Gurkha Kukri Knife- Learn the Right Way to Handle and Use It

by Matt Moe Handmade Swords and Knives

“In the world there is only one secure place, that’s when you are between Gurkhas.” – Said Prince Charles

“If I had Gurkhas, no armies in the world would defeat me.”- Quoted by Adolf Hitler

The kukri knife is highly renowned for its iconic downward curved-shaped blade. It is popularly used for piercing, chopping, slashing, and smashing. This utility knife is commonly seen among Nepalese tribes as they are most commonly associated with the “Gurkhas”.

This is how the tool attained its name of “Gurkha kukri.”

History of Kukri Knife

The Gurkha knife weapon dates back to the Anglo-Nepalese War fought in 1814 between the Kingdom of Nepal and the East India Company. Their issues emerged from the border disputes and this lasted till the year 1816. While the Nepalese Gurkha force maintained to remain in a defensive position, the East India Company fought tirelessly in the invading mode.

The war ended with the peace signing Treaty of Sugauli, in which the East India Company included a clause to allow the recruiting of Gurkha warriors into their military ranks in the British forces. The history of kukri knife traces back to the 13th century, making it one of the oldest warrior weapons in the world.

Use of Multi-Purpose Tool- The Gurkha Kukri Knife

The Gurkha troops can be seen roaming around with kukri knife as their identity symbol. Other than weaponry item, it can be effectively used for

Chopping
Carving
Digging
Slaughtering
Severely hurting the enemy
Killing your opponent

How to Handle Gurkha Kukri Knife- Tips On Using It the Right Way

The Gurkha kukri knife is a tool-cum-knife, which requires constant practicing and learning skills to handle it with care. Here are some techniques to use this sharp weapon in a more efficient manner.

Ø GripHolding

This fist position involves extending the thumb straight forward and laying it on top of the closed fist and index finger around the kukri knife handle. This is the perfect use position while combating, exercising, training, and close encountering the enemy.

Ø UpHolding

This practice involves keeping the thumb slightly bent on the kukri knife blade while keeping the fist closed tightly. With this knife holding position, you can exert the force and pressure to swing the knife easily against surfaces. This position helps to push the blade downward especially while cutting, striking, or butchering any jungle animal with this 6" - 10" blade knife.

Ø Drawing Out-from-sheath

While removing out of the sheath, make sure that the blade spine is touching the scabbard’s black surface. At times, the scabbard remains to left opened and turn loose. Make sure you tuck in the blade and push the handle down so that the kukri will get locked in the scabbard.

Handle The Gurkha Knife With Extreme Care And Caution

With the right Gurkha kukri knife handling, the aim is to make it a domestic and self-defense knife and not a lethal tool.