kukris

The kukri, also spelled khukuri, is a Nepalese blade with a distinctive forward-curving shape. The blade broadens toward a heavy tip, and the cutting edge runs along the inner curve of the blade. It is typically single-edged and designed for chopping as well as piercing. Blade lengths commonly range from about 15 to 40 centimeters, with handles made of wood, horn, or bone and a guard or bolster to protect the hand. The sheath is usually wood or leather.

Originating in Nepal, the kukri has a long history as both a utilitarian tool and a weapon. It is closely associated with the Nepalese people and with the Gurkhas, who became famous for their use of the blade in warfare. Traditionally used for agricultural tasks, woodworking, and general survival, the kukri also served in military campaigns in the region before and during colonial-era conflicts. In contemporary Nepal, it remains a cultural symbol and is used in ceremonial contexts such as weddings and religious rites, as well as in daily life.

Manufacture and variants: Historically forged by local smiths, modern kukris range from traditional hand-forged blades to mass-produced versions. Contemporary models may emphasize durability, balance, or ornamentation; military and ceremonial variants often feature fuller tangs, decorative fittings, and elaborate sheaths. The term kukri is also used more broadly for similar recurved knives found in neighboring regions.