A question about the Gurkha knife (Kukri or something)?

Question

Am just curious about its odd shape. Does the knife have special use for the shape? Or is it for symbolic purposes only?

Thanks a bunch

Would like a follow up to that question although not entirely related.... what makes the gurkha soldier a fearsome warrior? You may or may not add any details to the first question. Thanks again

Answer 1

The Kukri is balanced and shaped for slashing. The larger ones can behead an animal, but the ones they carry normally are not this large. The one bit of ceremonial stuff in a Gurkha's Kukri is a little cut-out that is supposed to symbolize a trident. If memory serves it was supposed to be the weapon of Shiva, who the Gurkhas have some cultural affinity for. I had a platoon Sargent who had bought one of the knives from the Gurkhas. He used it both as a knife and to chop kindling. I even saw him chop down a 2" tree with it, though it took some time and effort.

The Gurkhas developed a reputation as strong fighters while originally serving the British while still a colony. Coming from a harsh mountainous climate they were very capable of carry heavy loads for long marches. The thin mountain air added to their respiratory conditioning. Also, coming from a clannish culture, they tended to fight very hard for their friends. To the best of my knowledge, they still recruit soldiers there for the Gurkha regiment. Also, there are very few slots for the number of soldiers allowed. This means that the British can choose the cream of the crop for this regiment.

I never worked with Gurkhas in the field, but did have occasion to run into them in 'the rear'. Their almost super-human reputation was almost amusing considering how quiet, respectful, and polite I found them to be.

Answer 2

A Kukri knife is famous from the 1940s when they were used by the British army when they were in India. The kukri knives at present are being used by the Gurkha regimental army of every state of the world. They have a curved shaped fixed blade knife perfect for any combat.

Answer 3

Yes, it has a very good design for both fighting and for utility.

It's heavy weight (due to thickness), means it requires less effort to cut (chop) through both vines and necks.

It's shape lends to the object being cut *naturally* coming to the central point of the blade, more efficiently cutting it.

There are various sizes of the kukri (though probably of different names) and a Nepali can take the head off a goat with one swing. It is pretty amazing and quite humane.

Nepalis are some of the kindest and humane people I have ever met as well as some of the fiercest warriors. They are quite amazing.

Answer 4

Yes, it is a hybrid between an ax and a knife and used as a tool like way to chop and slash thick branches and shrubs. Used like a machete.

Answer 5

shape has no significance other than historical i.e. the scimitar is similar shape though far larger.

Answer 6

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kukri