Kukri facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Khukuri
A polished kukri.
Type	Machete
Place of origin	South Asia
Service history
Used by	Gurkha
Wars	Anglo-Afghan War Sino-Nepalese War Nepalese–Tibetan War Battle of Nalapani First World War Second World War Falklands War
Production history
Manufacturer	Gurkhas
Unit cost	$50–100
Produced	1810
Specifications
Mass	450–900 grams
Length	40–45 cm

The kukri or khukuri (pronounced "koo-koo-ree") is a special knife from Nepal and India. It is mostly used by the Gurkha people. This knife has a unique blade that curves inward, a bit like a machete. People use the kukri for many things. It can be a helpful tool for daily tasks or a strong weapon.

You might see the name spelled in different ways, like kukri, khukri, or kukkri. These spellings often come from India. However, the original spelling in the Nepali language is khukuri.

What is a Kukri?

The kukri is a medium-length knife known for its curved blade. This special shape makes it very effective for chopping. It is heavier towards the tip, which helps with cutting power. The handle is usually made for a strong grip.

Design and Features

The kukri's design is very old and has been used for centuries.

• Blade: The blade is thick and strong, curving inwards. It is often made from high-quality steel.
• Handle: The handle is usually made from wood, bone, or metal. It is shaped to fit comfortably in the hand.
• Sheath: The kukri comes with a special cover called a sheath. This protects the blade and keeps it safe.

Small Companion Knives

Many kukris come with two small knives tucked into the sheath.

• Karda: This is a small utility knife. It is used for smaller tasks like skinning or opening things.
• Chakmak: This tool is used to sharpen the main kukri blade. It can also be used to start a fire by striking it against a special stone.

Who Uses the Kukri?

The kukri is most famous for being used by the Gurkhas. The Gurkhas are brave soldiers from Nepal. They have served in many armies around the world, including the British Army.

Gurkha Soldiers

The Gurkhas are known for their courage and skill in battle. The kukri is a symbol of their bravery and honor. Gurkha soldiers carry the kukri as part of their uniform. They use it for both combat and everyday survival tasks.

Kukri in Wars

The kukri has been used in many important wars throughout history.

• Anglo-Afghan War
• Sino-Nepalese War
• Nepalese–Tibetan War
• Battle of Nalapani
• First World War
• Second World War
• Falklands War

In these wars, the kukri proved to be a very effective weapon. It helped Gurkha soldiers in close-quarters combat.

Kukri as a Tool

Beyond its use in battle, the kukri is a very useful tool for daily life in Nepal.

• Chopping Wood: Its heavy blade is perfect for chopping firewood.
• Clearing Paths: People use it to clear bushes and tall grass.
• Farming: It helps with various farming tasks, like harvesting crops.
• Building: It can be used for cutting materials when building homes.

It is a versatile tool that helps people with many different jobs.

Images for kids

• 

  Colonel Gambhir Singh Rayamajhi Kshetri, a Gorkhali Commander, with a Khukuri.

• 

  Gorkhali Chief Minister Kalu Pande wearing a Khukuri.

• 

  A Kukri (Top) with its traditional Karda (middle) and Chakmak (bottom).

• 

  A Gurkha officer patrolling in Singapore. The kukri is attached to his belt.

• 

  Gurkhas showing their kukris during a kit inspection in France during World War I.

• 

  Kukri knife and scabbard on display at the Imperial War Museum North.

See also

In Spanish: Kukri para niños