San Mai 3 vs Sk-5

[AdamHnetka]

I have been looking at a Ghurka Kurki from CS to take on longer camping trips, and I see they are offering it in San Mai 3 steel. Do you guys think it is worth the extra cost vs the Sk-5 version? Edge retention, etc? Knifecenter lists the San Mai 3 version at $325, and the Sk-5 version at $87. Just wondering what you guys thought.

 

[ashtxsniper]

Nope I have a SK5 Gurka Kukri and it is well worth money but the San Mai III version is way overpriced. I would get the San Mai III version if it was around $180.

 

[knarfeng]

If you absolutely MUST have a stainless version because of your usage environment, maybe the San Mai III is worth it.

If you can live with non-stainless, that would be my choice.

 

[Bigfattyt]

I have had one of the bowies in san mai for about 6+ years, and it is a good choice for low maintenance (I got it for $150.....yea close out at the sporting goods store). I would not hesitate to spend 150 on a san mai Ghurka Kukri, but I think the price is too steep at 300+. I have been eying the carbon steel version for a long time (I wish I had jumped on a 2 for 100 deal I saw one time on carbon V ones, but I missed out by a little bit). If you can care for the carbon steel version, just buy that one.