Katana prototypes 2 and 3. Pix.

Bill Martino

Bill Martino

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Mar 5, 1999
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Here are prototype Katanas 2 and 3. One goes to Broken Arrow and the other to RayC for testing, evaluation and suggestions for improvement.

Because I have not told them the kamis don't know where to go with the handle but we should see a nice steel tsuba and flush buttcap on future efforts with a handle that is oval and guides the hand toward the cutting edge. Scabbards will have two "hangers" rather than the one large one.

Suggestions and comments very welcome. But remember we are not trying to clone a Japanese Katana. This is the BirGorkha Everest Katana for those who might want one.

length 35 inches, blade 25, handle 10. Thickness about 3/16, width -- max about 1 & 1/4, min about 1. Weight about 2.25 lbs. Hardness very good on wood handled model, not as good on horn handled model but still considerable better than no 1 prototype. I rate wood handle at 95%. Horn handle at 90%. No 1 I rated as %85.

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Blessings from the computer shack in Reno.

Uncle Bill
Himalayan Imports Website
Khukuri FAQ


[This message has been edited by Bill Martino (edited 04-28-2000).]
 
Judging from the pictures alone, they are definitely moving in the right direction. Make the handle oval and use a steel tsuba and flush buttcap, as you mentioned, and I'd be happy with either handle design. I am partial, however, to what appears to be the more curved point on the bottom one.

I'm looking forward to reading Broken Arrow's and RayC's hands-on reviews.

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Cheers,
Brian
AlleyCat.gif


He who finishes with the most toys wins.
 
I'm interested in shorter, thicker, heavier model with one more fuller though it'll make a nightmare with customs. The model should be an AK katana (tanto) or an... HI toothpick!

If not headed to katana clone, traditional khukuri handle will go well with tanto size for one hand. If I could find enough takers in Japan I'll hand carry them. For beginners, even average to expert users heavier katana cuts better for cost a bit of speed unless a master who can cut without utilising inertia. I definitely love heavier blades.

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\(^o^)/ Mizutani Satoshi \(^o^)/
 
Bill,

What are the dimensions on the tsuba? it looks kinda small to me.

I'm liking the look though, although I'm not a big fan of the scabbard yet.. I'm just used to the traditional japanese one I guess.
 
Tsuba, handle and buttcap are not yet standardized. Tsubua will probably end up being made from steel and designed after some old model. These are prototypes and the final configuration may stray somewhat far from what we see here.

------------------
Blessings from the computer shack in Reno.

Uncle Bill
Himalayan Imports Website
Khukuri FAQ
 
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