Forged Kukri with Mabandolo - 5160

Product Description for Forged Kukri with Mabandolo - 5160

Maker: Dave Skinner (click to see more by this maker)
Item num: 113341
** This is handmade and one-of-a-kind **
Blade length: 10.50 in.
Cutting edge length: 9.60 in.
Total length: 15.60 in.
Blade height (at heel): 2.27 in.
Blade thickness (near bolster): 0.20 in.
Blade thickness (at midpoint): 0.20 in.
Blade thickness (near tip): 0.15 in.
Item weight: 17.60 oz.
Shipment weight: 32.4 oz.
Blade: Hand forged 5160 carbon steel with an antique finish
Handle: Presentation grade curly mabandolo wood
Sheath: Leather sheath and zipper case
Description: Born in 1952 in Johannesburg, South Africa, Dave Skinner’s journey spans from a respected career in optometry to the intricate art of knifemaking. A practicing optometrist in Port Elizabeth, Dave is admired for his precision and care—qualities that seamlessly translate into his craftsmanship at the forge. Since beginning his knifemaking journey in 2011 under Mastersmiths Kevin and Heather Harvey, he has developed a deep passion for creating high performance blades. Today, he continues to balance his profession and craft, earning recognition within the Knifemakers’ Guild of Southern Africa for his refined skill and artistry.
The kukri is a distinctive Nepalese blade with a forward-curving profile that makes it equally effective as a chopping tool and a fighting weapon. Traditionally carried by Gurkha soldiers and used in daily tasks from woodcutting to butchery, its broad belly concentrates force on a small area for powerful, controlled cuts. Kukris vary in size and shape—from short utility knives to large combat blades—and often carry cultural and ceremonial significance in Nepalese society. Today they remain prized by collectors, outdoorsmen, and military units for their rugged versatility and iconic silhouette.
The blade is hand forged 5160 carbon steel with an antiqued finish. 5160 is extremely tough and chip resistance, making it a perfect steel for hard use knives. The blade is flat ground with some convexity at the cutting edge. Fullers are ground into each side of the blade. Skinner's touchmark is on the left side of the blade.
The handle is South African curly mabandolo wood (Acacia nigrescens), also known as knobthorn. This African deciduous tree features knobbed thorns that protect the tree against elephants eating the bank. The handle scales are secured to the distal tapered full tang using large corby bolts. This dense, resinous wood has a beautiful mix of warm brown and dark brown striations. The figure is similar to curly koa and ringed gidgee, which is not surprising given that mabondolo is another member of the acacia family. A lanyard can be added to the rear of the handle for extra retention if desired. The hand sculpted handle provides a comfortable, slip resistant grip.
To keep the knife close at hand, a hand stitched and tooled leather sheath made by Dave is included. A branded cleaning cloth and a zipper case is also included.
Excellent work throughout!


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