kukuri help

[Monofletch]

I am thinking about buying my first kukuri (I hope I spelled it right). What would be a good 'starter' without spending a ton. It will be for chopping and field chores.

 

[FinnSetanta]

You would probably be best picked up a KLVUK from Himalayan Imports. It's cheap, high quality, and just plain fun.

 

[katanas]

I suggest watching the Himalayan imports deal of the day. You can find a variety of top quality Kukri/Kukuri at VERY reasonable prices from VERY respectable people. If you read up a bit, you will find they are highly respected here and I doubt you will be disappointed. Enjoy your search .

 

[Dirtbiker]

What's your idea of a ton of money... $50, $100, $150+???

The Himalayan Imports KLVUK is a great buy at around $50 but if you up you budget to $100-120 this will open up some great options from HI as well.

I'm a big fan of the HI WWII kukri in the 16.5" (overall) length. A close second would be either the Ang Khola or Chiuwa Ang Khola in the same length.

 

[Trendari]

That's where I got mine and they work great.

 

[Monofletch]

Is there a preferred size or length to look for?

 

[Swampdog]

Take a look at the Ka-Bar Combat Kukri, made in USA, or their Kukri Machete, made in Taiwan.

Size depends on the tasks you plan to use the kukri to do, the Combat Kukri is a good size for general use, the machete for brush clearing.

Do a SEARCH of kukris on this website or try YouTube.

 

[shortwinger]

I learned about the kukri from the BAS or British Army Service model. This is also sometimes called a BSI, Service No.1 or Jungle models. This is just about the smallest serious kukri available and is the current issue model for the military. I would recommend going to Himalayan Imports and asking for a BAS.

While kukri people call this model small, at roughly 16 inches it is still a very big knife. But using a kukri requires a learning curve and starting with some of the bigger heavier models slows the process down and may even turn people off to the kukri.

Even though I went on to use other models my jungle kukri is still one of my favorites. Good lusk on your search.

 

[Esav Benyamin]

Check out our Himalayan Imports forum, and browse the stickies. A LOT of information there, especially Latest and Greatest Safety Thread. REQUIRED READING!

 

[Monofletch]

Thanks for all the info. I'll do so reading.

 

[Yo Mama]

Kabar Kukri all the way, they come razor sharp, and last forever.

 

[Karda]

Is there a preferred size or length to look for?

There is no real "one size fits all" khukuri. Larger users will likely prefer and be able to use larger heavier khukuri while smaller users will likely prefer smaller lighter khukuri. It also depends on what tasks you plan to use it for. For chopping purposes, generally speaking, going below 15" sacrifices chopping ability and above 18" sacrifices portability for most people. A lighter khukuri will lack mass to propel the blade for chopping while a heavier khukuri may tire the user more. Most people seem to prefer a khukuri in the 26oz-32oz weight range.