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Military Kukri/Khukuri Timeline

The military kukri/khukuri timeline: 43 patterns from the Gorkhali wars to today

Every kukri/khukuri carried by Nepal's armies, the British Gurkhas, the Indian Gorkha Rifles and the Gurkha police units, in date order. Each entry gives the dates, who carried it, its size and how to recognise it, with links to museum records, research papers and collector sources.

Dates come from museum records, regimental histories and collector research, and some are still argued over. Where sources disagree, each entry says so. Every pattern can be forged to order; our replicas are marked as Everest Forge reproductions, never with period issue stamps.

Download the research paper (PDF)53 pages: the full history, all 43 patterns with drawings, a marks and dating guide and every source. Free.

1550175018001850190019502000
Origins to 1816Nepal State Army, 1816 to 1950British and Indian Army, 1815 to 19471947 to today

Origins to 1816

The khukuri as the Gorkhali soldier's sidearm, from the unification wars to the Anglo-Nepal War and the first Gurkha battalions.

7 patterns

c.1559

Drabya Shah Kukri/Khukuri (National Museum, Chhauni)

Long-hilted 'hanshee' form; displayed as the oldest khukuri in Nepal.

Used by
Gorkha royal house (attributed)
UncertainKK-001
Full details and sources

Attribution rests on the museum label and tradition; Mandarin Mansion considers it a misattribution. The museum case shows two slender khukuris; Kunwor calls the blade a sirupate.

Dates
Museum: c.1559. Kunwor: c.1550. Bammi/BBC: 1627. Form suggests late 18th-early 19th c.
Also known as
Dravya Shah khukuri; '500-year-old khukuri'
Makers and marks
No catalogue data found
How sure we are
Legend / disputed

Full entry in our research paper (PDF, page 30)

Read more

Related on Everest Forge: Origin of the kukri/khukuri, Historical Replica Kukri/Khukuri

1674to 1816

Kora (related Gorkhali war sword)

Not a kukri, but the primary Gorkhali war sword alongside it.

Used by
Gorkhali army - the main fighting blade of the period
DocumentedKK-007
Full details and sources

Koras tied to Kirtipur at Bagbhairab Temple; two in the Royal Danish Kunstkammer since 1674.

Dates
Since at least 1674; Kirtipur 1760s; Anglo-Nepal War 1814-16
Also known as
Khora; 'heavy semicircular sword' in British accounts
How sure we are
Documented

Full entry in our research paper (PDF, page 30)

Read more

Related on Everest Forge: Origin of the kukri/khukuri, Historical Replica Kukri/Khukuri

1750to 1857

Hanshee (Hamsiya) Fighting Kukri/Khukuri

Long hilt, narrow, strongly curved blade, shallow notch (cho).

Used by
Gorkhali soldiers of the unification and Anglo-Nepal War
Blade
c.33 cm (13 in) per one secondary source
Collector researchKK-002
Full details and sources

First clear picture: Fraser Album drawings of Gurkha soldiers, Saharanpur, July 1815. Declined after 1857. Kunwor uses 'hasiya' for a village sickle-type tool, so treat the 'hamsiya' name with care.

Dates
c.1750-1857 (Kunwor extends use into the early 1900s)
Also known as
Lambendh; long-hilt Gorkhali khukuri
Makers and marks
Not documented
How sure we are
Probable (scholar/collector)

Full entry in our research paper (PDF, page 31)

Read more

Related on Everest Forge: Historical Replica Kukri/Khukuri, Origin of the kukri/khukuri

1792to 1795

Qianlong Palace Museum Kukri/Khukuri

Earliest khukuri with solid provenance.

Used by
Captured or presented during the Sino-Nepalese War / tribute missions
DocumentedKK-003
Full details and sources

Moderately curved blade with no spine hump, stubby hilt with little pommel flare, very shallow cho, strongly recurved scabbard with large metal chape, 3 karda + 1 chakmak.

Dates
Acquired c.1792-1795
Also known as
Beijing khukuri; Sino-Nepalese War khukuri
Makers and marks
Published in Qing gong Wubei (2008) vol.56 p.151
How sure we are
Documented

Full entry in our research paper (PDF, page 31)

Read more

Related on Everest Forge: Origin of the kukri/khukuri, Historical Replica Kukri/Khukuri

1793to 1811

Kirkpatrick 'Khookheri' (first European illustration)

Plate in Kirkpatrick's 'Account of the Kingdom of Nepaul' (1811), pp.118-119.

Used by
Nepal (described as worn by everyone, used mainly as a cutting tool)
DocumentedKK-004
Full details and sources

Engraver exaggerated the upturned tip.

Dates
Mission 1792-93; published 1811
Also known as
Khookheri & Khora plate
How sure we are
Documented

Full entry in our research paper (PDF, page 31)

Read more

Related on Everest Forge: Origin of the kukri/khukuri, Kukri/khukuri terminology guide

1800to 1830

V&A Gold-Inlaid Kukri/Khukuri 3095(IS)

Steel blade, shallow notch, wooden hilt damascened with gold eight-petalled flowers.

Used by
Nepal (possibly Indian work)
Total length
19 in (48 cm)
DocumentedKK-005
Full details and sources

In the India Museum by 1855; to the V&A 1879. Sources disagree on the date.

Dates
Late 18th c. (Mandarin Mansion) or probably early 19th c. (V&A)
Also known as
Egerton no.314
Makers and marks
Width 1.5 in (3.8 cm)
How sure we are
Documented object; date disputed

Full entry in our research paper (PDF, page 32)

Read more

Related on Everest Forge: Origin of the kukri/khukuri, Etched and Engraved Kukri/Khukuri

1810

Chupri Socket-Bayonet Kukri/Khukuri

Kukri blade on a socket that fits the Brown Bess musket; some invoke Gorakhnath in an inscription.

Used by
Nepal state army (fits Brown Bess musket)
Collector researchKK-006
Full details and sources

One of the rarest types in the Lagan Silekhana cache.

Dates
c.1810
Also known as
Bayonet khukuri; offset-handle khukuri
Makers and marks
Inscriptions on some
How sure we are
Collector consensus

Full entry in our research paper (PDF, page 32)

Read more

Related on Everest Forge: Origin of the kukri/khukuri, Historical Replica Kukri/Khukuri

Nepal State Army, 1816 to 1950

Patterns from the Royal Nepalese Arsenal at Lagan Silekhana, plus the marked khukuris of Nepal's officers and royal house.

9 patterns

c.1760to 1899

Tulwar-Hilt Kukri/Khukuri

Kukri blade fitted with an Indian tulwar-style hilt, some gold inlaid.

Used by
Nepal arsenal (few pieces)
Total length
c.19-23 in (48-58 cm)
Blade
c.15 in (38 cm)
UncertainKK-013
Full details and sources

A forum collector suspects some hilts were added later.

Dates
c.1760 to late 19th c. (Kunwor); 'Victorian' per IMA
Also known as
Gold-inlaid tulwar-style handle kukri
Makers and marks
IMA ON1300 (sold out)
How sure we are
Uncertain

Full entry in our research paper (PDF, page 32)

Read more

Related on Everest Forge: Historical Replica Kukri/Khukuri, Etched and Engraved Kukri/Khukuri

1860to 1880

Military Sirupate Kukri/Khukuri

Slimmest military type.

Used by
Nepal state army (Lagan Silekhana arsenal)
Total length
40-45.5 cm (15.7-17.9 in)
Blade
30-35 cm (11.8-13.8 in)
Spine
7-8 mm
Weight
400-614 g
Collector researchKK-008
Full details and sources

Shallow, long kaudi (notch area). Handles often replaced, sometimes with sword hilts. Partial tang, glued wooden grip.

Dates
c.1860-1880 (not before 1850)
Also known as
No fixed trade name
Makers and marks
300-400 pieces in the cache
How sure we are
Collector consensus

Full entry in our research paper (PDF, page 33)

Read more

Related on Everest Forge: Traditional Kukri/Khukuri, Historical Replica Kukri/Khukuri

1860to 1885

Royal Nepal Army Officer Kukri/Khukuri - Rana Lion Mark

Officer-marked khukuri carrying the Rana lion emblem; dated by collector comparison.

Used by
Nepal state army officers
Collector researchKK-035
Full details and sources
Dates
c.1860-1885
Also known as
Rana lion khukuri
Makers and marks
Rana lion emblem
How sure we are
Collector consensus (Kunwor)

Full entry in our research paper (PDF, page 33)

Read more

Related on Everest Forge: Historical Replica Kukri/Khukuri, Honor of the kukri/khukuri

1885to 1930

Classic Gurkha Army Kukri/Khukuri (CGAK)

Large leaf blade, usually two fullers.

Used by
Nepal state army
Total length
45-48 cm (17.7-18.9 in); IMA approx 18 in
Blade
34-37 cm (13.4-14.6 in)
Spine
9-13 mm (IMA 3/8 in)
Weight
579-892 g
Collector researchKK-010
Full details and sources

Most carry the 'Shree Teen Chandra' spine inscription (PM Chandra Shumsher, 1901-1929) plus unit abbreviation and rack number - which argues for Judkins' later dating. Partial tang, glued wood grip.

Dates
Judkins: mostly pre-WWI, in service through interwar. IMA: in use until late 1890s (conflict)
Also known as
Long Leaf; Victorian Long Leaf; Longleaf
Makers and marks
Shree Teen Chandra inscription; c.30% of cache
How sure we are
Collector consensus (dates disputed)

Full entry in our research paper (PDF, page 34)

Read more

Related on Everest Forge: Historical Replica Kukri/Khukuri, Chirra Kukri/Khukuri

1885to 1925

Royal Nepal Army Officer Kukri/Khukuri - Sun & Lion Mark

Sun and lion emblem, some inscribed 'Sri Shakteya'.

Used by
Nepal state army officers and generals
DocumentedKK-036
Full details and sources

Dated example: General Sir Tej Shumsher Rana's kukri, steel butt-plate engraved and dated 6 Jan 1920, fixed with two screws; leather scabbard, cloth frog, karda and chakmak.

Dates
c.1885-1925
Also known as
'Sri Shakteya' khukuri; the Nepalese General's kukri
Makers and marks
Sun & lion emblem; engraved butt-plates
How sure we are
Documented (dated example)

Full entry in our research paper (PDF, page 34)

Read more

Related on Everest Forge: Historical Replica Kukri/Khukuri, Honor of the kukri/khukuri

1890to 1910

Military Budhume Kukri/Khukuri

Very broad blade, carved kaudi, steel butt-plate held by two screws, unexplained 'papu' stamp on every example.

Used by
Nepal state army
Total length
48.5-50 cm (19.1-19.7 in)
Blade
38.5-39.5 cm (15.2-15.6 in)
Spine
9-11 mm
Weight
759-907 g
Collector researchKK-009
Full details and sources

One collector argues a US dealer's 'Budhume' was really an early Long Leaf.

Dates
c.1890-1910
Also known as
Budhume; Budhune
Makers and marks
'papu' stamp; 200-300 pieces
How sure we are
Collector consensus

Full entry in our research paper (PDF, page 35)

Read more

Related on Everest Forge: Large Blade Kukri/Khukuri, Historical Replica Kukri/Khukuri

1910to 1939

Short Gurkha Army Kukri/Khukuri (SGAK)

Down-scaled Long Leaf.

Used by
Nepal state army
Total length
41-42.5 cm (16.1-16.7 in); IMA 16.5-17.5 in
Blade
31.5-32 cm (12.4-12.6 in)
Spine
9-12 mm
Weight
495-650 g
Collector researchKK-011
Full details and sources

Often a Nepalese figure mark at the handle base; diamond cho on some. Most common type in the cache. 'Bhojpure' here is a size class, not proof it was made in Bhojpur.

Dates
Judkins: late 1920s-1930s. IMA: 1880s to c.1925 (conflict)
Also known as
Bhojpure; Bhojpuri; Small Bhojpure
Makers and marks
Figure mark; 50-60% of cache; some WWI-dated with broad arrow
How sure we are
Collector consensus (dates disputed)

Full entry in our research paper (PDF, page 35)

Read more

Related on Everest Forge: Bhojpure Kukri, Broad Forward Belly, Historical Replica Kukri/Khukuri

1911to 1962

Rana / Royal State Kothimora (Coat of Arms)

Kothimora scabbard with the Nepal coat of arms or the Maharaja (prime minister) crest; Nepali numeral 5 (Shree Panch, the king) or 3 (Shree Tin, the Rana PM).

Used by
Nepal royal family, Rana prime ministers, state presentation
Collector researchKK-037
Full details and sources
Dates
c.1911-1962
Also known as
Shree Panch / Shree Tin kothimora
Makers and marks
Coat of arms; Nepali numerals 5 or 3
How sure we are
Collector consensus (Kunwor)

Full entry in our research paper (PDF, page 36)

Read more

Related on Everest Forge: Kothimora Ceremonial Khukuri, Blog: the kothimora khukuri

1936to 1949

Late Gurkha Army Kukri/Khukuri (LGAK)

Often three fullers; signs of machine grinding.

Used by
Nepal state army
Total length
42.5-46.5 cm (16.7-18.3 in)
Blade
32-34 cm (12.6-13.4 in)
Spine
7-9 mm
Weight
547-671 g
Collector researchKK-012
Full details and sources

Thinner spine than CGAK/SGAK.

Dates
Late 1930s-1940s
Also known as
'WWI Vintage' (trade label, called wrong by Judkins)
How sure we are
Collector consensus

Full entry in our research paper (PDF, page 36)

Read more

Related on Everest Forge: Chirra Kukri/Khukuri, Historical Replica Kukri/Khukuri

British and Indian Army, 1815 to 1947

From privately bought Longleafs to the issue Mk I, Mk II and Mk III, regimental workshop kukris and presentation pieces.

14 patterns

1793to 1899

Kothimora Kukri/Khukuri (18th-19th c.)

Silver- or gold-mounted scabbard ('kothi' = chape, 'mora' = mould).

Used by
British and Gurkha officers (presentation)
Collector researchKK-021
Full details and sources

Shown in Kirkpatrick's 1793 plate and carried by Nepal's kings from at least the 18th century; later presented to British and Gurkha officers, some with British royal arms.

Dates
From at least 1793 (Kirkpatrick plate) to late 19th c.
Also known as
Silver-mounted presentation kukri
How sure we are
Collector consensus

Full entry in our research paper (PDF, page 36)

Read more

Related on Everest Forge: Kothimora Ceremonial Khukuri, Blog: the kothimora khukuri

1815to 1903

Pre-Standard Longleaf Kukri/Khukuri (Gurkha regiments)

No standard issue before 1903.

Used by
East India Company / British Indian Army Gurkha battalions (private or unit purchase)
Blade
14.75-16 in (37.5-40.5 cm)
Weight
25-32 oz (710-910 g)
Collector researchKK-014
Full details and sources

Main 19th-century military form, often with a partial T-spine. No regimental (e.g. Sirmoor) pattern documented.

Dates
c.1815-1903
Also known as
Longleaf; pre-Mark kukri
Makers and marks
Mostly unmarked
How sure we are
Collector consensus

Full entry in our research paper (PDF, page 37)

Read more

Related on Everest Forge: Mutiny-Pattern Khukuri, Historical Replica Kukri/Khukuri

pre-1891to 1947

Regimental Kothimora (Pre-1947)

Presentation kothimoras made by regimental armourers (Bhanu Lohar, 1/4 GR, pre-1891; Damar Sing, 2/4 PWO GR, 1924-35) and given to officers (7 GR 1939; 8 GR 1938-1947).

Used by
Gurkha regiments and officers (1/4 GR, 2/4 PWO GR, 7 GR, 8 GR; Mountbatten)
DocumentedKK-042
Full details and sources

The 'Goorkha' spelling dates pieces before 1891.

Dates
Pre-1891 to 1947
Also known as
Armourer's presentation kothimora
Makers and marks
Armourers' and unit inscriptions
How sure we are
Documented (dated, inscribed examples)

Full entry in our research paper (PDF, page 37)

Read more

Related on Everest Forge: Kothimora Ceremonial Khukuri, Blog: the kothimora khukuri

1895

Afghan Mazar-i-Sharif Arsenal Kukri/Khukuri

Khukuri made at the Mazar-i-Sharif arsenal and dated 1895 - a non-Gurkha army using the form.

Used by
Afghan army (Mazar-i-Sharif arsenal)
Collector researchKK-043
Full details and sources
Dates
1895
Also known as
Afghan army kukri
Makers and marks
Mazar-i-Sharif arsenal, 1895
How sure we are
Collector consensus (Kunwor)

Full entry in our research paper (PDF, page 37)

Read more

Related on Everest Forge: Historical Replica Kukri/Khukuri

1903to 1915

Mk I Kukri/Khukuri

Rat-tail tang through a one-piece walnut grip with a nut recessed in the butt.

Used by
British Indian Army Gurkha regiments
Blade
13.25-14 in (33.5-35.5 cm)
Weight
24-35 oz (680-990 g)
Collector researchKK-015
Full details and sources

Heavy, front-weighted blade.

Dates
c.1903-1915 (Kunwor: c.1900-1920s)
Also known as
Mark I (collector term, applied in hindsight)
Makers and marks
Mostly unmarked; some 'Co.' (Cossipore) 1915; FW, QA, RP inspection marks 'Q.A 5.05' = Quetta Arsenal, May 1905. Kunwor shows dated, regiment-marked examples; also issued to the Army Bearer Corps.
How sure we are
Collector consensus (dates disputed)

Full entry in our research paper (PDF, page 38)

Read more

Related on Everest Forge: MK I Chirra Khukuri, Blog: Mk I, Mk II and Mk III explained

1914to 1945

Battalion Issue Sirupate (Regimental Workshop Kukri/Khukuri)

Slim sirupate-type blade made by or for the battalion, outside the War Office pattern.

Used by
Gurkha battalions (e.g. 2/8 GR) when government supply ran short
DocumentedKK-038
Full details and sources

Stick tang peened over an oval metal butt plate. Ricasso stamped with battalion, company and service number (e.g. '2/8 GR 4726'). 8 GR ran its own WWII workshops using car-spring steel.

Dates
c.1914-1945 (WWI-WWII)
Also known as
Regimental sirupate; 8 GR workshop kukri
Makers and marks
Battalion + company + service number on ricasso
How sure we are
Documented (regimental history + marked examples)

Full entry in our research paper (PDF, page 38)

Read more

Related on Everest Forge: Traditional Kukri/Khukuri, Chirra Kukri/Khukuri

1915to 1944

Mk II Kukri/Khukuri

Steel bolster and steel buttcap (brass-bolstered 'Mk II' = fake).

Used by
British Indian Army Gurkha regiments (WWI & WWII)
Blade
13.25-13.75 in (33.5-35 cm)
Weight
20-28 oz (570-790 g)
Collector researchKK-016
Full details and sources

Riveted grip scales; WWI pieces have two small round pommel rivets. Some stamped 'II'.

Dates
1915-c.1944 (WWI and WWII)
Also known as
Mark II; 'M43' (maker + year stamp per most collectors; Kunwor and some sellers treat it as a model)
Makers and marks
WWI: Co./Cossipore (main), DHW, GDB & Co., E. Boota Singh & Sons, AS & Sons. RFI Ishapore 1926-27. WWII: ATD, M/MIL, Pioneer Calcutta, Qeyoom/Queera Bros, JNB Also Mukand Iron & Steel Works, Lahore (WWII). 1942-dated example recorded. 'Co I-arrow-G 1915' = Cossipore, India Government, 1915.
How sure we are
Collector consensus

Full entry in our research paper (PDF, page 39)

Read more

Related on Everest Forge: WWI-Era Pattern Khukuri, Blog: Mk I, Mk II and Mk III explained

1915to 1916

Enfield-Inspected WWI Kukri/Khukuri

Birch hilts, rat-tail tang, light blade, often a recessed ricasso.

Used by
British supply (Sheffield-made)
Blade
12.25-12.75 in (31-32.5 cm)
Weight
15-17 oz (425-480 g)
UncertainKK-017
Full details and sources

Fewer than 15 examples known. Also faked.

Dates
1915-1916 (all known examples)
Also known as
Sheffield kukri (S&J Kitchin)
Makers and marks
S&J Kitchin, Sheffield; Enfield inspection marks
How sure we are
Uncertain

Full entry in our research paper (PDF, page 39)

Read more

Related on Everest Forge: Blog: Mk I, Mk II and Mk III explained, Historical Replica Kukri/Khukuri

1916to 1945

Jodhpur Aluminium-Hilt Kukri/Khukuri

Aluminium/alloy hilt; some with a trident stamp.

Used by
Attributed to Jodhpur supply - the Jodhpur museum curator knows of no kukri made for the Lancers
UncertainKK-018
Full details and sources

Caution: 3, 6 and 8 GR also used metal hilts from the interwar years, so a metal hilt alone does not prove Jodhpur.

Dates
WWI (Kunwor, Mehrangarh Museum parallels) or c.1945 (other collectors) - disputed
Also known as
Maharajah of Jodhpur kukri
How sure we are
Uncertain

Full entry in our research paper (PDF, page 40)

Read more

Related on Everest Forge: Blog: Mk I, Mk II and Mk III explained, Historical Replica Kukri/Khukuri

1920to 1930

Regimental Contractor Etched Kukri/Khukuri (4 GR, Bakloh)

Acid-etched blades signed by the Bakloh contractor Lal Sing; one spine-dated 'C.S.F.

Used by
4th Prince of Wales's Own Gurkha Rifles
Collector researchKK-039
Full details and sources

1925'.

Dates
c.1920-1930
Also known as
Lal Sing kukri
Makers and marks
Lal Sing (Khukris Contract Co.), Bakloh
How sure we are
Collector consensus (Kunwor)

Full entry in our research paper (PDF, page 40)

Read more

Related on Everest Forge: Etched and Engraved Kukri/Khukuri, Historical Replica Kukri/Khukuri

1920to 1930

Regimental Dashain (Sacrificial) Kukri/Khukuri

Very large, heavy khukuri kept as regimental property for the Dashain/Dussehra sacrifice.

Used by
Gurkha regiments (e.g. 4 GR) for the Dashain sacrifice
Total length
Over 60 cm (24 in)
Collector researchKK-040
Full details and sources
Dates
c.1920-1930
Also known as
Dussehra kukri; bali khukuri
How sure we are
Collector consensus (Kunwor)

Full entry in our research paper (PDF, page 40)

Read more

Related on Everest Forge: Blog: Dashain and the kukri/khukuri, Large Blade Kukri/Khukuri

1942to 1943

WWII Emergency Slab-Hilt Kukri/Khukuri

Crude slab hilt; probably made in railway workshops.

Used by
British Indian Army (wartime emergency production)
UncertainKK-019
Full details and sources

Also faked.

Dates
1942-1943
Also known as
Railway-workshop kukri
Makers and marks
Makers SCW, Siraj
How sure we are
Uncertain

Full entry in our research paper (PDF, page 40)

Read more

Related on Everest Forge: Blog: Mk I, Mk II and Mk III explained, Historical Replica Kukri/Khukuri

1943to 1945

Mk III Kukri/Khukuri

No bolster, much larger rivets, sturdier pommel cap, full-width tang under slab wooden grips, more angular blade with a slight hollow grind.

Used by
British Indian Army Gurkha regiments (WWII, Burma)
Blade
c.12.25 in (31 cm)
Weight
19-26 oz (540-740 g)
Collector researchKK-020
Full details and sources

WWII scabbard: rounder black leather, integral frog.

Dates
Feb 1943 (Indian sources) or c.1944 (Kunwor); mass-produced 1944-45
Also known as
Mark III; 'K45' (a 1945 date stamp per most collectors; one seller calls it a Rawalpindi design)
Makers and marks
CMW, WSC, HW, Mil, P.C. Co., Chowdri, DKW; broad arrow over I; dates Also MG (1944). 'M 43' / 'MG-44' style stamps are maker + year.
How sure we are
Collector consensus

Full entry in our research paper (PDF, page 41)

Read more

Related on Everest Forge: WWII Issue Kukri/Khukuri, WWII-Era Chirra Khukuri, Blog: Mk I, Mk II and Mk III explained

1944to 1950

Officer's Mess Kukri/Khukuri on Issue Blade

Standard issue blade (e.g.

Used by
British and Gurkha officers
Collector researchKK-041
Full details and sources

Mk III) re-hilted with a hexagonal ivory or bone handle for the officers' mess or presentation.

Dates
c.1944-1950
Also known as
Ivory- or bone-hilt Mk III
How sure we are
Collector consensus (Kunwor)

Full entry in our research paper (PDF, page 41)

Read more

Related on Everest Forge: Historical Replica Kukri/Khukuri, Blog: Mk I, Mk II and Mk III explained

1947 to today

British Gurkha Service No.1 and No.2, the Indian Gorkha Rifles, the Nepali Army and the Gurkha police units of Singapore and Brunei.

13 patterns

1880sto today

Nepali Army National Issue Kukri/Khukuri

Kept for a soldier's whole career; separate polished parade version.

Used by
Nepali Army (Royal Nepalese Army until 2008)
Blade
c.9 in (23 cm) or c.13 in - sources disagree
Weight
425 g (maker's figure)
UncertainKK-031
Full details and sources

Sources conflict on size (c.9 in vs c.13 in). Royal Nepal Army khukuris with a Sun and Lion mark exist from the late 19th c. (see KK-036).

Dates
Late 19th c.-today (Royal Nepalese Army to 2008, Nepali Army after)
Also known as
Royal Nepalese Army issue (to 2008); Nepal Army khukuri
Makers and marks
Unmarked
How sure we are
Uncertain (conflicting sources)

Full entry in our research paper (PDF, page 42)

Read more

Related on Everest Forge: Nepal Army Training Kukri/Khukuri, Current Issue Military Kukri/Khukuri

1947to today

Indian Army Gorkha Rifles Kukri/Khukuri (Mk III type)

Continuation of the WWII Mk III pattern with riveted full tang and wooden grip.

Used by
Indian Army Gorkha Rifles (e.g. 4/5 GR at Atgram 1971)
Blade
12-13.5 in (30.5-34 cm)
Weight
19-26 oz (540-740 g)
Collector researchKK-028
Full details and sources

No Ordnance Factory production confirmed. The 1947 Tripartite Agreement covers Gorkha soldiers' right to carry the kukri.

Dates
1947-today
Also known as
Gurkha Regimental; Indian Mk III
Makers and marks
WSC, CMW, Chowdri, DKW; 'Allied Steel', 'Tempered Steel Made in India'
How sure we are
Collector consensus

Full entry in our research paper (PDF, page 42)

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Related on Everest Forge: Current Issue Military Kukri/Khukuri, Blog: Mk I, Mk II and Mk III explained

1947to today

Assam Rifles Kukri/Khukuri

Brass lion-head pommel.

Used by
Assam Rifles (claimed)
Blade
13.5 in (34 cm)
UncertainKK-030
Full details and sources

Issue status is a marketing claim only. The force (Assam Military Police from 1882) adopted a crest with two crossed kukris.

Dates
Post-1947 (maker claim)
Also known as
Assam Kukri
Makers and marks
An Indian maker (claim)
How sure we are
Uncertain (maker claim)

Full entry in our research paper (PDF, page 43)

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Related on Everest Forge: Current Issue Military Kukri/Khukuri

1947to today

Officer's Showpiece & Regimental Kothimora Kukri/Khukuri

Thin blades, horn and ivory grips, flat scabbards; silver Regimental Kothimora given on retirement (maker source).

Used by
Officers and senior NCOs; regimental gifts and retirement awards
Collector researchKK-034
Full details and sources

Kukris confirmed as regimental gifts/awards by GWT.

Dates
1947-today (pre-1947 regimental pieces: see KK-042)
Also known as
Presentation kukri; retirement kukri
Makers and marks
Indian and Nepali makers
How sure we are
Collector consensus / maker claim

Full entry in our research paper (PDF, page 43)

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Related on Everest Forge: Kothimora Ceremonial Khukuri, Blog: the kothimora khukuri

1949to today

Singapore Police Gurkha Contingent Kukri/Khukuri

Maker describes a Chainpure-style blade, ace-shaped keeper, no bolster ('2009 issue'), plus an SPF ceremonial model.

Used by
Gurkha Contingent, Singapore Police Force
Blade
11 in (28 cm)
UncertainKK-032
Full details and sources

No official spec found.

Dates
Formed 9 Apr 1949-today
Also known as
SPF Jungle; Gurkha Contingent kukri
Makers and marks
Nepal-based contract makers
How sure we are
Uncertain (maker claim)

Full entry in our research paper (PDF, page 43)

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Related on Everest Forge: Current Issue Military Kukri/Khukuri

1951

Wilkinson Sword 1951 Kukri/Khukuri

About 1,400 made to trial UK production; edge dulled fast, never reordered.

Used by
British Brigade of Gurkhas (Malaya Emergency)
DocumentedKK-022
Full details and sources

Only about a dozen said to survive.

Dates
1951 per Gurkha Museum (some sources 1949-51); Malaya trial
Also known as
Collector 'Mk IV' (not official); 'WSC 51' (Kunwor calls Mk I-V official models)
Makers and marks
Wilkinson Sword
How sure we are
Documented (Gurkha Museum)

Full entry in our research paper (PDF, page 44)

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Related on Everest Forge: Current Issue Military Kukri/Khukuri, Blog: Mk I, Mk II and Mk III explained

1955to today

Indian Standard Issue Kukri/Khukuri

Maker says field knife issued from mid-1950s and a parade knife from late 1960s; made in Dehradun.

Used by
Indian Army Gorkha Rifles (claimed)
Blade
10 in (25.5 cm)
Weight
475 g
UncertainKK-029
Full details and sources

Unverified.

Dates
Mid-1950s-today (maker claim)
Also known as
ISI
Makers and marks
Dehradun makers
How sure we are
Uncertain (maker claim)

Full entry in our research paper (PDF, page 44)

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Related on Everest Forge: Current Issue Military Kukri/Khukuri

1958to 1989

Nepal-Made British Service Kukri/Khukuri (BAS/BSI)

Made in Nepal under annual lowest-bid contracts.

Used by
British Brigade of Gurkhas (Borneo 1962-66, Hong Kong, Falklands 1982)
Total length
c.17 in (43 cm) per Brigade of Gurkhas guide (2000)
Blade
c.11 in (28 cm)
Weight
14-17 oz (400-480 g)
Collector researchKK-023
Full details and sources

'BSI'/'BAS' are trade terms, not official names.

Dates
Late 1950s/early 1960s-1980s
Also known as
Collector 'Mk V'; BSI; BAS
Makers and marks
Nepal-based contract makers
How sure we are
Collector consensus

Full entry in our research paper (PDF, page 44)

Read more

Related on Everest Forge: Current Issue Military Kukri/Khukuri, Blog: kukri tang types

1984to 1988

Dharan 'Ordep Nepal' Kukri/Khukuri

Higher-grade pieces made by Nepali workers at the British Army's Dharan base.

Used by
British Brigade of Gurkhas
Collector researchKK-024
Full details and sources
Dates
Mid-1980s
Also known as
Dharan base kukri
Makers and marks
Stamped 'Ordep Nepal' + date
How sure we are
Collector consensus

Full entry in our research paper (PDF, page 45)

Read more

Related on Everest Forge: Current Issue Military Kukri/Khukuri

1990to 1999

Short British Service Kukri/Khukuri (10.25 in)

Shorter, heavier version common in the 1990s.

Used by
British Brigade of Gurkhas
Blade
10.25 in (26 cm)
Weight
17-19 oz (480-540 g)
Collector researchKK-025
Full details and sources
Dates
c.1990s
Also known as
-
How sure we are
Collector consensus

Full entry in our research paper (PDF, page 45)

Read more

Related on Everest Forge: Current Issue Military Kukri/Khukuri

1991to today

British Gurkha Service No.1 Kukri/Khukuri (parade)

Polished blade, patent-leather scabbard; carried on parade.

Used by
British Brigade of Gurkhas - every recruit gets one
Total length
c.17 in (43 cm) per Brigade of Gurkhas guide (2000)
Blade
10.25 in (26 cm)
Spine
9 mm
Weight
515-585 g
DocumentedKK-026
Full details and sources

Issued with a Service No.2.

Dates
Early 1990s-today
Also known as
Service No.1; current issue
Makers and marks
Nepal-based contract makers (Dharan); maker's mark plus year
How sure we are
Documented (two-kukri issue); blade length disputed (10.25 in maker / 12-13 in Forces News)

Full entry in our research paper (PDF, page 46)

Read more

Related on Everest Forge: Current Issue Military Kukri/Khukuri, Blog: the scabbard (dap) explained

1991to today

British Gurkha Service No.2 Kukri/Khukuri (field)

Unpolished field version.

Used by
British Brigade of Gurkhas - field and exercise
Blade
10.25 in (26 cm)
Spine
9 mm
Weight
515-585 g
DocumentedKK-027
Full details and sources

Maker spec (2022): 5160 steel, buffalo horn handle, rat-tail tang, brass fittings, karda and chakmak. Gurkhas carry no bayonet; the kukri fills that role.

Dates
Early 1990s-today
Also known as
Service No.2; training kukri
Makers and marks
Nepal-based contract makers
How sure we are
Documented (issue); blade length disputed (10.25 in maker / 12-13 in Forces News)

Full entry in our research paper (PDF, page 46)

Read more

Related on Everest Forge: Jungle PRI Training Issue Kukri/Khukuri, Current Issue Military Kukri/Khukuri

Names you will see that are not military patterns
Ang Khola
Civilian / regional style. Traditional village form (seller typology). Not a documented military pattern; fine as a product line, not as 'military issue'.
Chainpure
Civilian / regional style. Regional style name. A Chainpure-style blade is claimed for the Singapore Gurkha Contingent jungle knife (maker claim).
Dhankute
Civilian / regional style. Regional style; no record of supplying the army.
Sirupate (civilian)
Civilian / regional style. The slim village sirupate is distinct from the c.1860-80 Military Sirupate found in the arsenal cache (KK-008).
Bhojpure
Trade name for a military size class. IMA name for Judkins' Short Gurkha Army Kukri (KK-011). Does not prove manufacture in Bhojpur.
Long Leaf / Longleaf
Trade name for a military pattern. IMA name for Judkins' Classic Gurkha Army Kukri (KK-010); also the collector name for pre-1903 British Gurkha kukris (KK-014).
WWI Vintage
Trade label. Atlanta/IMA label for the Late Gurkha Army Kukri (KK-012); Judkins says the label is wrong.
K45 / K-45
Date stamp (disputed). Most collectors: 1945 date stamp on Mk III. One seller: a late-1945 Rawalpindi design.
M43
Maker stamp (disputed). Most likely a maker's stamp on Mk II, not 'Model 1943'.
BSI / BAS
Trade terms. Used for Nepal-made British service kukris and scabbard styles; not official names.
Mk IV / Mk V
Collector labels. Wilkinson 1951 and Nepal-made BSI. No official Mark after Mk III confirmed.
Kothimora
Scabbard / decoration style. Means a decorated (often silver) scabbard; applies to presentation pieces of any era.
Hanshee / Hamsiya
Period type name. Long-hilted fighting khukuri, c.1750-1857 (KK-002).
Iraqi / Afghan
Marketing names. Finger-grooved 'gripper' handle; not issue patterns.
Panawal, Dui Chirra, Gelbu, Chitlange
No evidence found. No source tied these to a military pattern; check before using.

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