Symbolism of Bali Cecekahan handle?

[David]

Originally Posted by Marcokeris

....Also, ever example i have seen has 5 notches, so it leads me to believe that there must be some significance to the number.

This is a 9+9+3 example....but how many othes with different numbers there are? [/QUOTE]
Marco, just to clarify, i am inquiring about the 5 straight notches that are cut into the back of the "head" of the hilt, not the notches cut down the sides of the hilt. This last example you have posted also has these same 5 notches.

Jussi, i have average size hands and i have little problem extending my forefinger onto the blade much the way it is shown in the photo posted by Rick. The hilts are normal Bali size and i have no idea who Alexander Karelin is. Though i will point out that i have a number of smaller than average bondalan style hilts which make this grip very easy.