Thinking of getting a Gelbu Special now 18 or 21 inch?

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kazushi

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Jul 25, 2011
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I really want to try out a Khukuri. I was originally going to go with an M43 w wood handle but they don't have any in stock that are wood. The Gelbu Special is spoken highly of as a good all around knife for camp use and weapon. I had a 16 inch khukuri that I got from ebay form like Khukuri House or EGKh I cant remember which one they change names all the time. I thought it was ok but kind of small. Would the 21 inch model be too big for attaching to your belt for hiking around the mountains? What weight is typical or desirable for an 18 inch model?
 
kazushi said:
I really want to try out a Khukuri. I was originally going to go with an M43 w wood handle but they don't have any in stock that are wood. The Gelbu Special is spoken highly of as a good all around knife for camp use and weapon. I had a 16 inch khukuri that I got from ebay form like Khukuri House or EGKh I cant remember which one they change names all the time. I thought it was ok but kind of small. Would the 21 inch model be too big for attaching to your belt for hiking around the mountains? What weight is typical or desirable for an 18 inch model?
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Good choice. As for length:

I have a 21 inch Chainpuri whose overall blade profile is close to that of a Gelbu Special, probably a little slimmer. Mine weighs 28 oz, but the weight is going to depend a lot on which kami makes the blade, and maybe on which chunk of steel he picks up to start. You should ask Yangdu about the weight before deciding on any HI khukuri. She always posts length and weight in the DOTDs.

The 28 oz weight is ok in the hand, but I wouldn't want to attach it to my belt because the length would be awkward in that position. If you're 6' or taller a belt carry might be ok, but you can hang a long khukuri from a shoulder strap or attach it to a backpack. In general I think that weight is more important than length, and that it depends heavily on the size and strength of the individual.

Whatever you choose, please post photos.

-- Dave
 
Ok Im 5 ft 8 200lbs pretty good shape, Im strong for my size but not 6 ft 6 275lbs ripped. I run, lift weights, hike, wrestle, kickbox. I was in 82nd airborne div infantry for almost 8 years and am used to carrying a heavy pack and stuff. Is a 18 inch ok for a guy like me? Would 21 inch be too long for a person as short as I am? I am stronger than average but am short.
 
I'm 5 7 and I got a 20 inch khuk and at that length it's still fine for belt carry for me :)

If you are stronger than average then go for longer, it's a waste for you to use a small khuk when you can probably handle a large one :)
 
@cotherion what model of khukuri do you have that is 20 inches? How much does it weigh?
 
Kazushi,

Go for 21". Extra 3" makes you a happier Gorkhali!
With Gelbu you got an all-rounder who surprises you everytime you down to next task.
 
Khukuri House 3 Chirra, McCurdy kukri, HI ASTK and couple others.

I feel that as long as the balance is suitable, weight is manageable (max around 36 for me) and edge bites well then I'm happy :)
 
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