We just have to ignore the haters and 8 year olds. But you get a thumbs up Timber Wolf for your wisdom. If everyone was the same in their like and dislikes this would be a dull world.

This video is a few years old now but thanks for this. Very helpful for a neophyte soon-to-be-kukri-owner. I've ordered 2 HI kukris and 4 Tora now :)

@sweetcostarica

7 жыл бұрын

They are fun & useful. Stay frosty.

@redfaux74

Жыл бұрын

You really should buy a Cold Steel steel Kukri. I have many Kukri, from many places around the globe. None compare to Cold Steel. Not even close. You'll see what I mean if you ever get one.

@bback74

Жыл бұрын

@@redfaux74 Thanks for the suggestion. I have several knives from Cold Steel and happy with them all. Not a kukri from them though. Was eying the G. Kukri in 3V a few years ago but it was a bit expensive - and even more so these days.

Thanks for the great video. I was looking for a fair, rational assesment of both manufacturers. I had made a decision, but your video just cemented that decision

Great overview, thank you for sharing your impressions on this beautiful tool

Thanks for sharing your knowledge and experience with these knives. I’ve only recently have found interest and this video was very helpful!

Thanks for all your kukuri videos. Based on viewing several, I waited to purchase two HI models, being careful to select ones under 2 pounds. Specifically, I purchased a sirupate much like your example and a double fuller model that was an ounce lighter. I also own several antique examples to which I will eventually compare them. I'm still putting an edge on them, but some testing reveals these will perform as awesome tools.

Nice video. I've had my HI blades for close to 15 years and I still love them. I never knew about Tora blades so thanks for that info.

Thanks for commenting Timber Wolf and I agree with you. As I study the Kukri I never see Kami marks on antique Kukri. Tora Blades used them in the past & they were almost a "signature" of a Tora Blades Kukri but Tora stopped this practice for that authenticity. Military Kukri have the manufacturer and type of blade, etc. on the spine and on the side sometimes though. As in the video above I chuckled a little because I wasn't sure what to say about them. They are cute though.

Hey Sweet, thank you for another informed comparison :-)

Nice Vid. My Dad (British Army) was head of the nepalese reg for a couple of years so I have fond memories sitting down to tea with the Nepalese major and his mother (who burped gratitude as is there custom which confused my mother). For your information ‘Serpa’ is pronounced ‘Shur-pa’ (meaning mountain guide) of whom my father also had the pleasure of being toured on a Napal mountain trek when he went some years after to visit his Major friend. A very respectful culture!

Your last comment, about discretion, excellent advice!

Totally agree! Thanks for your review man ;)

Must watch more kukri videos i love them so much.

Very informative. Well done!

sir you are very knowledgeable and you have an amazing collection of khukri . regards from india

@sirupate Good advice. I corrected this in the video now. Also, in future will compare apples to apples, oranges to oranges, etc. Thanks for your kind words.

The thing I notice about Tora's knives is that they may be lighter or thinner in some ways but still have the same capabilities and can withstand a beating. Simon tested one of Tora's kukris on a nail and there was no edge damage if that can tell us anything.

I have the HI Ang Khola and a Tora WW1 replica. I bought the HI intending to use it, but once I saw it I knew it would never see the sun outside the windows. It was too beautiful. My grandsons love them and they always want to see and hold them. As for use I stick with my Fiskars hatchet and Becker BK2. 😆

Hey so I've been looking at Toras site and everything is listed out of stock, and the mentioned lead times are very far out. As far as HI goes which of their blades would you say are accurate? Or which do you recommend as far as good options? Thanks.

Great Video..I just bought a sheepsfoot "one off'" H-Imports utility knife,awaiting now in mail.For EDC..Neat how different Kami could make your blade.Rajendra kami made this knife coming.Nice bunch there,Cheers!!l

A General reply to Shoateel: Please keep your opinions civil Shoateel. Note: All kukris made in Nepal are made by hand and machine in a factory. Whether it is mass produced or made by skillful traditional Kamis depends on the company. Whether the kukri is good depends on what the Nepalis actual use themselves (that means is it an effective knife for work & fighting) and by the buyers personal preference (his likes). *Kukri Companies by rank* (best (1) worst (4): 1. Tora Blades (replica kukris from history) 2. Himalayan Imports (their own models/non-traditional) 3. Khukuri Houses (KHHI, EGKH, etc.) 4. All the Others (non-Khukuri Houses)

@SoldierAndrew

9 жыл бұрын

.

@sweetcostarica

9 жыл бұрын

Soldier Andrew Tora Blades is trying something new by sending their Kukris to the customer directly from Nepal. In the past the big knives where sent 1st to Simon Hengle in England and he would inspect & send them out to you. So I don't know how long it takes to get your Tora now. Taxes and/or Export-Import fees are usually around $30 USD for all kukris leaving Nepal.

@SoldierAndrew

9 жыл бұрын

.

@sweetcostarica

9 жыл бұрын

Soldier Andrew The $30 USD Tax/Export-Import fee IS expensive. But most, if not all overseas kukri makers charge this fee to buyers (see ebay sellers). Some may just call it a shipping fee but it is one of the painful aspects of getting an in-country handmade item. At the time of buying the company/seller will charge you all the frees and get your payment. You can check ebay for private kukri sellers in the US. I have bought kukris cheaper & gotten them faster that way. But of course the risk is: "can you trust them". They are not a real business so there is a chance taken (stolen, damaged, bait & switch, etc.).

@yurisierra9030

8 жыл бұрын

Thanks for the video, i liked it a lot!

Knowing the history of something is of benefit and personally I love history. But ryc3rz you are so correct in that the end product (how good it works) is whats really important.

Fine video thank you for posting it

nice video

I agree with you 100%. Also other traditional big blades of the world (Bolo, Parang, Panga, Latin Machete, etc.) weight on average 500/600 grams (a little over or under a pound). I think the problem is most Westerners have for gotten what a good knife is. We live in the city & only use a knife for fun or to show it off. We don't use it everyday, all day like a native for their livelihood and/or survival. That's why I love the traditional knives. They have a great track recorded of working well.

Great video, helped me make up my mind, I'm going with tora I think, thanks.

@sweetcostarica

9 жыл бұрын

My pleasure. You will not be disappointed but will be surprise at the different between a real kukri & a tourist/export type. Merry Tora Christmas!

@johnmirra6707

9 жыл бұрын

sweetcostarica I actually have a touristy Khukri house Khukri under my tree as we speak haha, but my tora will go next to it I swear.

@johnmirra6707

9 жыл бұрын

Shoateel Yeah I would love that and on a later date I definitely will but right now it's a little too pricey.

You have love for the khukri. FYI have a look at Atlantic Cutlery dot they used to have surplus khukris from late 1800's thru WW2. Traditional Filipino Weapons dot makes a high quality khukri offering also.

This was kukri heaven

What I prefer about Tora Blades Kukuri, aside from accurate weight & specs, is that their Kukuri which some include a chakmak & karda come in a very functional size rather than the tiny symbolic versions that come with the kukri house versions.

I really like the Sirupate too. It looks good and the longer reach is very useful. It's a honor that you being Nepali liked my video. Take care and God bless.

@pratiklimz622

4 жыл бұрын

Cold steel did good work...that sirupate is quite small...sirupate is used to cut big animals like buffaloes....but it's nice to see you liked it..good for Bushcrafting....that Indian and thai one is badly build...respect from Nepal🇳🇵

Any idea where i can get a light, narrow bladed Kukri about a 7-ish inch blade (maybe a bit smaller) i want a rat tail tang with a end bolster. And traditionally styled! I'm having trouble finding something that i like, that isn't too thick. Thanks

O very nice khukri

Thanks. I like Khukuris best but Parangs are good too. I try to get working Kukris though. There are tourist ones that are too heavy and not practical using for any real length of time. Tora Blades and some models of Himalayan Imports seem to be the best realistic Kukris on the market.

Where did you get the Serpa Kukuri with sirupata blade?

I own 2 Tora blades khukri , they are both exceptional in every aspect so my vote is on Tora blades.

You are talking about the Kami's marks and other markings, right. Actually, Tora Blades did this a while back and it was seen as a trademark of that company. Tora stopped this practice and now only Himalayan Imports add marking on almost all of their blades. A few Khukuri Houses add markings on certain Kukris too.

You are correct I have been trying to buy a used Busse/Scrap Yard Dog for years now. I have all but given up on the goal. My problem is their retail prices. 1st I'm cheap and I do not want to spend $250 to $700 USD on Busse knife. 2nd If I lose it or get it stolen at a lodge, at home or somewhere I would be very mad for a long, long time. The TTKZ and KZ2 are great knives though Al g Blenny but I'll stick with my Kukris and Moras.

I have only general knowledge of this curved forward guard less sabre. It's an old Ottoman Turkey weapon similar to the Falcata, or Greek Kopis as stated on Wikipedia. Unfortunately this blade doesn't really go with the all round use of the topic knife. The Yatagan is mainly a weapon of war and would scare most folks if taken outside the home. That being said thanks for the link and comment.

I love the kukri! I think the story behind it makes it legendary! lol

No problem, that's your right. Enjoy you day.

Sirupate is my favorite- proud to be a nepali. Thanks for the honest review!

Well, thank you, SCR. :D I have to say this so people know that the adults around here get along despite the 8 year olds getting loose on Mommy's computer. You know I just got a KHHI Beast, and I love it. I'll probably have 12+ KHHI khuks by the time I'm done, so we'll see where it ranks in the collection. I know you love you some Tora, and that's cool, too. I can dig it. So, yeah, bro. Let's go out and do our thing with our favorite brands. We can rib each other about it later. :D

Have you looked at the offerings from Condor Knives? They have two (2) styles: one is pretty standard, but it has too sharp an angle for my tastes (I prefer the Sirupati), and they have a second one of traditional overall dimensions with a less extreme angle. Both look like good khukris, and I am buying the second style soon to try out. I am also waiting for my wholesaler to have the Hanshu Boshin Khukri in D2 tool steel back in stock (these are sold under the United Cutlery brand). The blade looks pretty good, but the handle is definitely not traditional. I have several of the Boshin series, and many of them have a similar handle geometry, and all have a modern material for their handles.

@sweetcostarica

Жыл бұрын

CONDOR knives are not a traditional kukri maker. Most if not all of their products are _kukri-like_ or _bowie style_ or _parang-ish_ etc. They are also thicker & heavier than traditional South East Asian knives lacking the good balance of these historic SE Asian knives 👍. I could go on covering differently heated steel, spring steel, Western full-tang vs Eastern stick/hidden tang, thicker edge of the condors vs thinner edge of traditional knives, how to use (almost martal arts style) traditional knives vs the Western (heavy handed ✋️) way, etc., etc. But I will just say no I will not use and pass on the El Salvador Condor Tool and Knife.

Hi, I’m just using my Khukuri to butter my bread, no bad intentions, just bad choices.😂 If I took a Khukuri anywhere but out bush, I’d be locked up. We have strict knife laws. They do make great camping knives. I’ve chopped down many standing dead trees with my 13” Khukuris. You have some nice ones.

I would suggest checking out the Busse TTKZ or KZ2 if you want a Khukuri that will last forever. Much better design and construction than the Cold Steel one. Harder to find though.

very good review, although im still struggling between CS and HI kukri. really wish I can have both

@sweetcostarica

8 жыл бұрын

+Li Evan For the type of kukri you're thinking about: - if you want a common military *21 to 22 ounce weighted kukri go with the Cold Steel Gurkha Kukri. - If you want around a 28 to 32 ounce heavier kukri then go with the Himalayan Imports (HI) brand. They both cost the same at the end of the day but the HI will probably take a while to get due to the 2015 Nepal Earthquake.

@evanli608

8 жыл бұрын

+sweetcostarica I heard the Nepal made kukri have inconsistent quanlity. some has edge poorly quenched and handle problem. have notice these issue before?

@sweetcostarica

8 жыл бұрын

+Li Evan Not all Nepali kukri makers are the same. Just like anywhere in the World you have low end & high end companies. You have business that want to make money only and better ones that want to produce a good product for money. Theres a big difference which takes research on our part to find the best kukri for our needs (or wants). The best Nepali companies that have a reputation for good heat treating are Himalayan Imports & Tora Blades period. Poor heat treating & handle problems happen much more frequently with Khukuri House & the lesser kukri companies. The best non-Nepali companies that have good heat treating are Cold Steel & Ontario. Both have great Nepali styled kukris.

@enigma.b9

8 жыл бұрын

+Li Evan - I personally have both a CS Khukuri and a couple HI khukuris. My personal input: I prefer HI for the fit and finish and as dorky as it sounds Im a sucker for a great blade with a mirror polish on it. Both of these khukuris have been put to the test by myself and several of my friends and overall I would say that they both will chop down 50-70ft trees no problem. I have taken down about 8-10 with my Chiruwa Ang Khola and maybe even more with my CS. I would recommend either but it ultimately comes down to if you prefer the manufactured look of the khukuri or if you prefer a more classic style. Either way you wont regret your decision. But as most knife guys say "youll eventually buy both" lol.

Which is the best tora ,sripute ,British army service , Ankola

I don't think so. It is a large heavy blade (about 2 1/2) but it is from Nepal. Not an export. There's a lot of reviews out there and I have yet to find any that say anything bad about it and personally, I love it. It went though a large tree branch pretty easily.

I absolutely understand (and agree with) the idea behind patent laws, BUT can all of you imagine what amazing stuff we would get if patents were annulled for,say, a year? All these amazing cars,guns, electronics made almost perfect by combining the best ideas from each manufacturer- it would be great!

sirupate is my fav.slim,lightweight and very sharp

@sweetcostarica

7 жыл бұрын

The suripate is hard not to love. Great design that favored by Gurkhas today for their lightweight characteristics & their reach/longer length. I like them mainly for their beauty.

Torah is an importer, Himalayan Imports actually has their own kami's

hey sweetcostarica tell me about that 13″ Iraqi Ankhola Kukri Knife- Horn Handle i see in the video

@shaunevansusmc

7 жыл бұрын

its the one with the hilt

I'd be interested in a video on how to use that little tool to sharpen a kukri. I also wonder whether someone makes a scabbard for Tora blades without the sharpener or small knife. If I'm going somewhere and just want to carry the kukri, I'd like being able to put it in a different scabbard and go.

@sweetcostarica

7 жыл бұрын

"...how to use that little tool to sharpen a kukri": *Use of the Chakmak on a Tora kukri* - kzread.info/dash/bejne/oH6drMSocbbIgMo.html "...a scabbard for Tora blades without the sharpener or small knife" *Tora KTM Fort William Hollow Forged MK1* (does not come with chakmak and karda) *Tora Mk2 Kukri* (does not come with chakmak and karda) *Tora Goorkha Army Kukri* (does not come with chakmak and karda) *Tora British Service Issue circa 1970* (does not come with chakmak and karda) etc. No one makes a scabbard for Tora blades without the sharpener or small knife *"independent"* of Tora Blades. If you want a scabbard without sharpener or small knife you have to buy a kukri (like the ones above) that do not have them in the original design of the kukri. Please contact Tora Blades directly for precise information & up-to-date on their kukris.

@VTPSTTU

7 жыл бұрын

Thanks, I'll keep these things in mind. Part of my problem with the chakmak and karda is that I'm afraid of them falling from the scabbard during normal activities.

@sweetcostarica

7 жыл бұрын

Myself & most Westerners don't use the chakmak and karda (sharpener and small knife) that comes with most kukris. They are really too small for our larger hands & there are more useful & more effective tools that you probably already have like: - a $10 USD Mora is a great small replaceable karda - ceramic rods are great for sharpening knives - inexpensive carbide sharpener are excellent for chakmak duties - and so on This advice is just what most folks do. If you still want to have a more secure place for your traditional chakmak and karda, again check with the manufacturer of Tora's and he'll give you some pro tips.

Actually ryc3rc that is why we have the "Patent law" i.e. to encourage development of new ideas and to improve pre-existing ones. It's really a law of patents in a legal framework that establishes the patent system which supports and encourages technological innovation and promotes economic development by offering recognition and monetary rewards.

Thank you very much sweetcostarica! I forgot to sub you once, but after this vid i had to :D You give very good content and try to be precise and unbiased, and also you do have a large collection and knowledge, i am gonna dig as many videos of you, as i can - so i don't annoy you with questions you already adressed. *This is gonna be a bit long to read, but i please you to answer. It may sound childish, basically i search for the toughest, and most powerful chopping blade i can still wield for not too long periods, and which is comfortable at the handle* (i am yet not too strong but i will change that in time) I guess it will be more of a functional collector piece but if it works well i'll give it to a friend who does woodworking. *I just would be happy to know what you think and maybe give me a tip about what sort of Kukri i plan to buy, and my customising plan:* - a very *front heavy* one (and at least probably 1200 grams or better 1500 to 1700g heavy) - *at least 15" blade length* preferrably 18 to 20" i think i'll get more powerful chopping with length is that true? - i am gonna use it for mid sized trees or other tasks, just to see how it compares to axes (the big trees will still be cut with a chainsaw) - i think i need *at least 10mm blade thickness* for higher mass and abuse so the blade doesnt break where the ricasso/cho would be because of the huge mass of the blade - it *absolutely must have a full tang Kukri, no tapering!* because i am gonna really test it to the extremes, and also so i can change handle scales - a *good handle tang thickness*, because i have seen cold steel kukris (even san mai) which broke at the handle - *no capping by a screwed/welded/sticked on plate*, (even if full tang) which i am sure i'll manage to break and those always have the traditional uncomfortable handle form - i *plan to custom make a handle with "black lava flow kirinite"* which i will form to a more comfortable and useful handle fit to my hand and with no hardspots (the upper swedge of traditional ones can be uncomfortable and i think standard traditional ones are too bulky for small Hands, especially with bigger models) - a *(partial) finger guard* like those KHHI american eagle ones have (but their pommel is not full tang) would be nice too - i will definitely exchange the leather scabbard to i guess a *kydex selfmade sheath* if you don't persuade me of sth else ^^ I guess i'll have to stick to those companies, that also send finished blank blades as an option (makes custom handle easier, i only have to drill holes and can place them where i want) but then i'll have no finger guard :/ I know that HI and Toras are the finest, but i don't see a modern handle, full tang (riveted) or a finger guard there :( (there's still the HI custom option but i don't know if i can order such a kukri there with all my wishes) So far i found for the *KHHI Part the 15" Defender Model* which only misses the finger guard, but there's a small safety extension in the handle design. They also can deliver a blank finished blade so i don't have to dismantle the handle, if it's too hard to hit the rivets out and scratch the glued handles away? But then i'll prefer 18" Kukris, they're heavier and more massive. So *at the moment i am drawn to EGKH*, the sortiment is huge, i see longer full tang blades, but still am not through it; also they specifically write the HRC on each blade part, so they quality control it i guess ( 5160 tempers pretty even if you don't intend to differ it, as afar as i know) There's more info on the Blade at EGKH and also as with KHHI an option to design your own knife (partially) But i don't know if they do offer a blank without handle like KHHI... *if you know a specific model that fits most criteria i'd very much appreciate that.* Also i'd like to know if you think/know that thicker blades worsen the chopping in kukris, but as far as i am concerned, like with a good chopping Axe you need a faster thickening blade that pushes material away when penetrating. I still need to buy the materials and the tools and watching more DIY videos on custom made Handles and Kydex sheath making. *Thank you in advance and sorry for this extensive plea.*

@sweetcostarica

8 жыл бұрын

+Dani B. Sorry, I've never heard of traditional Nepalis making or using such a large and heavy blade and using it for serious work. Maybe the ceremonial sacrificial beheading blades but those are for animals. The 150 years old military blades of the past might work but no one makes them anymore. Plus both the ceremonial sacrificial beheading kukris & the military ones are all *hidden tangs.* As you view all my videos you we see I am a traditionalist user of the kukri. That means I use kukris that a Nepali farmer would really use or a Gurkha would use as a tool. In Nepal the traditional kukri is not used to cut/chop anything larger than a normal sized arm and this is rare to cut/chop something arm sized. Q: What do the Nepalis & Gurkhas use to cut/chop larger than arm size? A: An Axe. Wish I could help Dani B but the only folks that would make non-traditional kukris of such huge proportions would be the Khukuri Houses and other tourist shops in the commercial neighborhood of Thamel. Please contact them. I am sure they will be happy to custom make your kukri for the right price. God Bless.

@HalloVasallo

8 жыл бұрын

sweetcostarica Thank you very much! I respect the attention to the detail keeping traditional craftsmanship alive and admire it. The traditional hidden tang, i observed it is the most common and i first wondered why, since, if the handle breaks either by impact or water etc. for someone like me it would be easier to exchange it with slabs, but it seems the kamis etc. are accustomed to those stick on Handles since centuries, and if it is time proven, well no need to change it. Maybe i am just paranoid of hidden tangs, but maybe they absorb shock better? I guess for many people the full tang is just the western way, who often think they know everything better than "less developed" countries/cultures (though the official british Gurkha Regiment Kukris were and now still are mostly hidden tang). But mostly it is because of my wish to customise the handle especially to get a different shape and this lovely Lava Kirinite ^^ I also wondered, since there are very big Kukris with riveted full tang advertised in the Kukri Houses Farmer section, but then again they don't focus on tradition. Yeah i've read that the Nepalis also use Axes or chainsaws for bigger tasks, but i played with the thought to have a blade that matches a big axe and is more versatile, still comfortable and more beautiful, and rare or unique by customisation, ya know, just for fun :) I always look at the Descriptions and i stop at the weight where the Kukris were intended for Sacrificial tasks, that was at about 1600g and 17/18" if i remeber correctly. When you refer to "larger than arm size" do you mean the forearm? Because that would be completely sufficient and satisfying :) So i guess a front heavy 15" blade Kukri will do it and maybe also fit better in a Backpack etc. Yeah, i think at a point where i gained enough knowledge i will contact them and see if they can make a custom blank so i can still be proud of making the handle myself :D. I will show you the end result, i promise, idk when i can start this project, but i hope as soon as possible. I am very happy, that you responded, thank you again! Take care and keep on what you do :)

haven't u been in Nepal ? in each and every house we've got atleast 2 or more khukuris. feels so gd to hear our Nepali khukuris are so famous.

The Cold Steel is a good blade, but I just cannot get used to the Kraton handle, this is not an indictment just personal thing for me I would not be at all surprised if someone felt the opposite way . I agree with chipoftheundead that the 'Westernised Khukuri' is not necessarily a bad thing, the smiths are still using the same skills but producing a slightly different product that someone is paying for, just how its always been.

What's your opinion on Condor Heavy Duty Kukri? I am curious ;-) Also, are the Tora and H.I. full tang?

@sweetcostarica

7 жыл бұрын

If you study history & the traditional kukri used today in Nepal you will find some very clear clues on the difference between what the Condor Heavy Duty Kukri is as compared to a real Nepali kukri/khukuri. But *my opinion* on Condor Heavy Duty Kukri is that it is overweight, overly thick, and too short. EDIT: I have no idea what steel they use or more importantly their heat treating but this "kukri" isn't a kukri.

@KennethTinKinHung

7 жыл бұрын

Cool Thanks for the response! Much appreciated.

Thanks SCR, I appreciate all your time and the videos! Wondering your opinion (sorry for the length)... I'm in a crossroads with ordering from Tora or Hi. I want to use for self defense/martial arts and machete type work. First, wondering whats your opinion of the HI Kumar Kobra 20in weighing in at 20oz verses the Tora Jangala or Tora Sherpa Sirupate (20-21inches and around the same weight range varying up to almost 23oz)? Yet, I know you said your Tora Sirupate weighed 515 grams but on the Tora website the range for both say between 575g-650g. I would order the Tora Sirupate if I knew it would weigh the same as yours. I am thinking I need a blade that weighs around 16oz-20oz (448g-560g) for self defense/escrima. My ideal thoughts were I would order a Tora Jangala or Tora Sirupate for lighter stuff, and then order the HI 18" Gelbu Special weighing in at 640g (22.4oz) for camping and chopping. IF the Tora Sirupate weighs only 18.5oz, I would use that for self defense/martial arts and the HI Gelbu Special is thick enough but light enough to pack for backpacking. I plan to sometimes use and carry both as I see them as two different tools/weapons with the 4oz weight and thickness differences. Total weight of carrying both would be about 40oz or right over 2.5lbs. Wondering your thoughts as you are much more versed than my novice self!? (I know some might think this is redundant but 4oz variance in a self defense/fighting weapon IMO is significant).

@sweetcostarica

7 жыл бұрын

This is a hard one as the Himalayan Imports Kobra is lighter, narrower and a faster version of almost all of HI's kukris. A Tora Sirupate is just as light and narrow. So that really is a toss up as both are close in effectiveness. *Note:* A Gurkha just won a Military Cross fighting off insurgents with his sirupate that looks almost exactly like a Tora Kiranti Sirupate Kukri (500-575 grams). Please remember weights given out on HI's website are a very rough guideline. In most cases the kukri you buy from their main website weigh more than listed. It is hard to answer you because I use my kukri only for light to medium duty wood work where any 12 inch kukri can do. So I can not comment but both HI & Tora sirupates will work.

@kdkd8413

7 жыл бұрын

Thanks SCR for your response and info! It's settled, I'm going to go with the Tora Kiranti Sirupate. Maybe later I will get the HI Gelbu Special for camping only. Final question, if you had to defend yourself would you rather have a Tora or an HI blade?

@sweetcostarica

7 жыл бұрын

Good choice going with the Kiranti sirupate as it is one of the most well rounded kukri I have owned & is easy to use. Here is the story of the Gurkha that fought off those insurgents (short version): "In 2014 Cpl Tuljung Gurung 1st Battalion The Royal Gurkha Rifles generously donated his damaged combat helmet and kukri to The Gurkha Museum. There follows the remarkable story surrounding Tuljung Gurung and these items and the award of THE MILITARY CROSS." "In the early hours of 22 March 2013 Rifleman Tuljung Gurung was on guard duty at the front gate sangar to Patrol Base Sparta, Lashkar Gah. At 3.45 am two insurgents conducted a close quarter attack on the Patrol Base and directly onto Tuljung Gurung’s sangar. Tuljung Gurung repelled this small arms and grenade attack and then fought the insurgents with his kukri fighting knife to prevent access to the Patrol Base. His actions adverted a potential significant loss of life." I am not into the Marital Arts part of the kukri world but it is possible in Alaska to need to grab a big knife for animal protection or against a crazed/violent person in the woods when your shotgun is not immediately accessible. If that was the case I would go with a battalion issue type kukri like the: - Tora WW Battalion kukri (approximately 570 grams) or the even better & more expensive - Tora KTM Kotli Loharan Battalion Kukri (475-550 grams) God Bless

@kdkd8413

7 жыл бұрын

Thanks SCR! I was just about to ask you if you recommend a battalion issue kukri instead of the sirupate for protection. Looks like you already answered it for me. I opt for the shotgun as first choice too, but like to grab a solid stick or a blade when necessary. Again, awesome info and recommendations, I was looking at the Kotli Loharan a couple weeks ago so now I think I will actually go back to that over the Kiranti sirupate (since a battalion issued blade seems the better option for self defense and the wilderness). And Great story about the Rifleman holding off insurgents! Thanks for sharing

@kdkd8413

7 жыл бұрын

Hey SCR, I tried to order the Kotli Loharan but website says out of stock. Do you recommend a comparable kukri from Tora? Sorry to bother, thanks!

Sorry. Just to make sure there's no misunderstanding, the khukuri house stuff is definitely more touristy but still really good quality. As to practicality; I'm personally fine with it but it may not be for everyone.

Would you recommend a wood handle or horn handle?

@sweetcostarica

7 жыл бұрын

Wood best for extreme weather conditions like the long very cold Alaskan winters. Horn is nice for anything but very cold weather. Beside the above either works well, it is a matter of your personal taste.

The best knife is the one you have with you. Use what you enjoy

I've tried many Khukuri House Kukris. I wish I could afford to try them all. Tora Blades and Himalayan Imports are reported to be the best because of their commitment to quality and traditional methods. Tora Blades especially is committed to exact weights and dimensions. I have heard about "The Beast" being an export/tourist model. It is reported to be very heavy and impractical for hiking, non-car camping, and all day chopping. Is this the same "The Beast" Kukri or another?

@dandetande288

4 жыл бұрын

You are full of sh!t man!! You are reviving alot of peolle!!! You should be put in jail for false advertising and defamation

part of the appeal of the kukri is that the kukri cards and chakmak are a full package for outdoor use. every kukri I have owned so far has let me down in the karda/chakmak department. I have yet to invest in a tora or HI knife. who provides the better package with an actually useful, utilitarian karda and chakmak?

@sweetcostarica

8 жыл бұрын

This is an easy question. I have owned original/antique, tourist types, & replica kukris. Even these have disappointing kardas & chakmaks. *Only Tora Blades have given me bigger, better, and useful kardas & chakmaks.* That being said I never use them due to much, much better pocket knives or Moras to use as the Karda and using a leather belts or a carbide knife sharpener as the chakmak.

@pathrst

8 жыл бұрын

+sweetcostarica I always have too. there have been a couple occasions, however, where the tools with the kukri were all I had. it was frustrating to have such inadequate tools. plus i love the romance of a one tool package.

nothing can replace the saw

I agree with you on Tora blades high quality! don't know much about HI but had a lot of KHHI khukuri. Don't know why but most people think that a khukuri to be effective must weight more than 1 kg. The true is that KHHI blades only for tourists and totally impractical in real use. A good khukuri around 10/12 inches must not weight more than 500/600 gr!

any thoughts on Khukuri's from Khukuri House Thamel Pvt Ltd? I now own the Kukri Cowboy, it has a 15 inch blade, and although its a bit heavy, that does not bother me in the least.

@sweetcostarica

8 жыл бұрын

+James Hart Hi James. From studies, forums, and the many kukris I have bought, I have ranked kukri companies sending blades overseas to the West in order here: *Kukri Companies by rank* (best (1), worst (4): 1. Tora Blades (replica kukris from history) 2. Himalayan Imports (their own models/mostly non-traditional) 3. Khukuri Houses (KHHI, EGKH, etc.) 4. All the Others (non-Khukuri Houses) This ranking is made by what company comes the closest to a real kukri. My definition of a real kukri is: *A kukri that is made in Nepal that a Nepali farmer, policeman, or soldier (Gurkhas too) would use.* This would be called a traditional kukri. This kind of kukri is very, very different compared to the Kukri Cowboy. Which an average Nepali could not afford anyway. The main trouble with the Khukuri Houses (including Thamel Pvt Ltd) kukris and also Himalayan Imports kukris that are made for the foreign market is: A) They are too heavy for anything other than chopping. Traditional kukris are for multi-purpose use. B) Most of these kukris are unbalanced & have awkward handles made by low skilled kamis. C) These unusual tourist designs are an embarrassment to the traditional kukri. This is my opinion from my research. Happy Holidays.

@sweetcostarica

8 жыл бұрын

+James Hart I answered your questions already above so Mr Hart the best thing we can do is end our conversion and be happy with whatever choices we have made whether it be traditional, tourist, or even non-Nepali. Enjoy the day to the full brother.

@sweetcostarica

8 жыл бұрын

+James Hart Link has been deleted.

I see a lot about Tora Blades being hailed as #1 because of the traditional design. Some take this as license to give HI a lower rank because they aren't as traditional (Even though they do make traditionall blades if you look through all the available models). Is this to say that the designs are any less effective? I'd like to see more head to head chop tests on Kukri (Khukuri?) of similar length.

@sweetcostarica

8 жыл бұрын

+Bill Melater You said: "Even though they do make traditional blades if you look through all the available models." I and many others praise Tora Blades kukris for their excellent kukris because they are not making tourist kukris just to sell overseas. They make replicas of past & current kukri that Nepalis villagers & Nepali soldiers used everyday. If you know your Himalayan Imports (HI) history you would know HI first started making traditional kukris but the Kukri boom in the West and demand for cheap but large kukris by Western customers created *the Tourist Export kukri*. Sadly today most HI kukris are very heavy full-tang unbalance big knives. Bill you also said: "Is this to say that the designs are any less effective?" YES, much less effective. Tourist kukris are OK to chop with only due to their weight. But at their 2 to 3 pound unbalanced weights a regular axe is much more effective. Traditional kukri are *way better* because they are multi-purpose, well balanced, easy to carry, better self-defense weapons, and can be used all day with less fatigue.

@billmelater6470

8 жыл бұрын

+sweetcostarica Thanks for the info! However, I've looked through their website and most blades are hidden tang. On a personal note, full tang doesn't bother me. You say theirs are thicker. How thick are Tora Kukri typically? I'm pretty new to the kukri world, so I assumed a blade with a bit more heft, though not as agile, will aid in chopping.

@sweetcostarica

8 жыл бұрын

+Bill Melater Tora's like traditional kukris are usually about 6 to 8 mm thick. Tourist kukris are 10 to 12 mm thick in the spine by the bolster. Full-tang blades on kukri are a Western idea & invention. They were introduced by the British to Nepali kukris starting with the MK II Indian pattern kukri of WW2 fame. The hidden tang and most popular today in Nepal, the stick tang handles are not only traditional but better for chopping balance & cutting with a kukri. Why? Western full-tangs detract from chopping by putting more weight in the handle. This is better for a fighting blade. Traditional hidden & stick tangs put more metal into the blade area and make the kukri lighter and balanced forward. - You want forward balance in a chopper. Neural balance in a fighter (hence full-tang) - Hidden & stick tangs kukri are light making them easier to use & carry. - Warm handles with no frost bite in all day usage- Less shock to the hand - They have other advantages too of the traditional handle but I don't want to make this too long. So now time to do your homework and study. I have listed sources for you to check out that with help understand what really is a kukri (see ref. below) *Sources* sirkukri.blogspot.com Ben Judkins - (Kung Fu Tea) Identifying & Collecting the Nepalese Military Kukri. Tora Forum (Facebook) Antique Kukri Forum (SFI) British Blades Forum The International Kukri Research & Historical Society (IKRHS)

Khukuri was not Born In NEPAL 🇳🇵🥰 It Was Born In Kumaon, In Himalayas, And Used By Aaryans, Later Been Introduced To Mongolians (Kiratis)

After reading the comments I rate this review as dissonant and dubious. The video, by itself, seems to suggest that both companies are of equal quality which is a wash so the only way to measure each company's value is by considering their unique designs per each buyer's personal preference and goals, a fair albeit safe conclusion, but having read the comments a clear bias towards one company is undeniable, so why not just state which company you prefer in the video?

Condor makes a nice affordable kukri also

👍👍👍👍👍👍👍

I think we're getting to the stage where we need to look at the term "tourist khukuri". There;s no doubt blades are being made for a more western market so they're longer, wider, heavier and often with full tang handles because we in the west have a lack of trust in anything else. Even though these blades are not something traditionally used in the East they are still made with the traditional skills and attention to detail. Some of them being of very high quality indeed. To me when I hear "tourist blade" I think of the much poorer quality item which exists, made without any attention to traditional skills in backstreet shacks on a very small scale, to be purchased by tourists passing through, who otherwise would have no interest in or knowledge of knives. That kind of knife is different to any knife KH, HI or Tora offers. Perhaps the phrase "westernised Khukuri" is more accurate for some of the knives being discussed?

@sweetcostarica

8 жыл бұрын

+chipoftheundead Here is the definition of a *tourist/export kukri* someone said that is very accurate: "Even though these blades are not something traditionally used in the East." That is a great sentence because it begs the question why aren't they used in South East Asia? Aren't they good enough? IMO the reason is even if they are strong, unbreakable. highly, polished, have shark teeth blades, have finger guard, have a bottle opener, weight 2 to 3 or more pounds, are full-tang which transmit shock to the hand, are un-balanced, have extra-thick spines, etc. Nepalis are practical people and want kukris to actual use for work and not display. A tourist blade is easy to spot. The best way is to study real antique kukris. Here are references that help: sirkukri.blogspot.com Ben Judkins - (Kung Fu Tea) Identifying & Collecting the Nepalese Military Kukri. Tora Forum (Facebook) Antique Kukri Forum (SFI) British Blades Forum The International Kukri Research & Historical Society (IKRHS) You stated we in the West, we want something non-traditional, i.e. longer, wider, heavier and often with full tang handles. That is not true of most of us. Many Westerners want the real deal and are lied to by most Khukuri marketers as they strongly hint that ALL their blades are the same ones that Nepali villagers or Gurkhas use. Check out all the Gurkha pictures on their sites. Notice in the kukri the real Gurkha is using in the photo. That is right not the Khukuri Houses' blade but a traditional BSI. In fact the folks using "tourist" kukris today are mostly Western youth who think there kukri is the biggest and baddest blade in their backyard. But for folks who want real traditional kukris; they are hard to find in Thamel or on the internet.

@chipoftheundead

8 жыл бұрын

+sweetcostarica I hear you. Thanks for the references, I'll check them out. Just on a personal level though don't you think the term "tourist blade" is a negative term, which some certainly do deserve but then seems too much of a simplification and perhaps an expression of knife snobbery when applied to others? The fact is a majority of purchasers of these knives with more western characteristics aren't tourists and a lot of the knives although not traditional in dimensions are still excellently made and very functional. If we're going to start using perjorative terms to describe knives made to suit changing demand, or more with aesthetics and shop window appeal in mind than traditional form and function I think we'd have to call a huge portion of ALL knives on sale "tourist blades". What d'you reckon?

@sweetcostarica

8 жыл бұрын

+chipoftheundead I will say *ALL knives on sale are "tourist blades" by the Nepali marketers to the West*. *Exceptions:* most early and A FEW of today's Himalayan Import blades and most of the replica kukri that Tora Blades sells are the real deal. It is not an over simplification or snobbery to call a spade a spade. "Tourist blades" are sold to Westerners by the Khukuri Houses & others from mainly Thamel in country & on the Net. This is a well known fact that collectors & studiers of kukri history know. Note: with museums around the World that have kukris it is also easily seen. Did I hear you say correctly: "a lot of the knives although not traditional in dimensions are still excellently made and very functional." A sharpen crowbar is excellently made too BUT is it usefully efficient? No way. Take a look at the knives on eBay that the Khukuri Houses sell or if you have the money go take a tour of Nepal's Thamel district check out those. OK here it is, what I and people who want "real" kukris. We want these kukri makers to stop with the lies and make us great traditional blades. But of course they would not make anymore money if the truth was out: i.e. what we get in the West (unbalanced heavy tourist junk) is not want they sell to Nepalis (usable tools for all day work). Just saying.

@chipoftheundead

8 жыл бұрын

+sweetcostarica Thanks for your videos, and for your thoughts. Much appreciated.

@rainmayhem4255

6 жыл бұрын

chipoftheundead i would never spend that much money on a kukri unless it was full tang

Thanks for the tip about Filipino Weapons dot.com. I will check them out. Atlantic Cutlery ACC.com has run out of almost every Kukri they bought from Nepal's armory which is sad for late comers to the Kukri collecting world.

"Kami marks" are simply a modern marketing ploy. Most genuine khuks don't have them and never have. The only markings you see on many old khuks are military stampings. Bottom line, a few symbols don't mean anything as far as authenticity.

I would really appreciate it if you could give me some input on the scourge apocalypse in comparison to the blades you reviewed, is it better? Similar? What about the quality of the steel? Durability? Rust resistance? Chopping / cutting power? Thank you very much!!

@sweetcostarica

7 жыл бұрын

I have not used the Ex-Gurhk Khukuri House 16 Inch Scourge Zombie Apocalypse kukri. It is obviously made for export & for Western style of use. So it is 99.9% a tourist kukri. If you like the Scourge Zombie Apocalypse for personal reasons I would say buy it. *If you like traditional kukris* that are much better balanced, lighter for all day use, designed - redesign after hundreds of years to work bamboo & light to medium duty wood buy a Tora Blades kukri or a traditional kukri from Himalayan Imports. HI has a very small selection of traditional kukris but they are there if you look hard enough. Stay frosty.

I like big blades and i cannot lie~

of course people would hide their new ideas- it would only work with the ones that had been already published. That's exactly why it could be only done for a very short period of time. It most probably wouldn't be beneficial to most of the companies/patent holders so it will never happen in reality- but, again, I think it would be great for the end user. Especially gadget-lovers :)

If you prefer "The Beast" over any other Kukri, Kukri Like Objects (KLO), Bowies, Parangs, Borongs, etc. Then that is what I want to see. I am a practical man, not a hater. People should use what they like & what they think is effective. My love for the traditional blades put out by Tora Blades & sometimes by Himalayan Imports is my personal preference. These blades seldom go over 20 ounces and are very effective in bushcraft because of their design. So go forth, camp, hike, enjoy your Kukri.

October 2021

I LOVE ontario knives. They should not be very good in theory. They are massed produced and are cheap. I own 4 ontario knifes. Spec fighters and marine raider. I own semi custom knifes and the ontarios are just as precious to me.

First, let me say, IMHO, you can't go wrong with the Tora, HI, or Cold Steel Ghurka Khukuri, DEPENDING on what you want to use them for. If you want a heavier chopper to replace a hunters axe (my case because of disability), or a darn near indestructible knife, go HI CAK or other heavier HI variant. If you want a tool/weapon that can do medium camp chopping and defend your life, it's Tora or CS. I have carried and actually USED the CSGK in Carbon V for years, and the CSGK SM3 is my bedside knife! CS got a bad rap on Bladeforums with the "KLO" boat paddle moniker for years. I know. I was there. Their advertising isn't as bad as some KH stuff.,.but close, as CS is geared for military, LEO, (tactical) and hard outdoor use. But ounce for ounce are their Khukuris better than HI OR TORA, I don't think so...I still have not seen a CS STYLE TORTURE TEST BETWEEN THE CSGK IN CARBON STEEL VS. THE HI 18 inch CAK. I probably never will. But to each his own...Great review.

Dear can i buy tora blades in UAE?? how much will it cost ? can you suggest me for an all around use ?

@sweetcostarica

10 жыл бұрын

Hi Mr. Nair, You probably can get one but you should check with Simon Hengle at his store's website for cost & important business information: torablades.com AND check with your Post Office & Customs to see if everything it allowed in UAE. --The Kukris An all round use Tora Kukri is the Tora Limbu or Tora Kiranti Sirupate Kukri. It is very good in my opinion for camp work & even some food chopping. Anther all rounder is the Tora's Havildar kukri. It is a favorite among many & it has great looks. Hope you get a good khukuri Krishnarj Kair.

@ammuskrishna

10 жыл бұрын

thank you ...i;ll check with that :) thank u very much

a good combat kukri is around 500 grams. Most are fare too heavy for real use.

I personally don't care if the design was ripped of or not- all I care about is whether or not the knife/swords/gun/whatever works/looks/feels well.

They sell fine blades that is for sure; but I don't think a Nepalese recruit let alone a native living in Nepal, today could/would pay the $200 USD they are asking for these Tora blades. They made/make the real-deal, that is used daily in the fields of Nepal, from the springs of old trucks/cars. You don't need to be a high artisan smith with high test steel; nor do you need to spend the kind of money "collectors" pay for an authentic Khurkri (and according to my friend from Nepal, it is supposed to have an "h" in the spelling -- that is just what he told me). You can get a good, functional blade that will last decades of proper use for under $50, easy (as of today, Nov 2019).

Are you from Costa Rica? Or you live there?

@sweetcostarica

4 жыл бұрын

Hi Frank, no I am not hispanic but I have been to Mexico, Honduras, went through the Panama Canal, & decade ago to Costa Rica. When I went to *Costa Rica* I hand planned to retire there early at 47 (I'm 57 right now). BUT... Although, I had fun there, walked the amazing wild forests, & enjoyed the culture Costa Rica was starting to get _unstable & dangerous_ as more theft, shootings, robbing of foreigners, many Chicas trying to catch me for a sugar daddy, political corruption, etc. -- so I left. Costa Rica is in my KZread name as a memory of it. Maybe in the future Costa Rica will become the _rich coast_ it should be. God bless

@chaconfc13

4 жыл бұрын

@@sweetcostarica oh okay yeah that's not Costa Rica's fault that's the rest of the surrounding countries specially Nicaragua

@sweetcostarica

4 жыл бұрын

@@chaconfc13 Yes, I heard of this when I was in country. Former Pres. of Costa Rica Laura Chinchilla Miranda was being elected at the time. Basically, political and economic unrest in Nicaragua caused tens of thousands of Nicaraguans to flee south for Costa Rica. Shame, but God is with us & the future has got to be better. Stay frosty

Actually, Simon of Tora Blades does train Gurkhas. The Khukuri House Kukris are OK but not in the same league as HI and Tora. Khukuri House cost less because: their heat treat is a hit or miss affair, are heavier/thicker, unbalanced, lower quality finishing, etc. If you get a HI Deal of the Day you will pay the same as a Khukuri House Kukri (go to HI Forum) and Tora Blades (my favorite) cost more, about $140 USD but ARE worth it. Tora makes Kukris as close to real historic Kukris as possible.

In the early 1980's I live for a while in Nepal. I would buy tourist kukris for three or four dollars. In the morning I would stand by the road as the wood choppers came in with wood. I would trade them the tourist kukris for their hand made old kukris. They were happy to do this and thought they were really getting over on me. Therefore apparently they like the tourist kukris when they can get them.

@Astyanaz

7 жыл бұрын

Also, compared to Nepalese prices, all of these prices seem exorbitant. They had a law where a tourist had to go in every month and prove that they were spending at least five dollars a day in order to stay in the country. If it is possible for a tourist to stay in hotels and eat at restaurants for $150 dollars a month, can you imagine how much cheaper a local con live?

@sweetcostarica

7 жыл бұрын

Interesting times in 1980's Nepal. Today, you would not recognized the country: new laws, new government, new non-traditional young people moving to the cities. The 1980's tourist kukri boom era in the West is still going on but dying I believe. Hopefully real tradition kukris will survive. Thanks for sharing your experiences in Nepal.

I know patents promote development and research. But if ONLY ONCE, for a short time, like a year, everybody could use all their competitors ideas- I think it would be very interesting year for all the consumers. I'm just dreaming, that's all.

yep u pronounced indra and sarpa properly. (y) it sure is hell of a fun to play with khukuris isn't it

H.I. in general are known as the gold standard, yes there are better but theres are more renowned

Yes, it does all depend on what you are going to be using the Kuhkuri for. I use mine to train the Gurhkas with before they join the military. (Just kidding!) Anyway, how do Kuhkuri House Kuhkuris compare with these 2 brands? They are significantly cheaper, but dont include shipping. But the average Kuhkuri House model costs about $49 - $69 - $99 plus shipping($30 or so). They look as good as the HI models, but looks can be deceiving I guess. But the HI models cost $150 - $200 on average...

Vielleicht.

Which sirupati is the one you have in this video? 18 in or 20 in?

@sweetcostarica

8 жыл бұрын

+Harry C Himalayan Imports (HI) measures their kukri differently than everyone else. They measure the total length of their kukris instead of measuring the blade only. So the HI Sirupate I have/had is/was 18" inches long from tip to butt plate (total length).

@hcdemoman

8 жыл бұрын

+sweetcostarica then how long is the handle?

@sweetcostarica

8 жыл бұрын

Harry Chung Handle was 4 3/4 inches long for the Himalayan Imports Sirupate.

@hcdemoman

8 жыл бұрын

+sweetcostarica i see thank you!

@hcdemoman

8 жыл бұрын

+sweetcostarica one more thing, I really want to get a Tora, but I've heard some disputable things in bladeforum and I'm a bit skeptical about the company.. I really like the Tora because of their light weight, but I'm a bit skeptical about Simon and his business ethics. Heard some stuff about Tora quality control is weaker compared to other brands and that his customer service is not the best.

❤👍👌💯🥰

Khukuri is our symbol👊

Sir all khukuri are made in nepal and are hand made

I've owned a few Kukris from Himilayan Imports. They are massive, more like a utility tool than a weapon. Older kukris I have (WW2 era) are light, and super-hard steel. They wouldn't be much use as a utility tool.

@sweetcostarica

8 жыл бұрын

+Doug Finlayson Heres the rub: Himalayan Imports (HI) kukri are marketed to Westerners who like big thicky spined knives. We foreigners use full force on the swing and have a very tight grip. It is odd you think lighter and thinner kukris as compared to Himalayan Imports & the Khukuri Houses are not utility tools. *That is exactly what they are used for in SE Asia and Nepal.* They being light and not 2 or 3 pounds or more make them perfect at a very traditional weight of 18 oz. (or less). The Nepalis (& Indians, SE Asians) like lighter tools that can be worn & used all day without fatigue. Their grip is a loose two finger and thumb one. If they need a massive, hard chopping utility tool the Nepalis & others just use an axe. Not as glamorous but more effective.

@nomenemo2921

8 жыл бұрын

+sweetcostarica I think you're right about some hard ot lighter but longer chopping. for this reason I suggest you not to put all westerners together, especially all europeans with americans. there is also a conbsiderable fact in makinstill effecting half weighth tools, especially if big: steel is , and moreover was, cheap at all! Ial am italians and as all latins we have our kind of machete, that is quite like a light kukry, but mostly we use the "Roncola" to cut smaller branches - and that is light an with hidden tang, otherwise as almopst anuwere in the world we use hatchets oofall dimensions. in inEnlglathey have a another hidden tang chopper but square and wery ry thick and quite short... old fixed blades were full tang and massive of iron o0nly in US because of their low cost of all the materials and so for other historical trascourse they develope more and more and more the culture of, bigger is better. most of their knives are like that! (now also in Maniago, the european capital of knives - many other towns in europe are specialized in iron blscksmithing knives etc, but none is even close to Maniago... Fox, Viper, Lionsteeel, just tosay some of the biggest but there are also many specialized small factories working also for other brands elsewhere - now they are following, as usual the us fashion of supethick knives. if you see some good, not great but still excellent new russian brands, they follow their old hunters tradition and most of their knives are non more than 3mm thick mst with hidden tang... same in many great finand knives, all thinner and with hidden tang too not to talk about mora... but what about one of the icon of american knives? the WW2 mark 2 by ka-bar camillus, ontario, for sure not that thich and with the hidden tang! now kabar makes the canmmpanion of 66mm thick annot longer than 25 cm... Ilove them all, Ihave a an alien custom kukry for an axeperiment with fill tang, low guard, skull breaker at the end, handles fixed with screws, but quite short and thinner, 3 chirra (lighter an more elòastic) but the still made iot too thick, unfortunately, because apartt from some bad finished details is a a wonderful camp knifeabout 33 cm overall wight 500 grams - exactly as my best "tough excursion" knife a Tops. I made a mess, as always, in my reasoning... but at the end I agree with you fifty fifty, even if many people think that we could get closer to allround means and tools doing almos anything that mean can do as the pefect motorbike, car, bike, sky, welder, grinder, smartphone , camera, pc, etc. but there's no way, and knives and bladesyou just can get some closer but still very far to be completely allround, is whath ancients greeks called a "Chimera" a mythological animal in fact thah monster descending from gods was made of almost four opf five (changing) different animals, so searching for a Chimera is following an illuision of something able to do many things togher but that does not truly exist. there is another point about knives that are almost the same, they could cut well in chopping but even if razor sharp they are terrible fot carving or other porposes...

@sweetcostarica

8 жыл бұрын

nome nemo Hi, you are right when you told me to not "put all westerners together". I must restate in a better way: instead of: "We foreigners" replace with "Most foreigner". Sorry for the confusion I did not want to say everyone is the same. But the general premise is the same truth: *Most* foreigners use full force on the swing and have a very tight grip. AND "The Nepalis (& Indians, SE Asians) like lighter tools that can be worn & used all day without fatigue. Their grip is a loose two finger and thumb one." And thus the tool choice is very much different. Thanks for helping me clear up a possible problem.

The word KLO would upset a lot of nepali because I've shown guys in the 10th gurkha rifle's the ontario and cold steel kukuris and they much preferred them to the standard issue kukuri. Then again, this is because they're soldiers and not farmers. "kukuri" is not a protected trademark anymore than a kerambit is. It merely refers to a blade of a certain shape and style. As good as you think tora and HI KUKURIS ARE, their heat treating is nothing compared to that of American production models. For this reason, when I buy kukuris in Nepal to bring back to India, I just ask for full tang blanks (better balance far less likely to fail in field) then profile them myself then send them off to be heat treated professionally if I'm not in a situation where I have access to a furnace.