Back in February, I decided to take the plunge and get myself a BirGhorka Kothimoda. I figured this would be a most interesting addition to my growing mass of khukuris.
Specifications are as outlined on the Himalayan Imports Website and pix of this khukuri and scabbard are available in the thread "Kothimoda Pics"
A word of advice to anyone thinking of importing this khukuri from the USA: Be sure to have this khukuri thoroughly documented as Customs will think that it is too good as it was in my case. Specifically, the cured waterbuffalo shin bone used in the handle and on the karda and chakma look very much like ivory. The silver work on the scabbard should also be documented(7 ounces or about 200 grams for the metrically inclined.)
My initial impressions of this khukuri:
The first thing you notice about this khukuri is the excellent silverwork done on the scabbard. Comparing the designs on Chetchat's and Berk's kothimoda's I see that while the same general designs are used, each has small differences to make it a unique, one of a kind work. It would be interesting to have all three together to compare notes and work quality. Biased I may be, but I think each kothimoda owner thinks they have the best kothimoda and I would agree.
On to the khukuri, the blade is a dui chirra , fully up to the standards HI clients expect from Bura. Silver Bolster and buttcap are well done. The handle, being made of cured domestic Water Buffalo shin bone, is very nicely done and comes close to looking like ivory. This is what got me into difficulties with Canadian customs.
Handling this khukuri, it can certainly be used in an emergency if need be and will do a good job. Balance is excellent for me. I am almost tempted to go to the nearest woodpile and check out the chopping, but since the cutting reputation of Himalayan Imports khukuris is known world wide, will pass on this.
Karda and chakma are a bit small by HI standards, but are good quality.
Overall, I would rate this as a very good collector khukuri I am quite satisfied with.
In short, if you are looking for a very unique piece to add to your knife collection, this is certainly one to consider.
Please convey my thanks to Bura, the many artisans involved with this khukuri, Himalayan Imports, and Uncle Bill for making this all possible.
Harry
[This message has been edited by Kozak (edited 06-23-2000).]
Specifications are as outlined on the Himalayan Imports Website and pix of this khukuri and scabbard are available in the thread "Kothimoda Pics"
A word of advice to anyone thinking of importing this khukuri from the USA: Be sure to have this khukuri thoroughly documented as Customs will think that it is too good as it was in my case. Specifically, the cured waterbuffalo shin bone used in the handle and on the karda and chakma look very much like ivory. The silver work on the scabbard should also be documented(7 ounces or about 200 grams for the metrically inclined.)
My initial impressions of this khukuri:
The first thing you notice about this khukuri is the excellent silverwork done on the scabbard. Comparing the designs on Chetchat's and Berk's kothimoda's I see that while the same general designs are used, each has small differences to make it a unique, one of a kind work. It would be interesting to have all three together to compare notes and work quality. Biased I may be, but I think each kothimoda owner thinks they have the best kothimoda and I would agree.
On to the khukuri, the blade is a dui chirra , fully up to the standards HI clients expect from Bura. Silver Bolster and buttcap are well done. The handle, being made of cured domestic Water Buffalo shin bone, is very nicely done and comes close to looking like ivory. This is what got me into difficulties with Canadian customs.
Handling this khukuri, it can certainly be used in an emergency if need be and will do a good job. Balance is excellent for me. I am almost tempted to go to the nearest woodpile and check out the chopping, but since the cutting reputation of Himalayan Imports khukuris is known world wide, will pass on this.
Karda and chakma are a bit small by HI standards, but are good quality.
Overall, I would rate this as a very good collector khukuri I am quite satisfied with.
In short, if you are looking for a very unique piece to add to your knife collection, this is certainly one to consider.
Please convey my thanks to Bura, the many artisans involved with this khukuri, Himalayan Imports, and Uncle Bill for making this all possible.
Harry
[This message has been edited by Kozak (edited 06-23-2000).]
