"Hirang"
-A contemporary take on a classic kalupkop balisong design.
"Kalupkop" n. overlay; inlay; metal hoop or frame; metal cap
Hirang is a 33.5 cm balisong project is a custom build that aspires to design and build a semi-slim type balisong with a blade made out of a repurposed "kikil" (file) with a "Kalupkop" handle construction.
This build is all about the challenge of giving a contemporary approach to the classic balisong design "kalupkop", a balisong handle scale construction wherein the handle scale material, usually made out of wood, bone, and horn is held in place by a strip of metal overlay, making it less likely to come off like common issues in rivetted scales construction.
What I have come up with is a slim 15 cm classic debuyod-inspired kikil "file" blade profile leaving the teeth visible to add up the character to the piece, The handle is made of stainless housing with brass bolsters and with a century-old Narra for the scales, held in place by brass plate "kalupkop" rivetted with hollow brass tubes with bone inserts, and a stainless L-type latch adorned with bone inserts.
The outcome is a simple yet elegant 33.5 cm balisong that reminds me of the Batangas-made kalupkop debuyod balisong given to me as a gift that inspires me to be a balisong maker in the first place.
This project also aims to remind the balisong-loving community as well as the traditional makers to look back and appreciate once again the beauty of the classic balisong designs and at the same time embrace the evolution of the balisong knife designs being brought to us by the present-day artisans who deserve equal respect and support as well.