Our Makhila models for order
NOTE
CUSTOMISE YOUR MAKHILA
We create unique bespoke Makhilas
Choose the metal
We work with three different metals: brass, which is gold-coloured, nickel silver, which is silver-coloured and sterling silver, which is a precious metal. The choice of metal is obviously a question of taste and use.
Brass
Brass is a gold-coloured metal, an alloy of copper and zinc. It acquires a patina over time.
Nickel Silver
Nickel silver is an alloy of copper, nickel and zinc. It is a very solid metal and well-known since coins are made form this.
Sterling silver
Sterling silver is almost pure silver. For 1000 grams of material, there are 950 grams of silver. It is a precious metal.
Choose your motto
The motto engraved on each Ainciart Bergara makhila is a short phrase (7 to 8 words), which we systematically translate into Basque. The motto can reflect values, a life philosophy or a commonly used phrase which corresponds to you. It can also be a message you want to pass on to future generations since the makhila is handed down in families.
When you give someone an Ainciart Bergara makhila, the motto can be to thank them, wish them a safe journey, happiness, etc.
Examples of mottos and quotes:
NEREKIN BIDEA LABUR
With me the journey is short
IDIAK ADARRETARIK GIZONA HITZETIK
(We can recognise) cattle by their horns,
people have their own way of keeping their word
ZAHARRAK LAGUNTZEN GASTEAK EDERTZEN
Helping the elderly enhances the beauty of the young
GOGOR ETSAIARI GOZO JABEARI
Harsh with the enemy, gentle with the owner
GAU ILHUNAREKIN HAR MAKHILA ZUREKIN
For a dark night, take your makhila with you
ZELHAI ETA MENDIKO ON NAIZ NUN NAHIKO
For the plain or the mountains, I am good everywhere
NERE LAGUNA ETA LAGUNTZA
My friend and my aid
ELGARREKIN PARTIKA DITZAGUN IZADIAREN EDERGAILUAK
Let’s share together the beauties of nature
NEREKIN NEHOREN BELDUR
With me fear of no-one
Ferrule and handle engraving
Name and motto
We always engrave the first name and surname of the Makhila’s future owner, as well as a motto (short phrase) provided when the order is made or shortly after and which we translate into Basque. These are stamped on the upper ferrule.
Initials on the handle
We also hand engrave the initials of the future owner on the metal handle. These are engraved in English letters, ie. intertwined. All these customised items are included in the price.
Customised symbol
We can also, for an extra fee, hand engrave drawings, coats of arms and symbols on the handle. Contact us to find out what is feasible and the price.
Frequently asked questions
Orders are sent by email. All you need to do is send us this order form to atelier@makhila.com. We then record your order and send you our bank details so you can pay a deposit (30%).
The motto, weight and size can be sent after the initial order is made.
Our makhilas are all made to measure by hand, which means production times are quite long. You will be notified of the exact date when your order is confirmed. Contact us to find out exactly when orders are being taken.
Shipping costs depend on the destination country and will be confirmed when the makhila is finished. You can contact us for an estimate.
For orders outside France, contact us by email (atelier@makhila.com).
We have written a handbook on the subject which you can consult here (in French).
The most important thing is to regularly nourish the wood with wax. You can care for the metal and leather according to your taste.
Our makhilas are made to measure by hand in our workshop, which means production times are quite long. Contact us to find out exactly when orders are being taken.
