Since the formation of 1st Gurkha Military unit back in early 19th century many kukri knives have come into limelight and countless legendary tales attached to it. The World War version is one of them and believed to have been used by British Gurkhas towards the end of 2nd world war period. The documented sources do not really point to the fact that it was issued then but because of its more effective size, shape and weight Gurkhas were individually found widely using the kukri during the war torn days. Particularly it is learnt that Gurkhas used to bring this kukri from their villages when returning back from their official leave.
The historic and commendable relationship of Gurkhas and British has come a very long way that in fact began with horrific violence and intense battle only to turn into mutual understanding, friendship and brotherhood. Both parties were fascinated by the khukuri and when British decided to make it a part of standard gears of a Gurkha it swiftly earned a friendly and fearsome reputation and more so important became a very battle cum domestic utility knife. The same story goes with the World War; one of the many khukuris used by Gurkhas that famed them into glory and victory.
The World War is a very common and famous khukuri in the local khukuri world in Nepal. It actually existed in early 1980’s when makers made this kukri believing it was issued and used by Gurkhas in World War days, and hence named so. The khukuri was such a success probably because of its appealing name, shape and size, it quickly stormed the khukuri market and within a year it was seen made by all local and international makers. Ironically, KHHI’s deep study and research does not lead to the fact that world war was indeed issued and officially used. The shape, style, size and structure heavily vary than the original issued versions. This World War version was more like a preferred knife of the Gurkhas since they bought and brought on their own for service. Nevertheless it cannot be ruled out that it was never issued as the documented sources are very sketchy and imprecise itself.
This 11 inch long kukri knife has a beautiful shape with no peak in the back edge. The belly is small and enlarges as it moves towards the head-point portion. The knife carries much of its weight at the front area but nonetheless the over-all weight is well balanced and effective. The blade is well polished and is fitted with a regular wooden handle. The rat tang of the blade goes through the handle and is peened over at the brass pommel cap at the base of the hilt. Brass metal is used to make the bolster and butt cap.
World War has a basic sheath made from wooden frame in inside and wrapped with buffalo hide from outside. A simple single shoe leather (2mm) loop frog is fitted, for the belt to go through.
It comes with two traditional accompanying knives, KARDA (the small utility knife) and CHAKMAK (the sharpener).
Size of Blade :11 Inch
Origin :Dharan, Eastern Nepal
Material/Features :Water buffalo leather scabbard, Indian rosewood handle, 2 x small knives
KHHI also supplies the following Promotional Materials with every shipment:
- KHHI Brochure [Company’s profile, its websites, products and related] - Info leaflet [Info of Gurkhas and Khukuri] - KHHI Manual [Tips and techniques on handling, maintaining and using a Khukuri] - Design Khukuri Pamphlet [Custom-design your own khukuri/ knife through KHHI] - Letter from MD [An official letter addressed by the MD himself to the buyer] - Letter of Declaration[Letter of authenticity and confidence declared by FHAN (Federation of Handicraft Association of Nepal)]
We have come across too many companies claming themselves to be genuine manufacturers of kukris which is in fact all untrue and we condemn such activities. We would therefore appeal all our visitors/buyers to be aware of such scamps and be extra cautions when buying online. After all, we want you to get the real things from the real people.
