Nepalese kukri knife: the history of the legend. Kukri, legendary knives - weapons of Nepalese warriors for Russian forests

Blade in the shape of a falcon's wing and unusual shape handles instantly attract the attention of not only specialists, but also ordinary fans of edged weapons. Interestingly, no matter how impressive the view kukri, according to Russian laws, it does not fall under the category of edged weapons and, as a result, has no restrictions on sale and possession. This impressively sized knife can be easily carried or carried with you without any permits or other formalities, like any other household item. Anyone over 18 years of age can purchase kukri.

TRIPLE KUKRI. The Nepalese kukri is a very ancient instrument, but its unusual shape still attracts attention today. Mentions of this knife are found in documentary and fiction, it can be seen in films and television shows. Even in toys there are glimpses of familiar-shaped blades.

The design of the kukri is quite complex. Each element of this knife, as well as the sheath attached to it, has not only a special practical load, but also enormous symbolic meaning, which is why all of them have long been given special names. For example, the rings on the handle of a knife, which secure the entire structure and help the owner hold the knife in the correct grip, symbolize the levels of the universe according to the interpretations of Hinduism. And the unusual blade, on which the sharpening is applied not along the inner curved side, but along the outer side, symbolizes the sun and the moon, which are designed to give their strength to both the blade and its owner.

Curved in reverse side the blade has a well-hardened, hard cutting surface, but at the same time remains elastic, resilient and far from fragile. This knife will not break under extreme loads. Even if the cutting edge crumbles, the blade itself will remain intact. Blade sharpening varies. Closer to the handle, it is “knife-shaped”, with a small angle - such a blade is convenient for cutting, it can be sharpened to a razor sharpness. Towards the end of the blade, the sharpening angle becomes larger, as on cutlasses or even axes - this part is more suitable for chopping. Thus, we get two specialized tools on one blade. The thickness of the blade is quite large: for medium-sized kukris with a blade length of 9-10 inches, it can reach 10 mm or more. With such a thickness Nepalese knife It turns out quite heavy, but that’s how it’s intended. The force of a kukri blow depends not so much on the owner’s muscles, but on the inertia of the blow: it needs to be given good acceleration, and then the heavy and durable blade will do all the work.

The fuller (2) on the blade can be deep and simple, or maybe small, in the form of an ornate pattern. It is called the “Sword of Shiva”, its function is to absorb loads during chopping. In addition, it helps to defeat enemies and protects against evil spirits.

An interesting element of the blade is the groove (4) at its base. Its name is “Tooth of Shiva”. There are similar notches on our axes, but the shape of the kukri is still special. This could be the trident of Shiva, the symbol of the goddess Kali, or the footprint of a sacred cow. Regardless of its shape, this recess performs the “anti-stress” function very well. And finally, the pommel of the handle (5). Usually it is metal, the shank is riveted on it, sometimes a rhombus is visible on it - the All-Seeing Eye, a symbol of God protecting the owner.

The handle of the classic kukri (3) does not have a guard, although this is found in commercial versions. The explanation for this is quite simple: the kukri is not very suitable for stabbing, its element is chopping. It is also convenient for them to inflict cuts, but bayonet strikes are clearly not for him, which means there is no need for a guard. In addition, in a classic Nepalese knife, the handle is solid, of an original shape, with thickenings in the middle for comfortable holding.

Usually the kukri is equipped with a sheath, which consists of two wooden inserts covered with leather. In addition, the classic model comes with two additional small knives: one sharp (karda), intended for small household work, the second dull (chakmak), used as a musat for editing kukri.

Two additional knives: one for small work, the second for editing kukri.

Kukri terminology

Kukri Blade

Keeper (Hira Jornu): Washer: a metal (copper) plate processed with a diamond file on which the shank is riveted.
Butt Cap (Chapri): A thick metal (copper) plate that usually protects the handle from a strong blow.
Tang (Paro): Tang: The rear portion of the blade that extends through the hilt.
Bolster (Kanjo): Bolster: a thick metal (copper) oval molded plate between the blade and the hilt, used to support and strengthen the blade in the hilt.
Spine (Beet): Butt: The thickest blunt edge of the blade.
Fuller/Groove (Khol): Fuller: straight groove or deep line, which runs along the top of the butt.
Peak (Juro): Apex of the blade: the highest point of the blade.
Main body (Eng): Main blade: the main surface of the blade.
Fuller (Chirra): Curve in the blade designed to absorb shock and reduce unnecessary weight.
Tip (Toppa): Tip: The starting point of the blade.
Edge (Dhaar): Cutting edge: the sharp edge of a blade.
Belly (Bhundi): Belly: The widest part of the blade.
Bevel (Patti): Sharpening: slope from the main body of the blade to the cutting edge.
Cho/Notch (Kaudi): Cho: a technological hole (trident-shaped) located on the edge of the blade and used to relieve stress in the metal.
Rings (Harhari): Ring: round groove in the handle.
Rivet (Khil): Rivet: A steel or metal piece used to secure and hold the handle.
Tang Tail (Puchchar): Tang: The final point of the Kukri blade.

Sheath

Frog (Faras): Suspension: leather band covering the neck, made of thick leather (2-4 mm).
Upper Edge (Mathillo Bhaag): Upper edge: the upper curve of the sheath, adjusted to the shape of the Kukri blade.
Main Body (Sharir): Main surface: the surface of the sheath, semi-oval in cross-section.
Chape (Khothi): Scabbard: a sharp metal tip used to protect the top of the blade.
Loop (Golie): Loop: leather band for waist belt ( component suspension).
Throat (Mauri): Mouth: the entrance to the blade sheath.
Lower Edge (Tallo Bhag): Curvature of the scabbard.

#Polished. Polished version. The polished version of the Kukri blade goes through many stages of processing, including high heat, which leads to a slight weakening of the hardness of the blade. Recommended preferably for exhibitions, decoration and easy work.
#SemiPolished. Semi polished version. The semi-polished version undergoes three stages of processing to achieve the result. High-temperature treatment of the blade is somewhat more moderate, recommended for exhibitions and medium-intensity work.
#Unpolished. Unpolished version. The unpolished version is best for heavy duty work because its hardness remains unchanged. The blade is only sandblasted and mechanically polished - to obtain a result while maintaining the basic mechanical properties.
#Fuller/Groove. Blade bend. The curve of the blade, which runs along the main surface of the blade, is made for two purposes: to reduce unnecessary weight of the blade and to resist the direct impact of the opposite blade. The curvature evenly distributes the force produced by the reciprocating motion towards the spine of the blade and reduces stress. The more curved version of the blade is recommended for heavy, strenuous work.
#Full Flat Tang (Dotted/Panawal). Handle shank. The blade tang is flat, extends completely through the handle and is protected by guards secured with steel rivets on both sides. At the same time, the tang is visible from the top and bottom of the handle.
#Rat Tail Tang (Normal/Sada). Blade section. The blade has a diamond-shaped cross-section irregular shape: with a more obtuse angle in the butt and more acute angle at the tip of the blade (a type of wedge sharpening).

Types of Nepalese kukris

The classification of kukri knives is quite complex, because both in Nepal and in India many different ones are made (in terms of size and nuances). appearance) models. Moreover, it is made by hand. Consequently, even the knives of the same master have differences. But we can still highlight several of the most popular and widespread models.

Bhojpure

This is a weighty model, most suitable for peasant labor and household use. The Bhojpur kukri blade reaches 8-10 mm at the spine, has a wide “belly” and a large (up to 40 degrees) bend. Knives of this design were also used by regular troops in the 19th and early 20th centuries. It is considered the most universal model.

Sirupati

Kukri sirupati is much lighter and thinner than bhojpur. This particular model has a blade similar to the leaf of the Nepalese Siru tree. The knife is very convenient and elegant. The blade has sharper slopes (compared to the Bhojpur blade), and there are even fullers. It is used by both the local population and the military, police, and firefighters. Martial artists who achieve perfection ancient battle kukris also prefer sirupati knives.

Angkhola

The name of this kukri literally translates as “concave back.” The base of the blade of this knife is thinner than that of the first two models, and the center of gravity is shifted even more towards the tip. The bend angle is even greater than that of Bhojpur. The knife is great for chopping.

Buttewal

The name of the knife comes from the word “bata” - pattern. This is a ceremonial parade kukri. The blade is certainly decorated with elegant ornaments; the handles can be made of silver and even gold. Supplied with a scabbard of stunning finishing work. A Gurkha warrior receives such a knife as a gift when he retires.

Having been a fan of knives in the past, over time my attitude towards knife topics has become more relaxed. The knife became for me more of a tool for solving its inherent problems and an element of equipment than an object of desire, as is usually the case among “knife-maniacs”. But the love for certain types of knives still remains. And one of these knives was the Nepalese kukri knife.

History of the Nepalese kukri knife

Kukri is a knife of Nepalese Gurkhas. Nepalese Gurkhas are famous for their fearlessness and high moral endurance. Elite Squad Gurkhas served the Queen of England from the 19th century, took part in both world wars, and local conflicts with UK participation. And if the katana is a symbol Japanese samurai, then the symbol of the Nepalese Gurkhas is the kukri, which is their combat knife. Skillful handling of kukri and high damaging properties This type of knife helped the Gurkhas become famous during night raids, close combat and trench warfare.

Kukri, otherwise spelled khukri or khukuri (khukri or khukuri) - there is no consensus on this matter. But the most common is kukri or khukri. I suggest sticking with the simplest option - kukri.

Kukri is a traditional Nepalese knife, the first mention of which dates back to the last era. The samples preserved in museums date back to the 14th-15th centuries. Thus, kukri is one of the ancient types of bladed weapons that have survived to this day practically unchanged.

At the moment, kukri is included in the equipment of the military and police.

The Nepalese knife is a curved blade, sharpened on the inside. Like any ancient weapons, kukri has not only design features, but also symbolic.

1 - blade with zone hardening (for large kukri models)

2 - dol, is called "Sword of Shiva". Serves to increase shock-absorbing properties when cutting and reduce the weight of the blade.

3 - kukri handle

4 - rings on the handle serve to better hold the knife and symbolize the levels of the universe

5 - Blade edge with variable sharpening angle, ensuring efficiency in chopping and cutting blows.

6 - “Tooth of Shiva” - or Cho, symbolizes the trident of the god of strength and destruction. It is not only symbolic, but also relieves tension in the metal during cutting. In the absence of Shiva’s tooth, it is in this place that the blade may chip when chopping. Also, a finger was pricked on this trident of war to stain the blade with blood (according to some sources). Instead of a trident, Cho is sometimes made in the form of the symbol of the goddess Kali, or the footprint of a sacred cow.

7 - The metal top of the handle allows you to more securely hold the kukri in your hand when chopping, closes the end of the shank in the handle and symbolizes the all-seeing eye of God.

Nepalese kukri manufacturing technology

To make a kukri blade in Nepal, they mainly use steel from old car springs. Thanks to zone hardening, the butt is soft, its hardness is only 35-45 HRC, and the hardness of the blade is 55-58 HRC. Zone hardening makes the blade insensitive to impact loads. The sharpening angle is minimum at the base and maximum in the middle of the blade.

All steel is inspected for chips and the best specimens are selected. As a rule, 4 people are involved in the production of one copy of kukri. Almost all operations are performed by craftsmen manually. The art of making kukri is passed down from generation to generation from a very young age.

The workpiece is heated red-hot in a coal furnace, after which the forging of the blade shape begins.

After forging the shape of the blade, Shiva's tooth is knocked out

The next step is for the master to pour water onto the blade of the hot blade for hardening. The manipulation is very delicate, since the water should only get on the blade. Next comes the formation of the blade shape and primary sharpening.

Knocking out the fullers and turning the shank

Shaping the handle and fitting onto the tang using epoxy resin from Lach wood.

Planing the wooden halves for the sheath and dressing the water buffalo leather for the sheath.

Leather covering of wooden scabbard halves

Kukri are usually equipped with two small knives, which are also placed in a sheath. One blunt one, in the form of an abrasive - chakmak, intended for sharpening, and the second -card (karda) for small household work. This reminds me of something

There are several varieties of kukri, differing in size, weight and angle of curvature of the butt, but they are all united by a common curved shape, which cannot be confused with other types of knives. Universal kukri models weigh 450-900 g with a length of 200 - 350 mm. The thickness of the butt above the convex middle part The blade can reach 10 mm, the concave shape of the blade and the balancing shifted towards the tip allows you to deliver powerful cutting blows due to inertia, and not the strength of the fighter.

According to the classification, the kukri occupies a place between a large heavy knife and a light ax. The Kukri is ideal as a large survival knife. With such a knife you can build a shelter and clear a road in the thickets. It is more compact than a machete and more versatile. In Nepal, it is not only a combat knife, it is also used by ordinary peasants for household work, and even by women in the kitchen.

In addition to directly Nepalese kukri, there are models from various manufacturers on sale, ranging from Chinese ones, like Pirat and Viking Nordway, to famous brands like Cold Steel. All these models, as a rule, do not have Shiva's tooth.

Article: Alexander Lopukhov “Once again about the kukri (Nepalese knife in Russia)” (www.kalashnikov.ru/download.php?view.145), “Russian weapons magazine” “Kalashnikov” (www.kalashnikov.ru), No. 1 for 2009 (www.kalashnikov.ru/download.php?list.18), pages 96-100.

This is the first publication of this article in text format.

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Two years have passed since I acquired the famous and fabulous kukri knives from the equally fabulous and amazing place- Nepal. Somehow it happened that they didn’t live with me for long. One was taken by the son, a young hunter, the boss liked the other so much that you know, he had to give it as a birthday present. And after some time I got bored.

One way to wear a kukri while hunting:

After I parted with the kukri knives, a movie specially came out - with Milla Jovovich in leading role, where her heroine runs around with one of the kukri options throughout the film. A book by my favorite author V. Zykov has been published, where main character uses kukri, and the talented artist Oleg Yudin very realistically and competently depicted this knife on the cover of the book. In a word, I couldn’t resist and ordered two models of kukri knives from the online store. One option is the heavy worker Panawal Power UNP, the other is a combat version with a beautiful national appliqué on a Gandjawala leather sheath and a whole set of different interesting little things that supposedly help you survive in extreme conditions. There are tweezers, an awl, a spatula, and even a pencil made in India, and a leather insert, the purpose of which remains a mystery to me, and of course the obligatory traditional set of two items: Chakmak and Karda ). If I had to mention these objects and their sophisticated names, then let me remind the reader what is what in kukri terminology. But first, a little history.

With a certain skill, a knife allows you to confidently chop vines:

Kukri or in other spellings and sounds khukri and kukuri is a national knife, is in service with the Nepalese Gurkhas and is an almost indispensable piercing and chopping tool in the hands of the local population. There are lightweight models used by the police, and there are richly decorated ceremonial models. One thing is constant in all models - the shape of the blade, reminiscent of a “falcon wing”, with sharpening along a concave edge. There is a version of historians that kukri comes from the Greek kopis, which has a similar curve of the blade, and came to Nepal with the army of Alexander the Great in the 4th century BC. e. According to another version, this blade shape came from Africa in the 6th century BC. e. and rapidly spreading throughout the Balkans and Central Asia, influenced the shape of the scimitar. Kukri is often confused with a machete, but this is incorrect. A machete is a rather long and thin piece of iron used for cutting sugar cane. Cold Steel produces a number of machetes, including ones shaped like kukris, but this pathetic fake, made in South Africa, cannot stand any comparison with the original. Anyone who has ever seen and held a real Nepalese kukri in their hands will never confuse it with anything else. The National Museum of Nepal houses the most ancient kukri exhibit, dating back to the 14th-15th centuries. At the same time, the museum sample is practically no different from modern kukri knives.

Nepalese kukri knife “Panawal Power UNP” (© photo from www.kukri.ru/katalog/products/nepalskie-kukri/-10-british-service-no1):

- total length: 412.8 mm;
- blade length: 266.7 mm;
- handle length: 146.7 mm;
- S butt: 12.7 cm.
Sheath: wooden, covered with water buffalo leather, with a metal tip.
Equipment: knife, sheath, chakma, card.

The production of kukri knives is somewhat semi-artisanal, but this is not a drawback for knife lovers and connoisseurs (at least for me personally). When you take a kukri in your hands, you feel the warmth of the hands of the blacksmith who forged this blade. Not soulless modern CNC machines, but rather the hoary old days of the era of great conquests, when humanity did not yet know gunpowder, and it was the skill and strength of a particular fighter that came to the fore, when edged weapons reigned on the battlefields. There is something subtly Vedic in these knives. And there are no two identical blades, even of the same model - some little thing, but they still differ from each other and that’s great. Each characteristic element of kukri has not only practical, but also symbolic meaning. A decorative pattern in the form of a groove, mistakenly called a bloodstream, is called the “sword of Shiva” - it serves to stiffen and increase the shock-absorbing properties of the blade, giving the kukri the power of the weapon of the god Shiva. The transverse rings on the handle ensure a confident hold of the blade even in a wet hand and symbolize the levels of the universe. The variable-angle blade provides maximum efficiency for slashing, cutting and piercing attacks and symbolizes the Sun and Moon, the traditional symbols of Nepal. The notch on the blade near the handle is called “cho” and comes in two types: an open groove, “Trident of Shiva,” the main attribute of the power of this god, and a closed groove, “cow trail” or “Kali’s hoof,” is a symbol of the goddess Kali. In practice, “cho” serves to relieve stress in the metal and prevents the formation of cracks and chips of the blade at the handle. After all, it is in this place that the maximum tension occurs when a chopping blow is struck by a blade. hard objects. The metal cap on the head of the handle symbolizes the all-seeing eye of God, and in practice covers the tip of the blade's tang, which passes through the entire handle and can be used as a striking weapon or tool. Kukri are usually worn in a wide wooden sheath, covered with water buffalo skin and bound with metal. The handle is traditionally made from waxed rosewood or water buffalo horn. Typically, a kukri set includes two items - a carda and a hakama or chakma. A carda is a small knife for small jobs, a chakma is a dull piece of steel with a handle, which is used to straighten the cutting edge like a musat and, complete with a flint, to light a fire.

Nepalese kukri knife “Gandjawala” (© photo from www.kukri.ru/katalog/products/nepalskie-kukri/new-10-gandjawala):

Technical characteristics of Panawal Power UNP knives:
- total length: 349.5 mm;
- blade length: 228.6 mm;
- handle length: 120.7 mm;
- S butt: 6.4 cm.
Scabbard: wooden, covered with water buffalo leather with appliqué national theme and a metal cap on the tip.
Equipment: knife, sheath, chakma, card, pencil, awl, tweezers, spatula, leather insert.

The blade of a traditional kukri is not only sharpened with a variable angle, but also zone hardened. The spine of the blade is hardened much softer than the edge of the blade. The butt is 46-48 HRC, the cutting edge is about 55-57 HRC. This hardening plus the traditional forging technique, passed on by Nepalese blacksmiths from generation to generation, allows a blade of such an exotic shape to not only cut surprisingly easily, but also chop hard materials without fear of splitting or damaging the blade.

Kukri terminology:

For example, while hunting, I cut through a vine as thick as an adult man’s arm in one fell swoop and with almost no effort. True, I won’t lie, in order to effectively use kukri, you need to understand it. Understand the technique and dynamics of the chopping blow of this interesting blade. The blow must be delivered at a certain angle and with a draw, like a blow with a Cossack saber. Then the blow will be as effective and efficient as possible. Of course, the blade is quite heavy and carrying it during a bunny hunt is somewhat inconvenient, but when going hunting or in the wild by car and in cases where there is no need to go far from the camp, the kukri is very convenient and attractive - a direct competitor to our traditional tourist hatchet . Splinters for the fire, you can cut kukri, if not faster, then, in any case, more safely than with a hatchet, that’s for sure. With a hatchet you have to hold the piece of wood with one hand, and with the other you carefully split off the splinters from it. It is not always possible to split a tree with the force of a brush; you have to lightly hit the tree with a hatchet, and this is fraught with injury, which is quite dangerous in the field. My friend cut his left hand in such a way, it’s good that it cost only a plaster cast and a severed tendon, but it could have been worse.

Kukri, when preparing torches, occupies both hands. The right one holds the handle, and the left one grabs and rests on the butt. By pressing your body weight from top to bottom, it is very convenient to plan the splinters. In a similar way, only by moving towards myself, I sanded the pine rafters for the barn in the country. The blade is wide, so you don't have to worry about cuts. I don’t smoke, but when hunting and in the forest I always take matches or a lighter with me, an incident with my friend, also a hunter, taught me this. Last winter (the weather was relatively calm that day) we decided to check out a nearby forest. The huntsman claimed to have seen wolves there. We mounted the snowmobiles and set out to explore. We thought now we’d quickly go back and forth, and that would be the end of it, and only then, if the facts and the huntsman’s guesses were confirmed, we’d gather a brigade and seriously take on the gray robbers. But we assumed it this way, but the Lord had it differently. At first it snowed lightly, then the snow fell in large flakes and in the end a real blizzard broke out. As a result, we lost sight of each other. Out of naivety, since we didn’t plan to be away for long, we didn’t take anything other than guns and cartridges. I still managed to retrace my steps, but my friend got a little lost. They searched for him half the night, everything worked out. But without food and matches he had a very hard time. Now, taught by bitter experience, we carry the so-called full ammunition: chocolate, hunting matches, a GPS navigator, a knife, and I also fell in love with one simple and light little thing - a flint in combination with a “smack” easily produces a spark and this good addition to matches, at least for me it’s calmer - “after being burned on milk, you blow on water.” On snowmobiles I always take a kukri with me, here the weight is not critical, and the benefits are obvious.

I will disappoint those who like to open a can of stew with a blade - it’s inconvenient, the kukri blade is large, thick and curved, and given that it is very sharp, you can simply cut your hand to the bone. I would like to dwell separately on the care of the blade and sheath. Since the blade is traditionally forged from high-carbon steel, it is naturally susceptible to corrosion, and the wooden sheath covered with natural water buffalo leather is subject to warping and shrinkage when exposed to high humidity and subsequent drying. Therefore, after, or even better before and after hunting or simply being outside with a blade, especially in autumn-winter bad weather, the blade and sheath should be treated with a moisture-repellent and lubricating composition. Initially, a new knife and sheath are coated with a waxy lubricant (presumably similar in composition to carnauba wax), but over time, with constant wearing and use of the knife, this coating wears off. The blade begins not only to rust (I’ve never let it get to this point), but to become covered with a gray coating, and the leather on the sheath becomes hard and becomes shaggy when worn.

Preparation of splinters:

There are several options for protecting your knife and sheath. You can soak the sheath with natural beeswax, heated in a water bath. I personally prefer to wipe both the blade and the sheath with German Ballistol spray from Klever. The composition is universal and completely harmless to both metal and skin. The metal is covered with a protective film and does not corrode, and the leather sheath becomes soft and elastic. I have been using this lubricant for many years, cleaning my gun, lubricating the leather bandolier, and treating the sheath - and it has never let me down, so I recommend it. There is a small truth negative side this lubricant is very sharp and bad smell. This is important not only for the hunter of a sensitive animal, but also at home: the spouse is not very loyal to this smell. Therefore, I treat the knife or bandoleer in advance, at the dacha or in the garage, and give it time to air out. One treatment of the leather lasts for a couple of years; after damp and humid weather, you need to refresh it with a light wipe.

Starting a fire using flint and smack:

Naturally, I process the blade more often, as needed. I sharpen the blades using a belt grinder, and straighten the cutting edge with ordinary kitchen grinder. I am often asked by friends, hunters, all those who are partial to edged weapons and are vagabonds and romantics at heart: “Can’t you get by with a traditional tourist hatchet?” Yes, of course you can! But is it worth denying yourself the pleasure of owning such an interesting knife?!

Sharpening kukri on a belt sander:

In general, I am very pleased with our legislation. A blade with a stop or guard more than 5 mm and a blade length of 15 cm is a weapon, and a Nepalese combat blade, but without a stop (the traditional design does not require a guard or stop, although there are some in the modern version) is certified as a household item. Wonderful are your works, Lord, especially in Russia. So, friends, hurry up to purchase such a miracle before it is transferred to the category of weapons and begins to be sold under a “firearms” permit.

During breaks between hunts, a pair of real fighting Nepalese kukris decorates the interior, sitting on the carpet surrounded by a checker, a whip, Cossack dagger, hunting horn and other hunting and Cossack attributes, causing delight and admiration in the male half and a slight squeal of fear and excitement (I suppose, who will understand these women?) in the female half. And now, I won’t give my blades to anyone.

खुकुरी) is the national form of knife used by the Nepalese Gurkhas.

The kukri blade has a characteristic “falcon wing” profile with a sharpening along a concave edge (that is, it is a knife with the so-called “reverse bend”). Kukri is thought to come from the Greek kopis, which has a similar curve, and came to Nepal with the army of Alexander the Great in the 4th century BC. e.

According to another version, characteristic shape a curved blade sharpened on the inside was brought to Greece from Africa in the 6th century BC. BC, and from there it spread to the Balkans and the Middle East, influencing the shape of the scimitar and a number of knives in the region.

Regardless of the source of origin, khukri is one of the most ancient types of bladed weapons that has survived to this day without major changes.

The most ancient kukri is kept in the National Museum of Nepal and dates back to approximately the 14th-15th centuries; museum samples are practically no different from those made now. Earlier samples have not survived due to the low-quality metal used in them.

Each characteristic element of kukri has not only practical, but also symbolic meaning. So, for example, the dol near the butt is called “Shiva’s Sword” and gives the kukri the power of the weapon of the god Shiva. The rings on the handle ensure a confident hold of the kukri in a wet hand and symbolize the levels of the universe. The blade has a variable sharpening angle for maximum efficiency in slashing, slashing and piercing attacks and symbolizes the Sun and Moon - traditional symbols of Nepal. The notch on the blade near the handle is called wow and it happens various shapes, and usually means the trident of Shiva - the main attribute and symbol of the power of this god. Other form wow- “trace of a cow”, is a symbol of the goddess Kali (the cow is a sacred animal in Hinduism). Practical meaning wow- prevent the formation of cracks and chipping of the blade at the handle. For kukri who do not have wow, produced for example in America, the most common defect is the breaking off of the blade at the handle (this area of the blade bears the maximum load during a chopping blow on a hard target). The metal pommel on the head of the handle symbolizes the all-seeing eye of God, and in in practical terms covers the tip of the blade tang, which runs through the entire handle, and allows the kukri handle to be used as a hammer.

The kukri is worn in a wide wooden sheath, covered with water buffalo skin and bound with metal. The handle of the khukri is traditionally made from rosewood or water buffalo horn.

Usually, in addition to the kukri itself, the kit includes two smaller knives - card And hackma. The first is a knife for small work, the second is a dull piece of steel with a handle, which serves, in particular, for starting a fire.

The blade of a traditional kukri is not only sharpened with a variable angle, but also zone hardened. At the butt of the blade, the blade is much softer than at the edge of the blade. Kukri is characterized by hardness values of 25-27 HRC at the butt, 46-48 HRC in the middle of the blade and 55-57 HRC at the edge of the blade, or 57-58 HRC at the butt and about 60 HRC at the edge of the blade. The traditional forging technique, passed down from generation to generation by Nepalese blacksmiths, helps maintain the elasticity of the blade at such high hardness. kami.

Kukris are divided into four groups:

Catrimoras- richly decorated, ceremonial knife;

Bunspati And Sirupati, which are used only as military weapon, not as a tool for household work, they are characterized by a simple narrow blade with one bend;

Ang Khola And Bhojpuri used as a working tool: they have a very thick (up to a centimeter) blade, shaped like a wide leaf;

Janawar Katne - special kind kukri, at least 40 cm long and with a less thick blade.

Links

Himalayan Imports
Making Nepalese combat knives khukuri (kukri, khukri) (English)

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See what “Kukri” is in other dictionaries:

kukri- Gurkha combat knife with a heavy curved blade about 30 cm long with a blade on the concave side. [GOST R 51215 98] Subjects cold weapons General terms combat hunting knives … Technical Translator's Guide

They were considered the weapon of real warriors. Such blades existed in different cultures, but only a small part of them has survived to this day. Among them there are weapons like a machete, which can be called a combat weapon with a big stretch, since its main purpose is to chop vines and reeds. But the Nepalese kukri is a real military combat knife.

What is a kukri knife?

The history of the kukri knife still has many blank spots. This massive combat knife with a curved blade, used today by the police in Nepal, is considered a household knife in Russia. But even an inexperienced layman needs only one look at a kukri to understand that this is a real military weapon.

Even state emblem Until 2006, Nepal was decorated with two kukri knives, symbolizing the traditional weapons of the Gurkha army, used by them in close combat. There is often debate about the correct name for this weapon:

Kukri, which sounds more familiar to a resident of Russia;
Or khukri, as Nepali language experts insist on.

One way or another, both of these names refer to the same thing. Its origins can be traced back to the ancient Greeks, because it was them traditional swords most likely served as the basis for these Nepalese weapons.

The Nepal Army Military Standard clearly states that not all kukri knives are military weapons. Only the following models are recognized as combat models in the army:

Having a total length of 15 inches;
The weight of the weapon should be about 600 grams.

The remaining kukri models, which differ in size and weight, can be used both for ritual purposes and for agricultural work. Currently, the traditional Gurkha knife is used as a weapon by the following Nepalese units:

Nepal Armed Forces;
Nepal Police;
Gurkha military units of the British Army.

In addition, the Nepalese knife has long been a symbol of the country for numerous tourists. A huge number of traditional Nepalese knives are sold for export every year.

History of kukri

The Nepalese knife is one of the most ancient types of bladed weapons that has survived to this day in its original form. Nepalese believe that they had these knives at the dawn of centuries, and the first examples of kukri were taken from the brave Macedonians by ancient Nepalese warriors. Of course, this is nothing more than a beautiful legend, since the Greek phalanx was invulnerable to the wild Nepalese tribe, even if you believe that they once met.

In any case, drawings of weapons that look like kukri can be made from models of traditional weapons of the following peoples:

Sword of the ancient Greeks;
Turkish scimitar.

A blow with a curved massive blade in the shape of a “falcon wing” is much more powerful than the same blow with a straight blade. In Nepalese museums, the oldest examples of traditional knives date back to only the 14th century. Although there are references in written sources starting from the 7th century.

The dimensions of the ancient kukri knife do not exceed modern analogues. The Gurkhas, who previously took part in military skirmishes with England, clearly demonstrated the power of this blade - they cut off heads with one blow.

Design features of the Nepalese blade

The Nepalese fighting knife, which is the kukri, is a long blade curved inward. The blade shape is called "falcon wing". The kukri blade is sharpened only on the inside. In addition to the unusual angle, the knife also has zone hardening. Since the Nepalese knife is an ancient type of bladed weapon, some of its elements also have symbolic meaning. The features of any large kukri are as follows:

The kukri blade is zone hardened. It is softer near the butt, and harder closer to the blade;
Dol is called the “sword of Shiva”. This is the main attribute of the kukri, which should give the weapon magical properties;
The handle of the traditional kukri is made from buffalo horn. This is not the most best option, since the horn is prone to cracking;
The rings on the handle symbolize the levels of the universe. They serve to make it more comfortable for the hand to hold a weapon, although in practice these rings can simply rub the palm into bloody calluses;
The edge of the blade running from the inside has different sharpening angles. This is done so that the blade can not only cut down enemies, but also perform various household work. Each part of the blade is used for a different purpose;
The notch on the blade near the hilt is the so-called “Shiva’s tooth”. It should relieve metal stress during operation, preventing damage to the weapon. According to some reports, it was on this place that the fingers of the Gurkhas were pricked before the battle;
On the other side of the horn handle there is a pommel made of brass or copper, intended for driving nails or chopping nuts. Although soft metal is still not very suitable for these purposes;
The blade's spine is about 12 mm thick.

It is the thickness of the metal that gives the Gurkha combat knife such power. At the same time, cutting blows are not very effective, but chopping blows are beyond competition.

Sacred meaning of kukri for Gurkhas

Each unusual element of a Nepalese combat knife has its own meaning. For example, the triangular shape of the blade's cross-section represents the three gods of Hinduism. In addition, other weapon elements indicate the following:

The blade itself, which has different sharpening angles, symbolizes the sun and moon;
The metal recess near the handle symbolizes the trident of the god Shiva, which in India is considered a symbol of power. This notch is called “cho” and can also have the shape of a cow’s footprint. In this case, she symbolizes the goddess Kali;
The top of the handle is called the “eye of God.” It should help the owner of the weapon in battle.

Need to know that modern models Kukri, which are sold in local Nepalese shops, are not always made in accordance with sacred rules. For this reason, for a tourist who wants to touch a real legend, it is very important to examine the knife to ensure that all the necessary design elements are present. As for advice on choosing, the metal for knives is ordinary spring steel, and local craftsmen often save on shanks.

Now there are models that have an all-metal handle, with wood or horn overlays. These are not identical knives, but they are much more reliable. The kukri sheath has compartments to accommodate two additional knives. One of them is a working tool intended for work, and the second is used for editing. This knife will not help you fully sharpen the blade of your kukri, but it will cope with straightening out minor kinks.

Using kukri in combat

Although at the beginning of the 19th century edged weapons in Europe had long since lost their leading position, when the British army tried to conquer Nepal, it had to face the traditional kukri knives of the local population. Due to the fact that Nepal was a backward country, most Gurkhas had only these weapons.

The contempt of the British soldiers for the “savages with crooked pieces of iron” quickly gave way, first to respect, and then to horror. Even Gurkha soldiers armed with outdated rifles, having used up all their ammunition, grabbed kukris and rushed into battle. It was at that time that legends about this ancient knife began to spread among the European population.

Local residents from early years trained in traditional knife fighting, and the kukri was the local equivalent of the machete that every peasant had. In addition, there is information about the existence of an entire combat school called “kukri”. It is unknown whether this is true or a publicity stunt, but people trained to wield these weapons from childhood can be very dangerous indeed to their enemies.

Gurkhas are not quite typical Indians, who are quite peaceful people who try to avoid violence. A Gurkha raised in the traditional style will avoid combat conflict, he may even run away, but if he takes out a knife, he will definitely strike. Having killed the enemy, he will not feel remorse, because he was raised that way.

Why is kukri needed in peacetime?

For residents of Nepal traditional knife The kukri is not only a weapon. For the peasants and mountaineers of Nepal, it replaces the ax. Since many locals live in light huts, the kukri is used as a construction tool to cut vines and bamboo stalks. In addition, this weapon is part of the equipment of local hunters who clear paths in the jungle for them.

However, you should not think that the same knife is used for fighting and for cutting cane. Real military weapons will never be used as an agricultural tool. For this there are more simple models, which do not carry any sacred meaning.

Currently, kukris are sold as souvenirs. These are the knives that tourists bring from Nepal. Typically this is low quality products, which can only be hung on the wall. Numerous tests have proven that most blades are too soft, and the handles fall apart the first time they work on wood. Although kukris are made of better quality for the local army and police.

If a person is faced with the task of buying not just a souvenir, but a real working tool, then he needs to look for it from local blacksmiths. In this case, the shank should be through, or better yet, an all-metal handle, with wooden or horn linings. If identity is not the main parameter, then it is better to order a Nepalese knife from domestic blacksmiths who use high-quality steel when forging.

Currently, souvenir knives are produced in the following countries:

Nepal;
Pakistan;
China;
Indonesia.

Pakistani knives made from Damascus look the most beautiful. Do not delude yourself about its quality; as a rule, it is inferior even to good carbon steel.

Myths and reality regarding the kukri knife

Nowadays, there are many legends associated with traditional Nepalese weapons. The funniest of them is the legend that says that it was possible to hunt tigers with a kukri. The hunter would sneak up on the sleeping predator and kill it with one hand. For those who are at least minimally familiar with the habits of predatory animals, it is obvious that it is impossible to sneak up close to a tiger. A huge predator will simply tear the hunter in half. Even armed modern rifle It is not recommended for a person to hunt a tiger alone.

The next legend says that a kukri, when unsheathed, must taste blood. If it was not possible to hit the enemy with it, the Gurkha had to cut his finger. In fact, this is only true if the person has undergone a ritual “Death Ceremony”. In other cases, any work could be done with a knife.

Another legend says that the kukri handle with an iron butt can be used as a hammer. In fact, it can only be used in this way in the most extreme cases, but you need to be prepared that the handle may fall apart.

Kukri knife manufacturing technology

A real Nepalese knife must be made only by hand, and the blade must be hardened by zones. This should save the long blade from chipping and destruction. You can invent different versions, related to hardening, but in reality everything is banal. The steel is of poor quality, hence the thickness of the blade and its zone hardening. Real kukri is made by hand by several Nepalese blacksmiths. Such a knife will cost accordingly, because it is not a souvenir, but a real weapon.

I am interested in martial arts with weapons and historical fencing. I am writing about weapons and military equipment, because it is interesting and familiar to me. I often learn a lot of new things and want to share these facts with people who are interested in military topics.