When you think of warfare, what comes to your mind? Is it guns, bullets, pellets, bombs, or rifles? These weapons are modern warfare equipment and have been around for a short time, say two centuries. Have you ever wondered what it would have been like to fight a war in ancient times? Back then, there used to be no mechanical weapons that you could operate with the press of a trigger or button. So, how did the ancient people fight wars?
If you are a fan of documentary movies and biographies, you must have seen many wars. What was common in all of them? We bet it had lots of knives, blades, and swords. That’s how the people fought back in those days. Too much work, isn’t it? Coordinate efforts went into the making of the weapons. A lack of machinery meant all of them had to be carved out of hand. One of the most famous hand knives of those days is the kukri. Never heard of it? Well, that’s a shame. But don’t worry. Here is a detailed guide about all you need to know about kukri.
What is a kukri?
A kukri is a small handheld knife that has a curved and pointed end. The history of the kukri is quite old. How old, you might ask. Well, the answer varies. To date, many people are debating over the history of the kukri. Some theories point to the association of kukri to the 7th-century Kiratis while others link it to Alexander the great’s invasion of India. The opinion you want to believe in will help you decide the real age of the kukri.
Some experts have come together and agreed upon a single figure. And that figure is 2,500. So, the kukri is nearly 2,500 years old. Despite the long history, kukri became popular only during World War I and II. Back in those days, kukri was known by a different name. it was known as “the Gurkha knife.” To understand the reason behind the naming, you need to know about the Gurkhas. The Gurkhas have a long history. During Britain’s invasion of India, the Gurkhas fought bravely with them and defeated them. Gurkhas are strong, powerful, and highly skilled people who have their origins in Nepal. During the invasion of Nepal, a hasty pact between Britain and Nepal was signed. In that pact, Britain received four regiments of the Gurkha army. The Gurkhas are now 200-year old members of the British military and are fighting loyal battles for them.
How to pronounce kukri?
It might seem not very clear, but the pronunciation of kukri is simple. All you have to do is pucker your lips and say ‘Ku-Kree,’ simple.
How to use a kukri?
The kukri was used by the Gurkhas to fight in battles. They showed exemplary courage while battling singlehandedly using a knife. To use a kukri, you need to learn the basics of martial art. It is not allowed in the public as the blades of kukri are sharp and might hurt someone.
Traditionally, kukri was carried in a lambskin sheath that was tucked near the waist. Nowadays, you can buy leather pouches or sheaths to carry the kukri. The tip of the kukri always stays downward while the handle is in an upright position. The reason behind such a placement is the ease of accessibility.
When a kukri is drawn, one hand grips the sheath while the other hand quickly draws out the weapon. The quickness and agility are of utmost importance while using a kukri. Some people often wonder how to fight with a kukri. First of all, it is advised that you shouldn’t handle a kukri if you lack adequate experience. If you are negligent, the kukri might hurt your fingers. The blades are sharp and can cut your skin quickly. And if you have been skilled in martial arts, you might ask how to use kukri in combat. The principles of using a kukri are simple. You need to hold the blade tightly in your hand and plan your moves by taking your surroundings into account. There are many online tutorials available that will teach you the right postures to hold a kukri.
Apart from the combat, the kukri is also used to cut hard materials like wood, branches, or thin metal. To keep the kukri functioning properly, you need to sharpen it regularly.
How to sharpen a kukri?
When you buy a kukri, you get a small knife and a sharpener with it. The short blade is known as a karda, while the sharpener is known as the chakmak. Both of them are used for sharpening the kukri. They are used in pairs, and the knife can also double up as utility equipment.
Steps to sharpen a kukri:
- Keep the kukri on a leveled surface. Ensure that there are no stones or grits on the surface.
- Place weight on the kukri. You can also keep your hand on the kukri to prevent it from slipping away.
- Make sure that the edge is towards the side. It would prevent accidents.
- Use gentle force and draw the chakmak or the sharpener over the kukri.
- When you are done with one side, flip it over to sharpen the other.
Sharpening kukri by hand is laborious. So, you can opt for automatic sharpening machines to help you with the process.
How to make a kukri?
To understand how to forge a kukri, you need to know what materials it is made up of. The primary material used in the making of a kukri is steel. The highest quality steel is used to forge a kukri. How to make a kukri knife? The kukri knife is made by sharpening a piece of high-grade steel. The metal is chiseled and polished until it has sharp edges. A kukri that has a firm grip is the most useful. The handle of the kukri is made from hardwood or animal horn.
Who makes the best kukri?
To get the best kukri knife, you need to purchase it from the original makers. The Gurkha Kukri House in Nepal makes high-quality kukri knives to date and is the best place to buy a kukri.
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