Antique Knives

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. 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. It was carried in a wood sheath covered in leather, most having a wooden grip or horn and traditionally having two small knives (one small knife for chores and the other left unsharpened for flint striking and to knock burrs from the main blade), it is one of the most famous and feared knives of the world. 

To some the most appealing and distinctive part of the kukri is the notch or Cho cut into the blade directly in front of the grip near its base. Its unique shape and utility objectives have been the source of much debate. The notch works as a blood stop to prevent fluid from going towards the handle so that a good grip can be maintained. Additionally it was to stop the sharpener when in use from reaching the handle. Religiously it signifies the Hindu fertility symbol (OM) and represents the sacred cows hoof. 

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. 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.