Manakamana info needed

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Aug 16, 2014
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I was wondering if anyone knew anything or had any information about the Manakamana? I would like to know its primary role and maybe a little history on it. I inquired about one yesterday to Auntie and amazingly she had one available. It is now in transit and I am very excited about the latest addition to my collection. Any info on its history or use would be much appreciated.

I received the HI wakizashi last week but haven't had time to post pictures. I am on vacation next week :D (first week off in a year!) I will be sure to post pictures of the wakizashi and the Manakamana. The wakizashi has been in my hands all week. It is amazingly fast and agile, I will take and take some nice photos of it and post asap.

I actually talked the wife into go on a hike with me next week and taking a little iPhone video of some kukris in action. I plan on bring two of them on the hike and trying them out to see how they function. I will bring my KLUVK and perhaps the ASTK or AK for testing.

Manakamana info anyone lol?
 
Here's the thread that explains it:
http://www.bladeforums.com/forums/showthread.php/941298-The-Legend-of-Manakamana-The-Temple-Visits

From that thread, this post from Auntie about the origin of this knife model:

Manakamana Special

I am delighted that all you forumites are enjoying the photos.
You could tell by the Kami's big smiles that they were having the time
of their lives.

On the front of the bus photo you can see the crossed Khukuris as
a sample of what the Kamis are making for a special surprise for you.
They are making only 5 special Khurkuris, called Manakamana Special.

The shipment of these 5 very special Khurkuris will arrive in May. If any
of you want to reserve one of the Manakamana Special knives, now would
be the time to do it. There are only 5 Specials...that's all!

So the Manakamana Special knives originated as a special model that the kamis came up with, presumably with exceptional quality throughout, as appreciation to HI customers (as a result of this company-sponsored journey to Manakamana temple).
 
I have one from the first run of these knives. In some ways it's like a Sirupati on steroids, and very beautiful with the four-pin handle. I recall when I first held it, feeling that it has the best qualities and design elements of several different models. I can't think of anything you can't do with this knife, except maybe whittle tiny objects.

This one is 17.5" OAL and 28 oz. The handle is one of the best pieces of satisal wood I have seen, almost like a dark colored marble.

View attachment 492333
 
Thanks for the information. I just got done measuring it, 17.5in 23oz. I have horn on my handle which has some nice grain going on. Mine seems to be built a little lighter than yours, the blade shape is more sirupati than anything else but the spine is pretty wide. The blade tapers nicely from the spine to the edge with an ever so slight hollow forge going on. It has a villager finish and four pins. It reminds me of my 17.5in 30oz ASTK but much faster. It is probably the best combo worker and fighter... Even more so than my 18 WWII. The handle on mine has a nice curve and shape. I am really impressed with this kukri. It is a welcomed addition to my collection... Pictures coming soon
 
I also have a manakama, and I think its just a great knife, the lines are pleasing and it is one of my targets for "fancification" in the tradition of bawanna and ndog
 
Awesome GB, That sounds like a great feeling knife you have there. I can't wait to see the pics. And Gehazi, we need a thread when you get started on that one. Or heck any of the "fancification" needs one of those WIP threads like Wildmanh has been doing with the sheath builds. So much good stuff deserves plenty of pictures.
 
definitely, I am working on getting my basement whipped into a craft shop; I have lots of metal working material ( lathes of various sizes and a good mill and grinder)but I am getting lapidary and woodworking equipment too-- I shall craaaaft
 
I also have a manakama, and I think its just a great knife, the lines are pleasing and it is one of my targets for "fancification" in the tradition of bawanna and ndog
Yeewww! Dont make it look like me! At least it wont have hair on it...and it'll be shiny on top:D My kingdom for a lathe and mill. Lapidary is fun and expensive. I srewed up plenty of Honduran black opal. Cantina check....ooops ok back to manakamana...
 
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