new GH chakma: does form change the function?

Lt. Dan · Aug 20, 2000

The old style of chakma has always suited me just fine, but it seems that I'm bound to get some new khukuris that will have the new chakma with the cho.

Since some surface area is lost to the cutout, is there any loss of function when using the chakma to reform the blade edge? Is the distal end only used, and the area near the handle where the little cho is of no use? Or does nobody use this tool anyway?

Is the new cho traditional, or have I just not seen enough old chakmas?

Craig Gottlieb · Aug 21, 2000

The new design doesn't change function, except that I did see TB use the cho area of the chakmak to sharpen with. The cho-sharpening method adds a degree of safety, as the chakmak isn't as likely to slip down off the blade and threaten your fingers.

As for the antiquity of the design, it is commonly found on the Gangawal, which is a more traditional khukuri. But as for actual historical roots, you'll have to ask Berkley.

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Craig Gottlieb
Gurkha House
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Lt. Dan · Aug 21, 2000

How did TB use the cho on the chakma to sharpen the khukuri?

I was secretly a little bit afraid that the new chakma design is, in fact traditional...especially on the Gangawal. I wouldn't mind having a rosewood handled SN1-style blade, and all the tools and pointless scabbard (sorry for that 2/3 pun) are nifty, too.

Aren't the tools also a traditional thing? Awww, Craig, I kinda wish you hadn't offered this Gangawal model--it's got it ALL goin' on!

I'd really appreciate it if SOMEBODY OUT THERE WOULD DISCUSS THE EVOLUTION OF THE CHO, also some info on the cho on the chakma would be excellent!

Is Berkley, and/or anybody else out htere?

[This message has been edited by Lt. Dan (edited 08-21-2000).]

[This message has been edited by Lt. Dan (edited 08-23-2000).]