn't been an issue. It's a bit slower than my HI Dui Chirra which is turning out to be the best fighting khuk I own. It's grip angle, blade shape and relatively light weight 17.5 in 22oz create an offensive beast. It's liquid metal curves are distractingly deadly. The blade shape creates a more foward heavy feel and the grip angle locks your hand in even with a loose rolling wrist strike. I have found it extremely comfortable. It's in my hands more often than not. It also just happens to be the one i front of me now.

I posted pics showing the spine thickness and construction of both

 

[J W Bensinger]

I have an 18" 29oz, and a 21" 24oz gelbu. Ask for a lightish one and Auntie will likely be able to hook you up.

 

[gtk4158a]

Thanks Jw and Gurkha ! Once again this confirms what i thought and needed to know !