Panawal Dotted (Supreme)

Panawal Dotted (Supreme)

Panawal in strict khukuri term means full-flat tang riveted handle. The khukuri blade comes with a one-piece full flat tang in which two handle plates are secured by glue (epoxy) and riveted to strengthen the handle fixture. “Dotted” used for the name of the khukuri refers to the points or “Khil” in Nepalese made by rivets in the handle. Here a unique distinct handle is crafted where the piece of the blade (tang) in the handle section is flat, not narrow and pointed as in other knives. The tang is therefore visible on both sides of the handle. The handle (two plates) is joined strongly to the blade with two rivets that can also be seen. It is further secured by steel cap and bolster from the two ends of the handle. The Panawal handle is especially designed for heavy stressful work; to endure and to last the harshest treatment. “Panawal Dotted” is the mother (source) of all various Panawal versions crafted by KHHI and many other local companies.

Panawal Dotted kukri has an interesting story behind it. Although the khukuri was brought into practice in history long ago and this sort was particularly used in the 2nd world war days by Gurkhas the kukri knife was in the verge of extinction in the later years after mid 20th century. It is only after the establishment of KH now KHHI in 1991 TB BK, the man behind the success of KHHI realized the importance of a hardcore working kukri and started the production of “Panawal Dotted” for the very reason in large scale. It was therefore only from 1993 the Panawal Dotted came back into limelight and stormed the khukuri market instantly. Soon it was so much in production to meet the demands that people started making “Panawal” khukuri in various shapes, sizes and started adopting different styles and names using the same “Panawal-Handle” system.

Panawal Dotted khukuri also has a different and special blade forged to withstand the rough and tough treatment. A semi-fuller layer or hump that runs across the main (above) panel of the blade is forged to give more strength and durability to the width of the blade while in use and also to cut down unnecessary weight of the blade. The curvature gives support to the flat surface by evenly distributing the impact force generated when striking against a target. It is also a display of true craftsmanship as it is very hard to craft. Since a Panawal Dotted is a heavy version the cut down in the weight makes the khukuri easier to use. The knife's balance is such that though heavier it is easier to work with.

Now the Steel chape/tip is discarded and a lanyard loop is fitted in the tip of the sheath for a string/cord to go through to tie around thigh so wobbling can be minimized when in full motion. It is a farmer’s first choice kukri.

Size of blade: 10 inch
Materials: Water buffalo leather scabbard, twin riveted full flat tang rosewood handle, 2 x small knives 
Origin: Dharan, Eastern Nepal