I've had my 20" Sirupati "#204" for about a week now, and would like to share some early impressions with the membership, especially the silent ones who read but don't post, and don't own an HI khuk yet. Old-timers will probably just nod and say 'So what's new about that?'
Any previous knife experience you have had is put into a whole new perspective when you handle one of 'the real thing'. #204 is a true short sword, a 'saber', not an 'epee'. Five minutes of exercise with it will convince you of this. Moulinets with this 7/16" blade are a new experience!
I find the blade 'teaches' me how to manage it...the balance and geometry require a drill which is self-unfolding. For instance, I have seen photos of Ghorka GI's holding their knives blade-up at the left shoulder in a sort of 'present khukuri' posture. I have now realized that this is the best guard posture for these big knives. As a long-time student of the Styers (USMC 1950's) doctrine, I am learning many new things: like how to stand up!
After a workout with the sirupati, I am very much reminded that I have forearm muscles (I have ignored their whimpering, and told them to get used to the new regime, the whispy Randall Bowie at 18" and 1 lb 12 oz has spoiled them.)
I am amazed at the skill of the kamis. My knife comes up shaving sharp with such a thick blade. What many in the knife world call the Moran rolled edge would seem to be a much older, and non-Western, discovery.
We owe an enormous debt to Bill for making it possible for us to cross over into another culture, and enjoy one of its finest products.
And the discoveries continue...
Any previous knife experience you have had is put into a whole new perspective when you handle one of 'the real thing'. #204 is a true short sword, a 'saber', not an 'epee'. Five minutes of exercise with it will convince you of this. Moulinets with this 7/16" blade are a new experience!
I find the blade 'teaches' me how to manage it...the balance and geometry require a drill which is self-unfolding. For instance, I have seen photos of Ghorka GI's holding their knives blade-up at the left shoulder in a sort of 'present khukuri' posture. I have now realized that this is the best guard posture for these big knives. As a long-time student of the Styers (USMC 1950's) doctrine, I am learning many new things: like how to stand up!
After a workout with the sirupati, I am very much reminded that I have forearm muscles (I have ignored their whimpering, and told them to get used to the new regime, the whispy Randall Bowie at 18" and 1 lb 12 oz has spoiled them.)
I am amazed at the skill of the kamis. My knife comes up shaving sharp with such a thick blade. What many in the knife world call the Moran rolled edge would seem to be a much older, and non-Western, discovery.
We owe an enormous debt to Bill for making it possible for us to cross over into another culture, and enjoy one of its finest products.
And the discoveries continue...