Kukri

The Kukri (or khukuri) is a heavy, curved Nepalese knife used as both tool and weapon. It is also a part of the regimental weaponry and heraldry of Gurkha Brigade. (Khukuri or khookree are more accurate transliterations).

Nepali boys are supposed to be able to handle their kukri by the age of five. Most of them are handcrafted (although many net shops seem to advertise hi-tech versions). During World War Two, Gurkha recruits preferred their village smith's (kami) blade to mass-produced issue ones. Obviously the quality of the blade varies widely.

In combat, the main thrust is upwards against the neck. It is never thrown (despite stories where it is used like a boomerang).

However, the kukri is not only a weapon but also a multi-use utility tool. It can be used for building, clearing (like a machete), chopping firewood, digging, cutting meat and vegetables, skinning and nowadays also opening tins. The legend that a Gurkha never draws the blade without drawing blood is just that - a legend.

Blades are typically 30-38 cm (12-15 inches) but size varies. Ceremonial versions can be up to 70 cm (27 inches) long. They have a notch at the base of the blade near the handle. Ceremonial blades used to sacrifice water buffalo are much larger.

Kukri sheaths are usually made of wood with a leather covering. The leatherwork is usually done by a sarki. The sheath also holds two smaller knives called the karda and the chakmak. The karda is for skinning. The charmak is used to sharpen the blade and it can also be used to start a fire with flint.

The kukri also has a religious significance in Hindu religion and is blessed during the Dasain sacrificial festival.

The kukri is similar to the 5th century BC Greek kopis. It was a slashing sword of similar shape but three times as large. It may be that the model has carried to Nepal via the Scythians.