Hi. I am not a "knife guy", but I am preparing some survival gear for me and my family and can see the beauty of a Kukri as THE knife. However, all the sites I go to that sell them are pretty cheap 50-80 dollars and that makes me think they are of cheap quality. HI sells more expensive ones, but they are too traditional for my tastes. I like the more modern sheathes and handles. CS sells one for 800 dollars, but all comments on it are negative. Please recommend me a survival kukri that is built to last and take a beating.
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Khukuri Recommendation?
- Thread starter reziztor
- Start date
Welcome reziztor!
I'm going to split your inquiry here into its own thread so that your question can be easily seen and answered thouroughly.
You've come to the right place for your survival/camping needs.
H.I. has a large variety of different styles and handle shapes, but they are all made in the traditional time honored manner, using traditional materials. They are made from differentially tempered 5160 steel and are the toughest khukuri you will find.
Given your needs i would suggest (before wildmike does
) that the M-43 model would suit you well.
I'm going to split your inquiry here into its own thread so that your question can be easily seen and answered thouroughly.
You've come to the right place for your survival/camping needs.
H.I. has a large variety of different styles and handle shapes, but they are all made in the traditional time honored manner, using traditional materials. They are made from differentially tempered 5160 steel and are the toughest khukuri you will find.
Given your needs i would suggest (before wildmike does
) that the M-43 model would suit you well.I'm guessing the universal answer would be a 15" Ang Khola or Chiruwa Ang Khola. But if you want something more tailored to your wants and needs, we're probably going to need a bit more info. What's your height and weight? Some can handle the larger khuks, while others find them too unwieldy. Also, it's a matter of personal taste as well, and what you expect of it. So I think you may need more than one.
But if you're really after a survival khukuri that you can take to hell and back, you really can't get any better than an Ang Khola. It's the number one selling model for a reason.
But if you're really after a survival khukuri that you can take to hell and back, you really can't get any better than an Ang Khola. It's the number one selling model for a reason.
Ha!
Karda beat me to it. M-43 is the way to go from my experience.
A good number of years ago I was looking to get a kukri for survival/outdoors and defensive purposes. I checked into the CS Gurkha Kukri (which was then made of Carbon V steel). However I had concerns with it. First it was expensive. Second, It had many reviews which bemoaned its tendency to get stuck in the material being chopped, Third the Kraton handle was predisposed to cause really bad blisters in use.
The cheapie India made models I wouldn't even consider since they don't work well and would fall apart in use.
I chose the M-43 due to information on the H.I. website in the Kukri FAQ. I believed from that info that not only would it's design allow it to perform as well as larger heavier blades. But the design also allowed it to thrust exceptionaly well too.
That blade served me through several years of tough survival bush living and is still going strong. It served as my primary tool in building dozens of shelters and two trappers cabins. Running trap lines etc.etc. etc.
The WWII model would also serve you well.
Now about the traditional handle. The ring in the middle looks like it would be uncomfortable. And it is left off the M-43. However I have come to find it very useful for it positions the hand dierctly in the middle of the handle and aids in a good secure grip when using the rolling snap cut. I chose the Horn handle on my M-43 due to concerns of the wood handles being too grippy and possibly causing blisters. I needn't have been concerned as both materials hold up exceptionaly well and are very comfortable in use.
Good luck on your search for the right Kukri. Once you get one and begin using it you will never go back to anything else.
Karda beat me to it. M-43 is the way to go from my experience.
A good number of years ago I was looking to get a kukri for survival/outdoors and defensive purposes. I checked into the CS Gurkha Kukri (which was then made of Carbon V steel). However I had concerns with it. First it was expensive. Second, It had many reviews which bemoaned its tendency to get stuck in the material being chopped, Third the Kraton handle was predisposed to cause really bad blisters in use.
The cheapie India made models I wouldn't even consider since they don't work well and would fall apart in use.
I chose the M-43 due to information on the H.I. website in the Kukri FAQ. I believed from that info that not only would it's design allow it to perform as well as larger heavier blades. But the design also allowed it to thrust exceptionaly well too.
That blade served me through several years of tough survival bush living and is still going strong. It served as my primary tool in building dozens of shelters and two trappers cabins. Running trap lines etc.etc. etc.
The WWII model would also serve you well.
Now about the traditional handle. The ring in the middle looks like it would be uncomfortable. And it is left off the M-43. However I have come to find it very useful for it positions the hand dierctly in the middle of the handle and aids in a good secure grip when using the rolling snap cut. I chose the Horn handle on my M-43 due to concerns of the wood handles being too grippy and possibly causing blisters. I needn't have been concerned as both materials hold up exceptionaly well and are very comfortable in use.
Good luck on your search for the right Kukri. Once you get one and begin using it you will never go back to anything else.
- Joined
- May 9, 2002
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- 12,686
Welcome
There have also been some Foxy Follies (and maybe a few other styles) floating around as of late with a more western shaped handle and a large karda (accessory knife) strapped to the front.
There have also been some Foxy Follies (and maybe a few other styles) floating around as of late with a more western shaped handle and a large karda (accessory knife) strapped to the front.
shortwinger
Gold Member
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- Apr 7, 2010
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- 1,085
Reziztor,
I would echo 7rip's question about your size. It will save you lots of time and money if the people doing the recommending know how big you are, your hand size (just a general big, med or small) and what tasks you intend to do with the kukri. Another very important consideration would be how you intend to carry it. For instance, I usually go into the woods on my Polaris and therefore have a large powerful kukri like my Bonecutter or Bhojpure that always ride in it. The same goes for my work truck and tractor.
However, if I am going to wear the kukri on my belt while hunting or hiking, I'm 5' 6" so I have a smaller lighter one such as the current British Army Service model. Another good choice would be the smallest Ang Khola, I believe it is a 12 incher. Shortly I will have a sheath made so the kukri I carry will be an M43.
If you want to only get one kukri and have it do everything, you will find 2 champions around here. The M43 and the CAK (Chiruwa Ang Khola.) Like wildmike and many others, my choice is the M43. (I'm not quite sure, but I think Cpl P likes the............ what was it again? Oh yeah, the CAK!)
Like many on the forum, I also have an expensive CS kukri that I bought as a first kukri. Absolutely nothing wrong with it. As described above, when you first pick up that kraton handle you think; man this is nice! Much more modern than that old wood or buffalo horn! Then after 6 chops you see a red spot the size of a dime on the base of your thumb. The next morning it is blood red, stings and takes weeks to heal... I'm not a CS basher, I like my Gurkha Kukri. But as you will hear from lots of people on this forum, it rarely comes out of the sheath anymore. And while wood and horn seem "old fashion" I have 70 and 80 year old kukris that are good as new and they have wood and horn handles. Nothing wrong with traditional if it still works!
Good luck,
Bill
Virginia
I would echo 7rip's question about your size. It will save you lots of time and money if the people doing the recommending know how big you are, your hand size (just a general big, med or small) and what tasks you intend to do with the kukri. Another very important consideration would be how you intend to carry it. For instance, I usually go into the woods on my Polaris and therefore have a large powerful kukri like my Bonecutter or Bhojpure that always ride in it. The same goes for my work truck and tractor.
However, if I am going to wear the kukri on my belt while hunting or hiking, I'm 5' 6" so I have a smaller lighter one such as the current British Army Service model. Another good choice would be the smallest Ang Khola, I believe it is a 12 incher. Shortly I will have a sheath made so the kukri I carry will be an M43.
If you want to only get one kukri and have it do everything, you will find 2 champions around here. The M43 and the CAK (Chiruwa Ang Khola.) Like wildmike and many others, my choice is the M43. (I'm not quite sure, but I think Cpl P likes the............ what was it again? Oh yeah, the CAK!)
Like many on the forum, I also have an expensive CS kukri that I bought as a first kukri. Absolutely nothing wrong with it. As described above, when you first pick up that kraton handle you think; man this is nice! Much more modern than that old wood or buffalo horn! Then after 6 chops you see a red spot the size of a dime on the base of your thumb. The next morning it is blood red, stings and takes weeks to heal... I'm not a CS basher, I like my Gurkha Kukri. But as you will hear from lots of people on this forum, it rarely comes out of the sheath anymore. And while wood and horn seem "old fashion" I have 70 and 80 year old kukris that are good as new and they have wood and horn handles. Nothing wrong with traditional if it still works!
Good luck,
Bill
Virginia
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- Jan 28, 2006
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- 7,035
And to counter Wildmike's comments, I bring forth the M43's arch-nemesis, the Chiruwa Ang Khola (CAK).
When I selected my kukri, I wanted one that could chop as well or better than an axe of the same length. I also wanted one that was Armageddon-ready, and since the CAK is the only one that is warranted as a prybar, it sounded great. Also, I like the chiruwa handle because I think with my skills, if the scales break off, I could rig up a new set if, for some reason (like the end of the world
), I couldn't send it back to HI.. The standard handle is beyond my skill to repair myself.
I remember not liking the idea of the traditional handle ring when I was first shopping for one, and thinking some modern material for the handle would be superior. However, after using them, the ring is a must-have for me. It really locks the hand into place when working.
Before you think that WildMike and I have some sort of rivalry going, the M43 is really a very close #2 for me to the CAK. One person here ordered an M43 special with the ring on the handle, and I'd go that way having used one without.
The natural handle materials IMO are better than the modern materials as they don't rip up your hands with use. Some prefer horn, some prefer wood, but both work.
I'd highly recommend you look through the pictures thread and read up on the FAQs and such, they'll lead you to the right choice.
HI kuks are far and above any of the "modern" renditions and a totally different animal than the made in India crap. There are some good kukri out there that go for less, however what they don't tell you, is that they often charge $40 or more for shipping, which puts them back up into the HI price range, with not quite as good fit and finish.
CAK:
M43:
When I selected my kukri, I wanted one that could chop as well or better than an axe of the same length. I also wanted one that was Armageddon-ready, and since the CAK is the only one that is warranted as a prybar, it sounded great. Also, I like the chiruwa handle because I think with my skills, if the scales break off, I could rig up a new set if, for some reason (like the end of the world
), I couldn't send it back to HI.. The standard handle is beyond my skill to repair myself.I remember not liking the idea of the traditional handle ring when I was first shopping for one, and thinking some modern material for the handle would be superior. However, after using them, the ring is a must-have for me. It really locks the hand into place when working.
Before you think that WildMike and I have some sort of rivalry going, the M43 is really a very close #2 for me to the CAK. One person here ordered an M43 special with the ring on the handle, and I'd go that way having used one without.
The natural handle materials IMO are better than the modern materials as they don't rip up your hands with use. Some prefer horn, some prefer wood, but both work.
I'd highly recommend you look through the pictures thread and read up on the FAQs and such, they'll lead you to the right choice.
HI kuks are far and above any of the "modern" renditions and a totally different animal than the made in India crap. There are some good kukri out there that go for less, however what they don't tell you, is that they often charge $40 or more for shipping, which puts them back up into the HI price range, with not quite as good fit and finish.
CAK:
M43:
Look ma! I'm famous!!
Welcome reziztor.
All HI khuk's are build to last and take a good beating along the way.
Quality isn't a issue here...unlike personal choice and preferences.
Most swear by the M43, but you have to consider handle materials and size as to be a decent fit in your hand...although it can be modified or slimmed down later too.
Blade Size is also important, thus other forumites need your build for a narrower recommendation.
Just remember one "knife" can't do all...although the kukri comes pretty close.
Edit: Forgot to mention Blade Weight! Lightest one for such activity would be the Tamang or even the Bahadur. those however will not out-chop the "normal" ones.
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- Sep 25, 2002
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- 3,179
My first, and still favorite, is an 18"/ 28oz WWII in wood. It's about as much khuk as I can comfortably (and safely) use for long periods of work. I had a pair of 25" sirupatis but they were too tiring and I traded them. The 15" AK is a number one seller for a reason. It chops and is packable. I liked mine but it's pretty much the wife's now. I just replaced it with an Ultimate Fighter (which is a sinister thing) but haven't yet given it a workout. I suspect it won't chop like the 15" AK. (Maybe a BAS is in order). I'm 5'8" and not overly muscular.
If you're a big guy you might be able to handle a 20" AK. If you're going to pack it far you might look at an M-43, 18" AK, Bonecutter or Ganga Ram. If you're smaller of frame you might be better served by the 15" AK, WWII (either size), BAS or 18"-20" siru/chit/GS. Just email Aunt Yangdu, tell her what you're looking for, how big you are and where you're looking to use it. She may have something not listed on the website.
Oh, and welcome.
Frank
If you're a big guy you might be able to handle a 20" AK. If you're going to pack it far you might look at an M-43, 18" AK, Bonecutter or Ganga Ram. If you're smaller of frame you might be better served by the 15" AK, WWII (either size), BAS or 18"-20" siru/chit/GS. Just email Aunt Yangdu, tell her what you're looking for, how big you are and where you're looking to use it. She may have something not listed on the website.
Oh, and welcome.
Frank
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I have a few cheap CS machetes, and a CS kukri model. It took me a while to order from H.I. but I got a 12 AK on a Deal of the Day. I am now saving up for a larger full tang AK. All I can say is that when you hold this beast in your hands you will just know that it is the real deal and won't question the traditional look.
They are amazing pieces.
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Another nod to the M-43...
Though admittedly it's my ONLY kukhuri so far.
Though admittedly it's my ONLY kukhuri so far.
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- Sep 2, 2004
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HI blades are built to last. Even though the CAK is the only khuk warrantied to use as a prybar, all of them are able to handle whatever tasks you ask of them. If you add in the fact that Yangdu provides excellent customer service, it is almost a no-brainer in my mind.
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Looking for a "Kukri" any idea's Guys????
oldschool45
Gold Member
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Ascalon, My M43(18"~19") =34oz, my 20" AK=38oz difference about 4oz. Apples to apples length would probably vary more do to difference between Kami's than length or model. Ang Khola vs Chiruwa Ang Khola is pretty big too as the full tang of the chiruwa adds a few more ounces versus a stick tang.
mainewoods, please post your height,weight , build and intended purpose for the Khukuri. Not being nosy but someone with similar build to you might give you a more meaningful answer. Default answer to your question is usually the WWII or M43.
mainewoods, please post your height,weight , build and intended purpose for the Khukuri. Not being nosy but someone with similar build to you might give you a more meaningful answer. Default answer to your question is usually the WWII or M43.
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The owner is in model-jungle made by kukri haws, a stunning cutting edge for cutting, choping and spliting,. Eta-a link to its representation in our assembly
http://metalblade.eu/viewtopic.php?f=4&t=770
http://metalblade.eu/viewtopic.php?f=4&t=770
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Esav Benyamin
MidniteSuperMod
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Link is OK: it's a knife review in a Bulgarian website.
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16.5" WWII or 17" (B)GRS. Get the wood handled ones, and then you can gently sand down to your hand size or shape, if necessary. If you want to customize for rugged use, wrap the handle with grip tape, then thoroughly clean the blade, tape the edge, and spray paint the blade with flat black, brown, tan, or green enamel.
Welcome!
John
Welcome!
John