Uzbek pchak (argali horn handle with mother-of-pearl)

A pichok (from the Uzbek word "pichoq" – knife) is a traditional knife of the Uzbeks and Uyghurs, widespread with minor variations in details throughout Central Asia. Pichoks traditionally feature a single-edged blade with a full flat grind, set into a narrow handle with a round cross-section. The narrow hidden tang extends from the blade at the spine level. These are utility knives used for kitchen work, although among the Uyghurs, the pichok was an attribute of a man, so it must have also been used as a weapon. Pichaks (or pichoks) were made from various materials; for the wealthy, they could feature high-quality steels and rich decorations, but such pieces were rare. Wootz and Damascus steel were rather used for sabers, while mass-produced pchaks were made of low-hardness carbon steels. Today, many pchaks are made of stainless steel, mainly Russian 40x13 stainless steel hardened to 54-56 HRC.

This particular kayke type pchak belongs to this stainless steel group – in this blade profile, the tip of the knife is upswept above the spine line. The handle is a sukma type (meaning a hidden tang construction) made of argali horn – a species of wild sheep widespread in Central Asia that inhabits high mountain regions. The bolster is made of melchior (cupronickel). Both the guard and the handle itself are decorated with mother-of-pearl. The sheath is closer to Russian sheaths than to traditional ones from the region (thicker leather, snap button fastener). Forged 40x13 stainless steel. The spine is quite thick for a pichok of this length, which probably explains the large fuller (wide groove) right below the spine. The fuller reduces the weight of the blade while simultaneously stiffening it.

Total length: 178 mm

Blade length: 144 mm

Blade width (max): 31 mm

Blade thickness (max): 4.6 mm

Steel (according to Russian nomenclature): 40x13