Khukuris

Brendan · Mar 30, 2002

Hi all

Im looking for advice on getting a HI Khukuri but have never seen one so the choice is difficult. Any help appreciated !!!

Cliff Stamp · Mar 30, 2002

If you are asking about the quality and support, then it is very high in both areas. Concerning which one to get, it depends on use. There are a huge amount of models covering a very broad range of abilities. What kinds of things did you want to use the blade for?

-Cliff

Brendan · Mar 30, 2002

Chopping, digging, admiring its beauty. Anything it comes in handy for. Do you own one ?

Brent VanZanen · Mar 30, 2002

I'm pretty sure Cliff has a few....I've got a couple,I'm 6'/200lb and like a khukuri between 1.5 and 2lb. I suggest a 18"WWII or 20"sirupati for a first khukuri. WWII is better for chopping big stuff but the siru's extra reach with the same weight works better for me.

Cliff Stamp · Mar 30, 2002

Yes, I have used a few both from HI, GH and several cheaper pure tourist models. For the kinds of uses you are describing I would go with the Ang Khola, which is the stock heavy workhouse model. The size to pick mainly depends on you. The 15" model was a heavy seller for years, but as of late the 18" model has come on strong, the larger handle size being one of the main reasons. The larger 20"+ versions are quite heavy (~3 lbs) and require a very strong wrist to use them for an extended period of time. You can read some comments on my use experience in the various reviews :

http://www.physics.mun.ca/~sstamp/knives/reviews.html

-Cliff

redvenom · Mar 31, 2002

I just became the proud owner of two HI khukuris, my first bent blades. For a first khukuri, maybe one of the midsize ones: 16.5" WWII, British Army Service (BAS), or either 15" or 18" Sirupati.

HI has an excellent record and returns due to failure are pretty rare. These are without a doubt the finest authentic Nepali khukuris currently being made. For a great deal, look out for Uncle Bill Martino's give-away deals on the Himalayan Imports section under Manufacturer Forums.

Andrew Limsk

Ivan Campos · Mar 31, 2002

Hello

Even though my UBE is on its way to Florida right now, I still own 24 other khukuris and more than half should be HI.
"Uncle" Bill Martino's service is fantastic and the products he offers are of very high quality and a bargain. The hardest part - as you may have guessed, is to pick one... but I have to warn you that after the first khukuri, it won't be long until you want to get another, and another...

Mike L. · Mar 31, 2002

Get a 15" Ang Khola, a BAS, or a WW2 model. All are excellent general purpose khuks. The AK will be heavier, and more of a chopping beast than the other two.

You can not go wrong with an HI, no matter which model you choose!

--Mike L.

Chiro75 · Apr 1, 2002

I have several from Himalayan Imports and one from Gurkha House and they are pretty much the same (at least several years ago they were). Anyway, I would go for a village model first. They aren't "true" HI khuks, but they are of similar quality (rougher finish, cheaper sheaths usually) and they will give you an idea of what will work for you without laying out too much money. Of all of my HI khukuris, I like the village models the best!

Roadrunner · Apr 2, 2002

I have a 21" Gelbu Special model that is easily my favorite knife. Unfortunately, I don't have a lot of HI blades yet, (note the 'yet'), but I have yet to hear a negative comment about HI blades or service, and I'm completely satisfied with mine. I would say that you can't go wrong with any of them, because eventually you'll have more anyway.

swede79 · Apr 2, 2002

I'm not sure if I like mine, I'll need some more to make sure....

Seriously, the HI models are very sturdy, and the customer service that Bill provides is excellent. If you are looking for a first, a WW2 or BAS would be good choices for all around work.