Kukri/Khukuri


Khukuri (Kukri): The Iconic Curved Blade from Nepal
The khukuri, also spelled kukri, is a traditional curved knife that holds immense cultural, historical, and practical significance in Nepal. Recognized for its inwardly curved blade, the khukuri is not only a versatile cutting tool but also a powerful national symbol associated with the bravery and valor of the Gurkha soldiers. Today, it continues to be used across Nepal for everyday work, military purposes, ceremonial events, and as a collectible item by enthusiasts worldwide.
What Is a Khukuri (Kukri)?
A khukuri is a fixed-blade knife, usually measuring between 10 to 15 inches in blade length. Its distinctive inward curve makes it ideal for chopping, slicing, and slashing. Unlike straight knives, the curved profile of the khukuri generates greater force with each swing, making it especially effective for heavy-duty tasks.
The khukuri typically features a single-edged blade, a handle crafted from hardwood, buffalo horn, or metal, and is accompanied by two smaller blades:
Karda – A small utility knife used for skinning or carving.
Chakmak – A blunt sharpening tool used to hone the main blade.
These three components are housed in a scabbard, usually made from wood and covered in leather. The scabbard may also be decorated with traditional designs or embellishments depending on its intended use.
Historical Background of the Khukuri
The origin of the khukuri dates back centuries, with its design believed to have evolved from ancient Greek or Indian blades. However, it truly rose to prominence with the Gurkhas, Nepalese soldiers known for their exceptional courage and combat skill. The khukuri became their weapon of choice and a symbol of their martial identity.
The khukuri first gained international attention during the Anglo-Nepalese War (1814–1816). Impressed by the Gurkhas’ bravery and the effectiveness of the khukuri in battle, the British began recruiting them into the British Army. Since then, the khukuri has been a standard issue weapon for Gurkha regiments in the British and Indian armies, as well as in the Nepalese military.
Today, the khukuri remains deeply tied to the identity of the Gurkhas and is worn during official ceremonies, parades, and military duties. Its symbolism extends beyond the battlefield, representing Nepalese pride, resilience, and craftsmanship.
Cultural Significance of the Khukuri in Nepal
In Nepalese society, the khukuri is much more than a weapon or a utility knife. It is a cultural heirloom, passed down through generations. It plays a vital role in religious rituals, festivals, and traditional ceremonies. In Hindu households, khukuris are sometimes used in Dashain, Nepal's biggest festival, during ceremonial animal sacrifices.
The khukuri is also given as a gift of honor. It is often presented to dignitaries, foreign guests, and high-ranking military officers as a token of respect. For many Nepali households, owning a khukuri is a matter of pride.
Functional Uses of the Khukuri
Despite its cultural and symbolic importance, the khukuri remains a practical tool used daily in Nepal. Its functional design makes it indispensable in both rural and military settings.
1. Agriculture and Domestic Work
Farmers use the khukuri for clearing brush, chopping wood, harvesting crops, and even preparing meat. Its size and curve make it a powerful and multi-functional cutting instrument for outdoor work.
2. Military and Combat
The khukuri is standard equipment for Gurkha soldiers and is still used for ceremonial purposes. Though modern firearms dominate the battlefield, the khukuri remains a close-combat weapon of choice for many Gurkhas.
3. Ceremonial Use
In many traditional rituals, especially during Dashain, the khukuri is used in offerings and sacrifices. It is also used in weddings and religious festivals.
4. Martial Arts and Training
Practitioners of Nepali martial arts, such as Kukri Fighting or Pancha Ranjan, use khukuris in demonstrations and training.
5. Collectors and Enthusiasts
Khukuris are sought after by collectors around the world who appreciate their design, craftsmanship, and historical significance. Authentic khukuris made in Nepal are especially valued for their hand-forged quality.
Types of Khukuri (Kukri)
Over the years, different regions and groups in Nepal have developed unique khukuri styles suited for specific purposes. Here are some of the most well-known types:
1. Sirupate Khukuri
Known for its slender, straight-edged blade, the Sirupate is lightweight and ideal for quick, precise strikes. It is favored for its speed and agility.
2. Bhojpure Khukuri
Originating from the Bhojpur region, this khukuri has a broader and heavier blade. It is perfect for heavy-duty tasks like chopping firewood or clearing thick vegetation.
3. Angkhola Khukuri
This style features a fuller (a groove) along the blade that reduces weight without compromising strength. The Angkhola design is popular for extended outdoor use.
4. Chitlange Khukuri
A more decorative variant, the Chitlange is often used for ceremonial or presentation purposes. It may have engraved designs and a refined finish.
5. Panawal Khukuri
The Panawal has a full tang blade that runs through the handle, providing extra durability. This is ideal for rigorous tasks and is often used by professionals.
6. Dhankute Khukuri
From the Dhankuta region, this style is recognized by its artistic handle and scabbard. It is highly ornate and often used as a gift or ceremonial item.
7. Service No. 1 Khukuri
This is the standard issue khukuri for Gurkha soldiers. It balances functionality with ease of use and is designed for combat and general utility.
How Is a Khukuri Made?
Authentic khukuris are hand-forged by traditional blacksmiths known as Kamis in Nepal. The process involves:
Forging the Blade: Usually from high-carbon steel such as recycled leaf springs or rail steel.
Heat Treatment: Blades are tempered to ensure the right hardness and flexibility.
Shaping and Sharpening: The blade is hammered into shape and sharpened to a fine edge.
Handle Crafting: Handles are shaped from buffalo horn or hardwood and fitted to the tang.
Scabbard Making: Wooden scabbards are wrapped in leather and fitted to the blade.
Every khukuri reflects the skill, tradition, and cultural knowledge passed down through generations of craftsmen.
Why Is the Khukuri So Popular?
The popularity of the khukuri lies in its multi-purpose design, historical legacy, and cultural symbolism. It is a knife that bridges the gap between tool and weapon, heritage and utility.
Collectors admire it for its uniqueness and traditional value. Outdoor enthusiasts and survivalists appreciate its cutting power. Martial artists train with it to preserve combat heritage. For Nepalese people, it is a symbol of identity, strength, and pride.
Where to Buy Authentic Khukuris?
To ensure you're purchasing a genuine khukuri, it is best to buy directly from reputable makers in Nepal. Everest Forge offers a wide range of hand-forged khukuris crafted by skilled blacksmiths using traditional methods. Whether you're looking for a functional tool or a ceremonial piece, you can find an authentic khukuri to match your needs.
Each blade is forged with care and attention to detail, preserving the centuries-old tradition of Nepalese craftsmanship.
Brand: Everest Forge
12 Inches 5 Chirra (Fullers) Ganjawal KukriProduct Key Features:
Blade Length: 12 inches (30.48 cm)
Blade Material: Highly Graded Carbon Steel
Blade Finish: Semi-polished with 5 Fullers (Chirra)
Handle Material: Rosewood and Bone
Handle Type: Full tang with Yak bo..
$159.99
Ex Tax:$159.99
Brand: Everest Forge
10 Inches Long Blade Sirupate - Most Famous KukriProduct Key Features:
Blade Length: 10 inches
Blade Material: 5160 Carbon Steel (RC Spring)
Blade Finish: Semi-Polished
Handle Material: Full Tang Buffalo Horn
Handle Length: 6 inches
Scabbard: Cotton Covered i..
$94.99
Ex Tax:$94.99
Brand: Everest Forge
10-Inch Dragon Engraved Ganjawal Khukuri – Handmade Traditional Nepalese KnifeSpecifications:
✅ Handle Length: 5 inches (Horn)
✅ Total Length: 15 inches (Blade Tip to Handle Pommel)
✅ Blade Hardness: Edge: 58-60 RC
✅ Steel Type: 5160 Car Spring Steel
✅ Weight: 750g (Knife Onl..
$154.99
Ex Tax:$154.99
Brand: Everest Forge
10-Inch Blade Ganjawal Kukri – Hand-Forged Traditional Multipurpose KnifeSpecifications:
Blade Length: 10 inches (Hand-Forged 5160 Carbon Steel)
Handle Length: 5.5 inches (Water Buffalo Horn, Full Tang)
Total Length: 15.5 inches (Blade Tip to Handle Pommel)
Blade Hardn..
$149.99
Ex Tax:$149.99
Brand: Everest Forge
13 Inches Panawal Sirupate Kukri-Khukuri
Traditional Nepalese Kukri with Full Tang Rosewood HandleKey Features:
Blade Length: 13 inches (33.02 cm)
Handle Length: 5 inches (12.7 cm)
Overall Length: 18 inches (45.72 cm)
Weight: Approx. 1.8 lbs (800 grams)
Blade Mat..
$134.99
Ex Tax:$134.99
Brand: Everest Forge
13 Inches Chainpure Farmer Kukri-Khukuri
Traditional Design with Modern Full Tang Handle – Handcrafted in NepalKey Features:
Blade Length: 13 inches (33.02 cm)
Handle Length: 5 inches (12.7 cm)
Overall Length: 18 inches (45.72 cm)
Weight: Approx. 1.85 lbs (840 grams)
..
$139.99
Ex Tax:$139.99
Brand: Everest Forge
13 Inches Chainpure Farmer Kukri-Khukuri
Traditional Kukri Blade with Full Tang Rosewood Handle – Handcrafted in NepalKey Features:
Blade Length: 13 inches (33.02 cm)
Handle Length: 5 inches (12.7 cm)
Overall Length: 18 inches (45.72 cm)
Weight: Approx. 1.85 lbs (840 ..
$134.99
Ex Tax:$134.99
Brand: Everest Forge
12 Inches Blade Butcher Kukri-KhukuriProduct Key Features:
Blade Length: 12 inches (30.48 cm)
Blade Material: Highly Graded Carbon Steel (5160 Car Spring)
Blade Finish: Polished
Handle Material: Rosewood
Handle Type: Full tang with an ergonomic grip for maximum fo..
$129.99
Ex Tax:$129.99
Brand: Everest Forge
12 Inches Blade Panawal Angkhola Kukri - Hand-forged Multi-purpose Tool for Hunting and Outdoor UseSpecifications:
Blade Length: 12 inches (30.38 cm) – Polished blade
Handle Length: 6 inches (15.25 cm) – Full tang with guard, made of Rosewood
Total Length: 18 inches (45.72 ..
$134.99
Ex Tax:$134.99
Brand: Everest Forge
12 Inches Blade Defender Kukri – Afghan Issue
Key Features:
Blade Length: 12 inches (30 cm)
Blade Material: Highly Graded Carbon Steel (5160 Car Spring)
Blade Design: Double Fuller (Angkhola Style), semi-polished finish
Handle Material: Rosewood with ergonomic..
$129.99
Ex Tax:$129.99
10 Inch 3 Chirra Guard Kukri – Hand Forged in NepalThis handmade 10-inch 3 Chirra Guard Kukri is a premium Nepalese blade built for durability and performance. Featuring three distinctive fullers, this kukri delivers excellent balance, reduced friction, and enhanced strength—making it a..
$129.99
Ex Tax:$129.99
Brand: Everest Forge
12 Inches Blade Black Beast Kukri-KhukuriProduct Key Features:Product Description:
Blade Length: 12 inches (30.48 cm)
Blade Material: Highly Graded Carbon Steel (5160 Car Spring)
Blade Finish: Unpolished with 3 Chirras (Fullers) for strength and balance
Handle Material..
$134.99
Ex Tax:$134.99
Brand: Everest Forge
15 inches Blade Eagle Sirupate Khukuri-Kukri – Hand Forged Traditional Kukri from NepalProduct Description:
Introducing the 15-inch Blade Eagle Sirupate Khukuri, a traditional and highly revered kukri from Nepal. The name "Sirupate" derives from "SIRU," a type of grass known for its na..
$149.99
Ex Tax:$149.99
This is one of the traditional kukri.The name Sirupate is derives from “SIRU”(kind of grass) which is very narrow and sharp. Unlike other kukri’s the blade of this kukriis very narrow so this kukri is named as sirupate khukuri. This kukri is very famous in Nepal. 15” Rust free blade is ..
$144.99
Ex Tax:$144.99
Brand: Everest Forge
18 Inches Panawal Angkhola Kukri – Hand Forged Carbon Steel Blade with Rosewood Handle (Farmer)The Black Farmer or Village Khukuri is an essential agricultural tool commonly used in the rural countryside of Nepal. This versatile and sturdy kukri is perfect for a variety of tasks includi..
$224.99
Ex Tax:$224.99
Brand: Everest Forge
24 Inches Large Panawal Sirupate Kukri – Traditional Hand-Forged Khukuri from NepalThe Sirupate Kukri is one of the most iconic and traditional styles of khukuris from Nepal. Its name comes from the Nepali word “Siru,” a type of grass that is long, narrow, and razor sharp—just like the ..
$164.99
Ex Tax:$164.99
Brand: Everest Forge
10-Inch Blade Farmer Kukri – Handcrafted Traditional Nepalese ToolSpecifications:Key Features:
Blade Length: 10 inches (Unpolished 5160 Carbon Steel)
Handle Length: 5 inches (Full Tang, Rosewood)
Total Length: 15 inches (Blade Tip to Handle Pommel)
Blade Hardness: ..
$109.99
Ex Tax:$109.99
11 Inches Blade Defender Kukri-KhukuriProduct Key Features:
Blade Length: 11 inches
Blade Material: 5160 Carbon Steel (Car Spring)
Blade Finish: Semi-polished with Double Fuller (Angkhola Style)
Handle Material: Full Tang Sadhan Wood
Handle Length: 5.5 inches
..
$124.99
Ex Tax:$124.99
Brand: Everest Forge
10-Inch Blade Everest Tiger Khukuri – Handcrafted Traditional Nepalese KnifeSpecifications:
✅ Handle Length: 5 inches (Full Tang, Rosewood and Yak Bone)
✅ Total Length: 15 inches (Blade Tip to Handle Pommel)
✅ Blade Hardness: Edge: 58-60 RC
✅ Steel Type: 5160 Car Spring Steel
..
$134.99
Ex Tax:$134.99
Brand: Everest Forge
11 Inches Blade Full Tang Butcher Kukri-KhukuriProduct Key Features:
Blade Length: 11 inches
Blade Material: 5160 Carbon Steel (Car Spring)
Blade Finish: Un-polished
Handle Material: Full Tang Rosewood
Handle Length: 5 inches
Overall Length: 16 inches
We..
$114.99
Ex Tax:$114.99
Brand: Everest Forge
10-Inch Blade Panawal Service Kukri – Authentic Gurkha Military Knife
✅ Blade Thickness: 3/8 inch (0.95mm) at the spine
✅ Handle Length: 5.25 inches (Full Tang, Rosewood)
✅ Total Length: 15.5 inches (39.37cm) from tip to pommel
✅ Blade Hardness: Edge: 58-60 RC, Belly: 45-46 RC, Spin..
$109.99
Ex Tax:$109.99
Brand: Everest Forge
12 Inches Blade Defender Kukri-KhukuriKey Features:
Blade Length: 12 inches (30 cm)
Blade Material: Highly Graded Carbon Steel (5160 Car Spring)
Blade Style: Double Fuller (Angkhola Style), semi-polished finish
Handle Material: Rosewood with ergonomic finger grip
..
$134.99
Ex Tax:$134.99
Brand: Everest Forge
12 Inches Afghan Guard Kukri-DefenderProduct Key Features:
Blade Length: 12 inches (30.48 cm)
Blade Material: Highly Graded Carbon Steel (5160 Car Spring)
Blade Finish: Semi-polished with Double Fuller (Angkhola Style)
Handle Material: Rosewood
Handle Type: Full t..
$134.99
Ex Tax:$134.99
Brand: Everest Forge
12 Inches Blade Survival Kukri-Khukuri – Hand-forged Practical Survival Tool
Specifications:
Blade Length: 12 inches (30.38 cm) – Semi-polished, highly graded carbon steel
Handle Length: 6 inches (15.25 cm) – Full tang with guard, made of Dark Rosewood
Total Length..
$129.99
Ex Tax:$129.99
Brand: Everest Forge
12 Inches Blade 3 Chirra (Fuller) Beast Kukri-KhukuriProduct Key Features:
Blade Length: 12 inches (30.48 cm)
Blade Material: Highly Graded Carbon Steel (5160 Car Spring)
Blade Finish: Semi-polished with 3 Chirras (Fullers)
Handle Material: Rosewood
Handle Type: F..
$134.99
Ex Tax:$134.99