THE RELIABLE RECURVE

WHETHER IT’S TRUE TO THE DESIGN OR INSPIRED BY IT, THE KUKRI MAKES A GREAT ONE-BLADE OPTION.

- Reuben Bolieu

What do video games, reality television, the British Army, Nepal, zombie-killing and post-apocalyptic movies have in common? The kukri knife. The reason? The kukri is quite possibly the most respected and emulated tool and feared-edged weapon.

Officially known as a khukuri, it's been shortened to khukri by the British and eventually, to the more widely known kukri name. In this article, I'll explore three kukri knives: one production, one custom made and one authentically made in Nepal. The goal isn't to compare any one kukri to another; rather, it's to point out the many variations and features found in these legendary knives.

KUKRI KNIFE

The history and tradition of the famed kukri trace back to the Nepalese people-namely, the Gurkha regiments that used this large chopping blade for combat and general utility. In the world of knives, a kukri is easily picked out of the wd because of its lengthy, drastically recurved, weight-forward blade.

The kukri is the most commonly used multipurpose tool in the fields and homes in Nepal.

Uses vary from clearing, chopping firewood, digging, slaughtering animals for food, cutting meat/vegetables, skinning animals and opening cans.

This recurring blade pattern has been copied, modified and reproduced by many custom knifemakers, as well as production companies that all love the legendary pattern. These are considered kukri-shaped and -inspired blades. Seeing a wide array of companies pay homage to the kukri by making their own versions is a sign that the design isn't going anywhere. In fact, the kukri seems to be gaining momentum.

ONE-TOOL OPTION

Years ago, online survival and knife-based forums were obsessed with the big question, If you could bring one knife/tool with you, what would it be? This would usually spark a barrage of arguments and opinions, as well as some good points.