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