Large khukuri - Janawar Katnu

[Bill M]

I have heard that these large khuks were used for beheading animals in sacrificial ceremonies. This one is about 27" overall. Carved scabbard.

[Battara]

Interesting piece Bill. Looks like there was something at the throat of the scabbard that came off - perhaps metal decoration?

[Berkley]

Looks like there was something at the throat of the scabbard that came off - perhaps metal decoration?

Possibly, or braided rattan is often employed, but sometimes doesn't take well to the kind of use these kukris get. Here's a specimen (ex JP collection) with an old repair done in waxed twine.
Janawar katne/katnu = animal cutter. Also known as maar hani, meaning something like "sacrificial killing". A search on IKRHS will show some other specimens, and illustrations of the ceremony itself that are not recommended for vegans or the squeamish.

[Battara]

Thanks Berkly, did not know this. I was also basing the metal theory on the nail holes in the top of the empty space at the top of the scabbard.

[spiral]

Yep looks a good size to top a buffalo Bill, {seems an easily miunderstood statement! }

Those ive seen with silver or brass straps have been nailed across the back, with nails done more in depth than width.

Rattan is the commenest strap fitting, indeed, as Berk says.

woodworm or pinhole borer is quite common amongst the scabbards as well.

What sort of weight is it Bill ? & how far is the balance point in front of bolster? just trying to get the mental feel of it.

without straps, I am wondering what holds the 3 pieces of wood together? pinned at edges or native type glue perhaps?

Spiral

[Battara]

Worm holes......hmmmmm.......never thought of that......

[Bill M]

Originally Posted by Battara

Interesting piece Bill. Looks like there was something at the throat of the scabbard that came off - perhaps metal decoration?

Jose,

Can't tell. Berkley may be right. Don't think it is worm holes because I don't see any more on the scabbard, except there are some more holes in the back in about the same place as though a band of some kind was wrapped around it and nailed in place.

Originally Posted by spiral

Yep looks a good size to top a buffalo Bill, {seems an easily misunderstood statement! }

What sort of weight is it Bill ? & how far is the balance point in front of bolster? just trying to get the mental feel of it.

without straps, I am wondering what holds the 3 pieces of wood together? pinned at edges or native type glue perhaps?

Spiral

"Buffalo Bill?" Hmm

The balance point is far forward. Certainly blade heavy when held. I would think that would give it great follow through for a powerful cut.

I think it would do the job on a buff if you hold him by the snout. (See picture).

[Ferguson]

Beautiful piece Bill. Wonderful carving on the scabbard as well!
Steve

[spiral]

Top picture Bill! Got me laughing! *& saved for posterity! Think that beast is African though?

Sounds like a later wrap might have been nailed on then gone awol.

Not had real buffalo steak since Nepal, slice em up & keep em coming!

There black pig is tops though! {crispy fried.}

Spiral