The Versatile Kukri: A Traditional Utility Knife and Weapon from the Indian Subcontinent

A kukri (also spelled khukuri or khurki) is a type of curved knife or machete that originated in the Indian subcontinent, particularly in Nepal and India. It is traditionally used as a utility knife for various tasks such as chopping, cutting, and clearing vegetation, but it can also be used as a weapon in close combat situations.

The kukri has a distinctive design with a curved blade and a handle that is typically made of wood or metal. The blade is usually single-edged, but some modern versions have a double-edged blade. The length of the kukri can vary from around 10 inches (25 cm) to over 24 inches (60 cm), depending on its intended use.

Kukris have been used by the Nepalese army for centuries, and they are still issued to soldiers today as a sidearm. They are also popular among civilians in Nepal and India, where they are used for various tasks such as farming, hunting, and self-defense.