First of all, I just want to say I love this knife for its durability and versatility, but also for its quality. I spent a lot of time shopping for kukri. I really wanted a genuine Nepalese Gurkha Kukri, but unless you get up near the $100+ range, the quality is variable, even within the same brand and product line. I went with the Condor because I felt more confident that I would get a quality product instead of just the luck of the draw, and I wasn't disappointed. I also have something to say to the multitudes of other reviewers of this knife (and other kukri's) who complained that the knife is dull when they received it. While my knife was not dull, it wasn't razor sharp; but I believe there is a good reason for that. As I mentioned earlier it is versatile, capable of making thin slices or intricate carving, as well as chopping down a stout tree. However, it is a style of knife that one needs to practice with in order to use skillfully and safely. It is heavier than most knives with a thick blade that when swung with force is capable of severing thick branches, as well as fingers, hands, feet, bones or major arteries. I believe the manufacturer is helping to protect people from injuring themselves. For those of us who still want a razor sharp blade, a few minutes of sharpening is all it will take to get it there. But if you're not a person who uses knives or machetes often, you might want to do your practicing with this knife before your shaving, if you catch my drift.
