Was gong to buy one of these knives, but due to all the shrinkage handle threads I don't think I want to deal with problem handles. I think they would have found a solution to or a material that holds up. I guess if product is selling their is no need to improve it.
All natural material handles need to be cared for periodically. The only solution is to use a stabilized synthetic material, because these are made by hand in the tradition way, using G10, Kraton, Micarta, etc...is unfeasible.
If you do not buy a blem with any handle issues, then with a little maintenance for its care would be sufficient to keep any handle issues at bay.
It's the same with any carbon steel blades, you need to maintain them, or they rust, correct? Same with natural material handles.
These khukuris are made in Nepal where there is high humidity, then they are shipped to Nevada, where it has a very low humidity level, which may contribute to some shrinkage, and in extreme conditions, cracks. Thus, it is very important to hydrate your khukuri when you receive it.
Sometimes while the khukuris are in storage in Reno, they develop handle issues, due to the low humidity. These issues are fairly easy to remedy with a little knowledge, and these blades are sold at a discount on this forum.
HI never sells handles or blades with any sort of cosmetic defects as stock items, but only as blemishes, and they are sold only here in the HI forum.