What is the notch in a kukri for?
The notch in kukri had many traditional and practical purpose. According to traditional belief, the notch near the handle of the blade is a Hindu fertility symbol. It is also the footprint of a cow. So the notch forbids slaughtering sacred animal such as cow with it.
How big is a traditional kukri?
A kukri designed for general purpose is commonly 40–45 cm (16–18 in) in overall length and weighs approximately 450–900 g (1–2 lb).
Can a kukri stab?
The kukri knife can be used to smash, slash or stab. For smashing, the butt of the handle, the flat side of the blade or the spine is used. The curvature and weight of the blade facilitate slashing to such an extent that even a weak stroke will slice the skin.
What are the little knives that come with a kukri?
An average kukri is 14-16 inches long. It comes with two small knives in the top of the scabbard, one is blunt (Chakmak) and the other sharp (Karda). The blunt one is used for starting a fire with a flint and the sharp one is a general purpose knife.
What is an antique kukri knife?
Antique knives, antique kukris have had a few spellings, most common are kukri and khukuri, but basically it’s a mid-length curved knife comprising a distinctive Cho (notch) that is the national knife of Nepal. This shape is believed to have existed 2500 years ago; the Kopis used by the Greeks is the probable source of its design.
Where can I buy a kukri?
What is true is that all traditional kukri’s carry this notch. You can buy original kukri’s from the arsenal of the Royal Nepalese Army as well as find modern day versions and machetes online at Atlanta Cutlery.
Why buy an antique Nepalese kukri?
Historic in every sense of the word, you have the rare opportunity to own a legendary antique Nepalese kukri since originally issued to Gurkha soldiers over a century ago. Discovered in the Royal Palace of Lagan Silekhana in Kathmandu they are real military treasures of a bygone era. Learn more about the ancient Kukri in our learning center.
What is the origin of the Kukri?
This shape is believed to have existed 2500 years ago; the Kopis used by the Greeks is the probable source of its design. In our modern times the kukri really came to prominence outside Nepal with the Nepal War in 1814-15 after the formation of British Gurkha Army.