5. Grips & Gods.
grips, gods and handle kukri, World war 1 WW 2 gurkha military khukuri. The Kukri by John Powell knife research book Heritage Knives Nepal Khukuri history and heritage. Article, Image, photo, articles, book, research, antiques, reproduction, gurkha rifles, gorkha regiment, british army, indian military, nepal army, world war 1, 2. WW1, WW2, JP. kilatools. 19th and 20th century issue, traditional kothimora. Bushcraft, utility, camping, manufacturer, producer, retail, seller, export of high quality blades genuine authentic gurkha knife, antique viking himalayas hillmen warrior soldier, hanshee, budhume, bhojpure, sirupate, style, design, pattern, kami, black smith.

Chapter 5


About Grips, Gods

and

Garudas.


John Powell,

2002. 

grips, gods and handle kukri, World war 1 WW 2 gurkha military khukuri. The Kukri by John Powell knife research book Heritage Knives Nepal Khukuri history and heritage. Article, Image, photo, articles, book, research, antiques, reproduction, gurkha rifles, gorkha regiment, british army, indian military, nepal army, world war 1, 2. WW1, WW2, JP. kilatools. 19th and 20th century issue, traditional kothimora. Bushcraft, utility, camping, manufacturer, producer, retail, seller, export of high quality blades genuine authentic gurkha knife, antique viking himalayas hillmen warrior soldier, hanshee, budhume, bhojpure, sirupate, style, design, pattern, kami, black smith.
grips, gods and handle kukri, World war 1 WW 2 gurkha military khukuri. The Kukri by John Powell knife research book Heritage Knives Nepal Khukuri history and heritage. Article, Image, photo, articles, book, research, antiques, reproduction, gurkha rifles, gorkha regiment, british army, indian military, nepal army, world war 1, 2. WW1, WW2, JP. kilatools. 19th and 20th century issue, traditional kothimora. Bushcraft, utility, camping, manufacturer, producer, retail, seller, export of high quality blades genuine authentic gurkha knife, antique viking himalayas hillmen warrior soldier, hanshee, budhume, bhojpure, sirupate, style, design, pattern, kami, black smith.
grips, gods and handle kukri, World war 1 WW 2 gurkha military khukuri. The Kukri by John Powell knife research book Heritage Knives Nepal Khukuri history and heritage. Article, Image, photo, articles, book, research, antiques, reproduction, gurkha rifles, gorkha regiment, british army, indian military, nepal army, world war 1, 2. WW1, WW2, JP. kilatools. 19th and 20th century issue, traditional kothimora. Bushcraft, utility, camping, manufacturer, producer, retail, seller, export of high quality blades genuine authentic gurkha knife, antique viking himalayas hillmen warrior soldier, hanshee, budhume, bhojpure, sirupate, style, design, pattern, kami, black smith.

Fig. 1. There are two basic types of handles found on the Kukri: A. Partial tang, where a single piece of wood or other material, with a tang that extends through to the pommel or goes about halfway secured with laha.

C. Stick tang is also used, where the tang goes through the grip down to the butt of the handle. 

B. Full tang, is called a pana butta or pana walla consisting of two pieces fastened with rivets to a tang that is the width and shape of the scales. Full tang Kukri`s started as a military norm in the early 20th century

(WW 1). 

JP Collection. 

The shape of the pommel and the extent of the grip’s curve will determine its origin and in the case of military kukris, the model or mark. These military grips are rough hewn, finished to the point of having the model shape and rings cut without drilling a slot for the tang. Scale grips seem to be favoured more in later Indian models than Nepal and when made of hoof material can be confused for light coloured buffalo horn or even giraffe horn because of the unique golden or almost transparent appearance. The Indian rhino (fig. 2) and the rare Madagascar species are identified by the long hair composition that makes up these horns. The colour ranges from green to brown to grey. When this hair is bunched up or even seen in a swirled pattern it probably came from the smaller of the two horns or from a horn that was disfigured early in the animal’s life by a fight or accident. All of this, like many other products not native to the subcontinent, came to Nepal and India through the very lucrative trade routes set up as early as the 1200s by Arabian traders working from the Gulf of Arabia down through Madagascar. Their dhows still ply these ancient sea lanes, and all manner of exotica came from distant ports.

Above: Various metal handle Kukri knives from the early 20th C.

Below: Various materials as used on Kukri knives over the 19th &20th century.

 

JP Collection. 

inlayed, grips, gods and handle kukri, World war 1 WW 2 gurkha military khukuri. The Kukri by John Powell knife research book Heritage Knives Nepal Khukuri history and heritage. Article, Image, photo, articles, book, research, antiques, reproduction, gurkha rifles, gorkha regiment, british army, indian military, nepal army, world war 1, 2. WW1, WW2, JP. kilatools. 19th and 20th century issue, traditional kothimora. Bushcraft, utility, camping, manufacturer, producer, retail, seller, export of high quality blades genuine authentic gurkha knife, antique viking himalayas hillmen warrior soldier, hanshee, budhume, bhojpure, sirupate, style, design, pattern, kami, black smith.

Editors note: Nepal was completely closed for foreginers until the 1950s. A handful of Indian tradesmen and pilgrims, Chinese pilgrims, Tibetan monks, Armenian and Kashmiri tradesmen are known though to have been based in Kathmandu. Add a few Italian monks prior to the Gorkhali invasion in the 1760´s. 

grips, gods and handle kukri, World war 1 WW 2 gurkha military khukuri. The Kukri by John Powell knife research book Heritage Knives Nepal Khukuri history and heritage. Article, Image, photo, articles, book, research, antiques, reproduction, gurkha rifles, gorkha regiment, british army, indian military, nepal army, world war 1, 2. WW1, WW2, JP. kilatools. 19th and 20th century issue, traditional kothimora. Bushcraft, utility, camping, manufacturer, producer, retail, seller, export of high quality blades genuine authentic gurkha knife, antique viking himalayas hillmen warrior soldier, hanshee, budhume, bhojpure, sirupate, style, design, pattern, kami, black smith.

Various handles/hitls/grips as used over the 19th and 20th century. 

JP Collection. 

The grips of kukris are as varied as the knife itself, but tradition insists a Nepalese kukri has a raised ring near the center with 4 or 6 grooves cut between this ring and the bolster. There are two basic types found: (fig. 1) a single piece of wood or other material, with a tang that extends through to the pommel or goes about halfway secured with laha. Or what is called a pana butta or pana walla consisting of two pieces fastened with rivets to a tang that is the width and shape of the scales. 

grips, gods and handle kukri, World war 1 WW 2 gurkha military khukuri. The Kukri by John Powell knife research book Heritage Knives Nepal Khukuri history and heritage. Article, Image, photo, articles, book, research, antiques, reproduction, gurkha rifles, gorkha regiment, british army, indian military, nepal army, world war 1, 2. WW1, WW2, JP. kilatools. 19th and 20th century issue, traditional kothimora. Bushcraft, utility, camping, manufacturer, producer, retail, seller, export of high quality blades genuine authentic gurkha knife, antique viking himalayas hillmen warrior soldier, hanshee, budhume, bhojpure, sirupate, style, design, pattern, kami, black smith.

Image of a Kukri with what is most likely Gaur (Indian Bison) horn and NOT giraffe. 

JP  Collection. 

grips, gods and handle kukri, World war 1 WW 2 gurkha military khukuri. The Kukri by John Powell knife research book Heritage Knives Nepal Khukuri history and heritage. Article, Image, photo, articles, book, research, antiques, reproduction, gurkha rifles, gorkha regiment, british army, indian military, nepal army, world war 1, 2. WW1, WW2, JP. kilatools. 19th and 20th century issue, traditional kothimora. Bushcraft, utility, camping, manufacturer, producer, retail, seller, export of high quality blades genuine authentic gurkha knife, antique viking himalayas hillmen warrior soldier, hanshee, budhume, bhojpure, sirupate, style, design, pattern, kami, black smith.
grips, gods and handle kukri, World war 1 WW 2 gurkha military khukuri. The Kukri by John Powell knife research book Heritage Knives Nepal Khukuri history and heritage. Article, Image, photo, articles, book, research, antiques, reproduction, gurkha rifles, gorkha regiment, british army, indian military, nepal army, world war 1, 2. WW1, WW2, JP. kilatools. 19th and 20th century issue, traditional kothimora. Bushcraft, utility, camping, manufacturer, producer, retail, seller, export of high quality blades genuine authentic gurkha knife, antique viking himalayas hillmen warrior soldier, hanshee, budhume, bhojpure, sirupate, style, design, pattern, kami, black smith.

Variations of handle material, from left to right; Gaur horn, Water Buffalo horn, Wood, Rhino horn. 

JP Collection. 

grips, gods and handle kukri, World war 1 WW 2 gurkha military khukuri. The Kukri by John Powell knife research book Heritage Knives Nepal Khukuri history and heritage. Article, Image, photo, articles, book, research, antiques, reproduction, gurkha rifles, gorkha regiment, british army, indian military, nepal army, world war 1, 2. WW1, WW2, JP. kilatools. 19th and 20th century issue, traditional kothimora. Bushcraft, utility, camping, manufacturer, producer, retail, seller, export of high quality blades genuine authentic gurkha knife, antique viking himalayas hillmen warrior soldier, hanshee, budhume, bhojpure, sirupate, style, design, pattern, kami, black smith.
grips, gods and handle kukri, World war 1 WW 2 gurkha military khukuri. The Kukri by John Powell knife research book Heritage Knives Nepal Khukuri history and heritage. Article, Image, photo, articles, book, research, antiques, reproduction, gurkha rifles, gorkha regiment, british army, indian military, nepal army, world war 1, 2. WW1, WW2, JP. kilatools. 19th and 20th century issue, traditional kothimora. Bushcraft, utility, camping, manufacturer, producer, retail, seller, export of high quality blades genuine authentic gurkha knife, antique viking himalayas hillmen warrior soldier, hanshee, budhume, bhojpure, sirupate, style, design, pattern, kami, black smith.
grips, gods and handle kukri, World war 1 WW 2 gurkha military khukuri. The Kukri by John Powell knife research book Heritage Knives Nepal Khukuri history and heritage. Article, Image, photo, articles, book, research, antiques, reproduction, gurkha rifles, gorkha regiment, british army, indian military, nepal army, world war 1, 2. WW1, WW2, JP. kilatools. 19th and 20th century issue, traditional kothimora. Bushcraft, utility, camping, manufacturer, producer, retail, seller, export of high quality blades genuine authentic gurkha knife, antique viking himalayas hillmen warrior soldier, hanshee, budhume, bhojpure, sirupate, style, design, pattern, kami, black smith.
grips, gods and handle kukri, World war 1 WW 2 gurkha military khukuri. The Kukri by John Powell knife research book Heritage Knives Nepal Khukuri history and heritage. Article, Image, photo, articles, book, research, antiques, reproduction, gurkha rifles, gorkha regiment, british army, indian military, nepal army, world war 1, 2. WW1, WW2, JP. kilatools. 19th and 20th century issue, traditional kothimora. Bushcraft, utility, camping, manufacturer, producer, retail, seller, export of high quality blades genuine authentic gurkha knife, antique viking himalayas hillmen warrior soldier, hanshee, budhume, bhojpure, sirupate, style, design, pattern, kami, black smith.

Fig. 3. White bone handles, at times mistaken or sold a Ivory, Bovine Ivory or other labels. In rare cases Wild boar horn has been found to be used too. In all cases please refer to CITES rules and regulations. 

JP Collection. 

grips, gods and handle kukri, World war 1 WW 2 gurkha military khukuri. The Kukri by John Powell knife research book Heritage Knives Nepal Khukuri history and heritage. Article, Image, photo, articles, book, research, antiques, reproduction, gurkha rifles, gorkha regiment, british army, indian military, nepal army, world war 1, 2. WW1, WW2, JP. kilatools. 19th and 20th century issue, traditional kothimora. Bushcraft, utility, camping, manufacturer, producer, retail, seller, export of high quality blades genuine authentic gurkha knife, antique viking himalayas hillmen warrior soldier, hanshee, budhume, bhojpure, sirupate, style, design, pattern, kami, black smith.

Fig. 2. Rhino horn grip/handle on a Kothimora Kukri, full and close view in the two images. 


Editors note; the use of Rhino horn from Africa is highly unlikely when there was steady supply of high quality from Nepal, India and S.E. Asia. 

JP Collection. 

Fig. 4. Hilts with black horn and / or black wood towards the butt-cap / pommel cap. 

JP Collection. 

The materials used for the grips were of local walnut (pat pate), sandalwood (chandan) or sisnal, caribou, rhinoceros as mentioned above or giraffe horn, bone, white metal, aluminium after 1890, brass, ivory (both marine and mammal), jade and rock crystal. Also to be found are handles of elaborately engraved gold- or silver-damascened and enamel. 


The bone grips are usually lined with wood and may have a pommel cap made of the same material, dyed black (fig. 4) or left as is. If the bone is of particularly high quality, aged and properly polished, it may be mistaken for ivory at first glance. One should always check the material carefully as bone can ridiculously be described as “Bovine Ivory”, but will always have small black threads or lines running throughout which are visible with the naked eye, or better yet, a magnifying loop. There is bone of high quality that has been prepared properly by being boiled, aged in the sun and then highly polished that, on first inspection, looks like ivory (fig. 3).

The bone grips are usually lined with wood and may have a pommel cap made of the same material, dyed black (fig. 4) or left as is. If the bone is of particularly high quality, aged and properly polished, it may be mistaken for ivory at first glance. One should always check the material carefully as bone can ridiculously be described as “Bovine Ivory”, but will always have small black threads or lines running throughout which are visible with the naked eye, or better yet, a magnifying loop. There is bone of high quality that has been prepared properly by being boiled, aged in the sun and then highly polished that, on first inspection, looks like ivory (fig. 3).

Some grips may have a silver pommel or have the upper half from the ring to the butt covered in plain or engraved silver. (fig. 4) The upper half can also be of ivory or bone, while many have a distinctive engraved design directly below the ring (fig. 5).



grips, gods and handle kukri, World war 1 WW 2 gurkha military khukuri. The Kukri by John Powell knife research book Heritage Knives Nepal Khukuri history and heritage. Article, Image, photo, articles, book, research, antiques, reproduction, gurkha rifles, gorkha regiment, british army, indian military, nepal army, world war 1, 2. WW1, WW2, JP. kilatools. 19th and 20th century issue, traditional kothimora. Bushcraft, utility, camping, manufacturer, producer, retail, seller, export of high quality blades genuine authentic gurkha knife, antique viking himalayas hillmen warrior soldier, hanshee, budhume, bhojpure, sirupate, style, design, pattern, kami, black smith.
grips, gods and handle kukri, World war 1 WW 2 gurkha military khukuri. The Kukri by John Powell knife research book Heritage Knives Nepal Khukuri history and heritage. Article, Image, photo, articles, book, research, antiques, reproduction, gurkha rifles, gorkha regiment, british army, indian military, nepal army, world war 1, 2. WW1, WW2, JP. kilatools. 19th and 20th century issue, traditional kothimora. Bushcraft, utility, camping, manufacturer, producer, retail, seller, export of high quality blades genuine authentic gurkha knife, antique viking himalayas hillmen warrior soldier, hanshee, budhume, bhojpure, sirupate, style, design, pattern, kami, black smith.
grips, gods and handle kukri, World war 1 WW 2 gurkha military khukuri. The Kukri by John Powell knife research book Heritage Knives Nepal Khukuri history and heritage. Article, Image, photo, articles, book, research, antiques, reproduction, gurkha rifles, gorkha regiment, british army, indian military, nepal army, world war 1, 2. WW1, WW2, JP. kilatools. 19th and 20th century issue, traditional kothimora. Bushcraft, utility, camping, manufacturer, producer, retail, seller, export of high quality blades genuine authentic gurkha knife, antique viking himalayas hillmen warrior soldier, hanshee, budhume, bhojpure, sirupate, style, design, pattern, kami, black smith.

Fig. 4. The variations on the grip, including two different materials being used. In image here the balck and white is bone and horn. On Fig. 5 sliver versions are shown.  


JP Collection (Kukri n close up).

 Heritage Knives (carved detail).

The chainpuri style with its very flared pommel and the hanshee grips that are long and slender are the easiest to identify (fig. 6).

Fig. 6 A. The Chainpuri (Chainpure) handle, is a traditional handle style from the mid hills of eastern Nepal and the town/area of Chainpur. It is based on Kirati traditions and represents their spiritual beliefs and often used in Shamanistic traditions to represent theunder world. 

Heritage Knives. 

grips, gods and handle kukri, World war 1 WW 2 gurkha military khukuri. The Kukri by John Powell knife research book Heritage Knives Nepal Khukuri history and heritage. Article, Image, photo, articles, book, research, antiques, reproduction, gurkha rifles, gorkha regiment, british army, indian military, nepal army, world war 1, 2. WW1, WW2, JP. kilatools. 19th and 20th century issue, traditional kothimora. Bushcraft, utility, camping, manufacturer, producer, retail, seller, export of high quality blades genuine authentic gurkha knife, antique viking himalayas hillmen warrior soldier, hanshee, budhume, bhojpure, sirupate, style, design, pattern, kami, black smith.
silver, grips, gods and handle kukri, World war 1 WW 2 gurkha military khukuri. The Kukri by John Powell knife research book Heritage Knives Nepal Khukuri history and heritage. Article, Image, photo, articles, book, research, antiques, reproduction, gurkha rifles, gorkha regiment, british army, indian military, nepal army, world war 1, 2. WW1, WW2, JP. kilatools. 19th and 20th century issue, traditional kothimora. Bushcraft, utility, camping, manufacturer, producer, retail, seller, export of high quality blades genuine authentic gurkha knife, antique viking himalayas hillmen warrior soldier, hanshee, budhume, bhojpure, sirupate, style, design, pattern, kami, black smith.

Fig. 5. The Silver handle Kukri (right) and variations of the silver handle above, including design patterns, ring(s) and other details of the grip. 


The "silver" is not necessarily silver but can be, as well as the use of aluminum, alloy metal and other matrials have been used also. 

JP Collection. 

grips, gods and handle kukri, World war 1 WW 2 gurkha military khukuri. The Kukri by John Powell knife research book Heritage Knives Nepal Khukuri history and heritage. Article, Image, photo, articles, book, research, antiques, reproduction, gurkha rifles, gorkha regiment, british army, indian military, nepal army, world war 1, 2. WW1, WW2, JP. kilatools. 19th and 20th century issue, traditional kothimora. Bushcraft, utility, camping, manufacturer, producer, retail, seller, export of high quality blades genuine authentic gurkha knife, antique viking himalayas hillmen warrior soldier, hanshee, budhume, bhojpure, sirupate, style, design, pattern, kami, black smith.

Variations of the metal handle on the Kukri, includes silver, silver paint, gold leaf, brass and other materials as used over the past two centuries. 

JP Collection. 

grips, gods and handle kukri, World war 1 WW 2 gurkha military khukuri. The Kukri by John Powell knife research book Heritage Knives Nepal Khukuri history and heritage. Article, Image, photo, articles, book, research, antiques, reproduction, gurkha rifles, gorkha regiment, british army, indian military, nepal army, world war 1, 2. WW1, WW2, JP. kilatools. 19th and 20th century issue, traditional kothimora. Bushcraft, utility, camping, manufacturer, producer, retail, seller, export of high quality blades genuine authentic gurkha knife, antique viking himalayas hillmen warrior soldier, hanshee, budhume, bhojpure, sirupate, style, design, pattern, kami, black smith.
grips, gods and handle kukri, World war 1 WW 2 gurkha military khukuri. The Kukri by John Powell knife research book Heritage Knives Nepal Khukuri history and heritage. Article, Image, photo, articles, book, research, antiques, reproduction, gurkha rifles, gorkha regiment, british army, indian military, nepal army, world war 1, 2. WW1, WW2, JP. kilatools. 19th and 20th century issue, traditional kothimora. Bushcraft, utility, camping, manufacturer, producer, retail, seller, export of high quality blades genuine authentic gurkha knife, antique viking himalayas hillmen warrior soldier, hanshee, budhume, bhojpure, sirupate, style, design, pattern, kami, black smith.

Fig. 6 B. The Hanshee grip, a feature of many 18th and 19th Century Kukri knives, is charachterised by its long handle. For the handle to be a (classical) Hanshee (aka Lambendh) it should be 14 cm or longer. JP Collection.

grips, gods and handle kukri, World war 1 WW 2 gurkha military khukuri. The Kukri by John Powell knife research book Heritage Knives Nepal Khukuri history and heritage. Article, Image, photo, articles, book, research, antiques, reproduction, gurkha rifles, gorkha regiment, british army, indian military, nepal army, world war 1, 2. WW1, WW2, JP. kilatools. 19th and 20th century issue, traditional kothimora. Bushcraft, utility, camping, manufacturer, producer, retail, seller, export of high quality blades genuine authentic gurkha knife, antique viking himalayas hillmen warrior soldier, hanshee, budhume, bhojpure, sirupate, style, design, pattern, kami, black smith.
grips, gods and handle kukri, World war 1 WW 2 gurkha military khukuri. The Kukri by John Powell knife research book Heritage Knives Nepal Khukuri history and heritage. Article, Image, photo, articles, book, research, antiques, reproduction, gurkha rifles, gorkha regiment, british army, indian military, nepal army, world war 1, 2. WW1, WW2, JP. kilatools. 19th and 20th century issue, traditional kothimora. Bushcraft, utility, camping, manufacturer, producer, retail, seller, export of high quality blades genuine authentic gurkha knife, antique viking himalayas hillmen warrior soldier, hanshee, budhume, bhojpure, sirupate, style, design, pattern, kami, black smith.

Many of the Kukri´s from the Anglo-Gorkha War of 1814-1816 are known to be of the Hanshee style. The blade of the Hanshee Kukri too is often more curved and slimmer, without a large belly.

The era of Indian kukris made for officers from 1945 through the 1960s are worthy of special note because of their excellent workmanship and beauty of design (fig. 7). Made of elephant ivory and mounted in layers with black horn, these kukris are highly prized specimens. The rarest of these is the hexagonal shaped design, and named models are even more exceptional. Included in this group is a version of the M43 and a named example without the horn layer (editors note: see fig. 10)

A alloy handle Kukri (left) and a metal handle kukri which at times has silver paint or silver inlayed. JP Collection. 

ivory grips, gods and handle kukri, World war 1 WW 2 gurkha military khukuri. The Kukri by John Powell knife research book Heritage Knives Nepal Khukuri history and heritage. Article, Image, photo, articles, book, research, antiques, reproduction, gurkha rifles, gorkha regiment, british army, indian military, nepal army, world war 1, 2. WW1, WW2, JP. kilatools. 19th and 20th century issue, traditional kothimora. Bushcraft, utility, camping, manufacturer, producer, retail, seller, export of high quality blades genuine authentic gurkha knife, antique viking himalayas hillmen warrior soldier, hanshee, budhume, bhojpure, sirupate, style, design, pattern, kami, black smith.
officers ivory grips, gods and handle kukri, World war 1 WW 2 gurkha military khukuri. The Kukri by John Powell knife research book Heritage Knives Nepal Khukuri history and heritage. Article, Image, photo, articles, book, research, antiques, reproduction, gurkha rifles, gorkha regiment, british army, indian military, nepal army, world war 1, 2. WW1, WW2, JP. kilatools. 19th and 20th century issue, traditional kothimora. Bushcraft, utility, camping, manufacturer, producer, retail, seller, export of high quality blades genuine authentic gurkha knife, antique viking himalayas hillmen warrior soldier, hanshee, budhume, bhojpure, sirupate, style, design, pattern, kami, black smith.

Fig. 7 A & B. Indian made Kukris from WW2 into the 1960´s, most likely for Officer´s and also available as private purchase Kukri in the Bazzars. The style range from Mark 2 to Mark 3 and with minor differences, including hexagonal and non standard issue handles. 

JP Collection (7 A) & Rod (7 B). 

grips, gods and handle kukri, World war 1 WW 2 gurkha military khukuri. The Kukri by John Powell knife research book Heritage Knives Nepal Khukuri history and heritage. Article, Image, photo, articles, book, research, antiques, reproduction, gurkha rifles, gorkha regiment, british army, indian military, nepal army, world war 1, 2. WW1, WW2, JP. kilatools. 19th and 20th century issue, traditional kothimora. Bushcraft, utility, camping, manufacturer, producer, retail, seller, export of high quality blades genuine authentic gurkha knife, antique viking himalayas hillmen warrior soldier, hanshee, budhume, bhojpure, sirupate, style, design, pattern, kami, black smith.
grips, gods and handle kukri, World war 1 WW 2 gurkha military khukuri. The Kukri by John Powell knife research book Heritage Knives Nepal Khukuri history and heritage. Article, Image, photo, articles, book, research, antiques, reproduction, gurkha rifles, gorkha regiment, british army, indian military, nepal army, world war 1, 2. WW1, WW2, JP. kilatools. 19th and 20th century issue, traditional kothimora. Bushcraft, utility, camping, manufacturer, producer, retail, seller, export of high quality blades genuine authentic gurkha knife, antique viking himalayas hillmen warrior soldier, hanshee, budhume, bhojpure, sirupate, style, design, pattern, kami, black smith.

Also from India come the wonderful tulwar (tarwar) style grips with knuckle guards (fig. 8). There are also early Nepalese models that have a kora style grip (fig. 9) and some cutlass-sized kukris which have a full 'D' guard attached. 



Details of the handles, the MK 2 (left) and the MK3 with hexagonal handle (right). 

Rod (2012).

Bolsters are made of either two pieces of metal, brazed together and carefully fitted or a single piece, hammered over a form and then brazed together. As a loose rule of thumb, if the bolster is made of brass the kukri was made during or after the 1920s. However, I can find no specific reason for this since brass was readily available, easy to work and in fact the chapes on WW I-era scabbards are always made of brass. There are early kukris with brass fittings, but this is not the norm.  Bolsters have their own design features including being integrated onto the blade itself, as in the later WW II Mk II and Model 43s (fig. 10), while others are obviously a separate piece. Ridges, pieces shaped to fit the grip (fig. 11) and elongated refits are just a few of the many styles. There is no specific design that I can attribute to any particular area or jat.

grips, gods and handle kukri, World war 1 WW 2 gurkha military khukuri. The Kukri by John Powell knife research book Heritage Knives Nepal Khukuri history and heritage. Article, Image, photo, articles, book, research, antiques, reproduction, gurkha rifles, gorkha regiment, british army, indian military, nepal army, world war 1, 2. WW1, WW2, JP. kilatools. 19th and 20th century issue, traditional kothimora. Bushcraft, utility, camping, manufacturer, producer, retail, seller, export of high quality blades genuine authentic gurkha knife, antique viking himalayas hillmen warrior soldier, hanshee, budhume, bhojpure, sirupate, style, design, pattern, kami, black smith.

Fig. 8. To Nepals south, east and west is India, a sub-continent with vast traditions of knives and swords, amazing blades. Influences can be found on the Kukri too, here Tulwar grip Kukri knives with knuckle guards. 

JP Collection. 

grips, gods and handle kukri, World war 1 WW 2 gurkha military khukuri. The Kukri by John Powell knife research book Heritage Knives Nepal Khukuri history and heritage. Article, Image, photo, articles, book, research, antiques, reproduction, gurkha rifles, gorkha regiment, british army, indian military, nepal army, world war 1, 2. WW1, WW2, JP. kilatools. 19th and 20th century issue, traditional kothimora. Bushcraft, utility, camping, manufacturer, producer, retail, seller, export of high quality blades genuine authentic gurkha knife, antique viking himalayas hillmen warrior soldier, hanshee, budhume, bhojpure, sirupate, style, design, pattern, kami, black smith.

The "D-Guard" on the Kukri knife. The influence is traced to European and Indian weapons of the 18th and 19th century.


JP Collection. 

grips, gods and handle kukri, World war 1 WW 2 gurkha military khukuri. The Kukri by John Powell knife research book Heritage Knives Nepal Khukuri history and heritage. Article, Image, photo, articles, book, research, antiques, reproduction, gurkha rifles, gorkha regiment, british army, indian military, nepal army, world war 1, 2. WW1, WW2, JP. kilatools. 19th and 20th century issue, traditional kothimora. Bushcraft, utility, camping, manufacturer, producer, retail, seller, export of high quality blades genuine authentic gurkha knife, antique viking himalayas hillmen warrior soldier, hanshee, budhume, bhojpure, sirupate, style, design, pattern, kami, black smith.

Fig. 9. Kukri knives with Tulwar style handle (top), and the more traditional Nepalese Kora Sword handle style is at times used on the Kukri. The image is originally from the National Museum of Nepal. 

JP Collection. 

grips, gods and handle kukri, World war 1 WW 2 gurkha military khukuri. The Kukri by John Powell knife research book Heritage Knives Nepal Khukuri history and heritage. Article, Image, photo, articles, book, research, antiques, reproduction, gurkha rifles, gorkha regiment, british army, indian military, nepal army, world war 1, 2. WW1, WW2, JP. kilatools. 19th and 20th century issue, traditional kothimora. Bushcraft, utility, camping, manufacturer, producer, retail, seller, export of high quality blades genuine authentic gurkha knife, antique viking himalayas hillmen warrior soldier, hanshee, budhume, bhojpure, sirupate, style, design, pattern, kami, black smith.
grips, gods and handle kukri, World war 1 WW 2 gurkha military khukuri. The Kukri by John Powell knife research book Heritage Knives Nepal Khukuri history and heritage. Article, Image, photo, articles, book, research, antiques, reproduction, gurkha rifles, gorkha regiment, british army, indian military, nepal army, world war 1, 2. WW1, WW2, JP. kilatools. 19th and 20th century issue, traditional kothimora. Bushcraft, utility, camping, manufacturer, producer, retail, seller, export of high quality blades genuine authentic gurkha knife, antique viking himalayas hillmen warrior soldier, hanshee, budhume, bhojpure, sirupate, style, design, pattern, kami, black smith.

Fig 10 & 11. Variations of the military MK2 style from WW2, including the M 43 Kukri. Variations on Kukri´s is common and include besides the blade, handles, bolsters. The latter is at times integrated with the blade, other times shaped to fit the grip and elongated refits or other elements.  JP collection. 

When there is a thru tang keepers vary widely and some are based on tradition. Many grips will also have a metal or brass pommel plate, and, if the tang was peened over at the butt, will have another additional piece of metal to act as a keeper. This piece is found in a variety of shapes (fig. 12) which are based on tradition. The most typical is a diamond or square shape called a hira jornu or sometimes “the eye of God”. There is one school of thought that the four corners represent the four points of the globe. As the cuts in the wood may be a sacred number they could just as easily have a practical reason, either for preventing slippage or to prevent cracking as these cuts would relieve the natural stress and expansion of both horn and wood. Some military models have a full pommel cap that is welded to 2 small extensions on the tang. Some older kukris won’t have a buttcap at all, but the tang will be peened over into the wood or they will have a small tang button to hold it together.

Although not so readily defined as ethnic groups, there are many other “oddball” grips which are replacements or just strange styles. Rolled and embossed/debossed sheets of brass, silver or gold may be attached to a wooden core and are usually very well crafted with well-made blades (fig. 13). Another common design is that of geometric shapes cut into the grip. These will be of bone, silver or ivory (fig. 14). 


grips, gods and handle kukri, World war 1 WW 2 gurkha military khukuri. The Kukri by John Powell knife research book Heritage Knives Nepal Khukuri history and heritage. Article, Image, photo, articles, book, research, antiques, reproduction, gurkha rifles, gorkha regiment, british army, indian military, nepal army, world war 1, 2. WW1, WW2, JP. kilatools. 19th and 20th century issue, traditional kothimora. Bushcraft, utility, camping, manufacturer, producer, retail, seller, export of high quality blades genuine authentic gurkha knife, antique viking himalayas hillmen warrior soldier, hanshee, budhume, bhojpure, sirupate, style, design, pattern, kami, black smith.

The Tulwar style handle on a Kukri knife, the handle with has been increased and is rather fatter then a normal Tulwar.

JP Collection. 

stag horn, grips, gods and handle kukri, World war 1 WW 2 gurkha military khukuri. The Kukri by John Powell knife research book Heritage Knives Nepal Khukuri history and heritage. Article, Image, photo, articles, book, research, antiques, reproduction, gurkha rifles, gorkha regiment, british army, indian military, nepal army, world war 1, 2. WW1, WW2, JP. kilatools. 19th and 20th century issue, traditional kothimora. Bushcraft, utility, camping, manufacturer, producer, retail, seller, export of high quality blades genuine authentic gurkha knife, antique viking himalayas hillmen warrior soldier, hanshee, budhume, bhojpure, sirupate, style, design, pattern, kami, black smith.

A Stag horn Kukri, not known if original to the blade or a later addition. 

JP Collection. 

Weapons of General Amar Singh Thapa, late 18th-early 19th Century, Nepal. National Museum of Nepal, Kathmandu, 2014. Both the traditional Kora style handle and the Tulwar stylehandle can be seen. SirKukri

rounded buttplate, grips, gods and handle kukri, World war 1 WW 2 gurkha military khukuri. The Kukri by John Powell knife research book Heritage Knives Nepal Khukuri history and heritage. Article, Image, photo, articles, book, research, antiques, reproduction, gurkha rifles, gorkha regiment, british army, indian military, nepal army, world war 1, 2. WW1, WW2, JP. kilatools. 19th and 20th century issue, traditional kothimora. Bushcraft, utility, camping, manufacturer, producer, retail, seller, export of high quality blades genuine authentic gurkha knife, antique viking himalayas hillmen warrior soldier, hanshee, budhume, bhojpure, sirupate, style, design, pattern, kami, black smith.
grips, gods and handle kukri, World war 1 WW 2 gurkha military khukuri. The Kukri by John Powell knife research book Heritage Knives Nepal Khukuri history and heritage. Article, Image, photo, articles, book, research, antiques, reproduction, gurkha rifles, gorkha regiment, british army, indian military, nepal army, world war 1, 2. WW1, WW2, JP. kilatools. 19th and 20th century issue, traditional kothimora. Bushcraft, utility, camping, manufacturer, producer, retail, seller, export of high quality blades genuine authentic gurkha knife, antique viking himalayas hillmen warrior soldier, hanshee, budhume, bhojpure, sirupate, style, design, pattern, kami, black smith.

Fig. 13. Rolled and embossed/debossed sheets of brass, silver or gold may be attached to a wooden core and are usually very well crafted with well-made blades. Most are without a wooden core. 

JP Collection. 

grips, gods and handle kukri, World war 1 WW 2 gurkha military khukuri. The Kukri by John Powell knife research book Heritage Knives Nepal Khukuri history and heritage. Article, Image, photo, articles, book, research, antiques, reproduction, gurkha rifles, gorkha regiment, british army, indian military, nepal army, world war 1, 2. WW1, WW2, JP. kilatools. 19th and 20th century issue, traditional kothimora. Bushcraft, utility, camping, manufacturer, producer, retail, seller, export of high quality blades genuine authentic gurkha knife, antique viking himalayas hillmen warrior soldier, hanshee, budhume, bhojpure, sirupate, style, design, pattern, kami, black smith.

Fig. 14. Geometric shapes cut into the grip are often based on traditional symbols, beliefs and some timely fashion perhaps too. 

JP Collection. 

lion carved grips, gods and handle kukri, World war 1 WW 2 gurkha military khukuri. The Kukri by John Powell knife research book Heritage Knives Nepal Khukuri history and heritage. Article, Image, photo, articles, book, research, antiques, reproduction, gurkha rifles, gorkha regiment, british army, indian military, nepal army, world war 1, 2. WW1, WW2, JP. kilatools. 19th and 20th century issue, traditional kothimora. Bushcraft, utility, camping, manufacturer, producer, retail, seller, export of high quality blades genuine authentic gurkha knife, antique viking himalayas hillmen warrior soldier, hanshee, budhume, bhojpure, sirupate, style, design, pattern, kami, black smith.
diamond butt, grips, gods and handle kukri, World war 1 WW 2 gurkha military khukuri. The Kukri by John Powell knife research book Heritage Knives Nepal Khukuri history and heritage. Article, Image, photo, articles, book, research, antiques, reproduction, gurkha rifles, gorkha regiment, british army, indian military, nepal army, world war 1, 2. WW1, WW2, JP. kilatools. 19th and 20th century issue, traditional kothimora. Bushcraft, utility, camping, manufacturer, producer, retail, seller, export of high quality blades genuine authentic gurkha knife, antique viking himalayas hillmen warrior soldier, hanshee, budhume, bhojpure, sirupate, style, design, pattern, kami, black smith.
grips, gods and handle kukri, World war 1 WW 2 gurkha military khukuri. The Kukri by John Powell knife research book Heritage Knives Nepal Khukuri history and heritage. Article, Image, photo, articles, book, research, antiques, reproduction, gurkha rifles, gorkha regiment, british army, indian military, nepal army, world war 1, 2. WW1, WW2, JP. kilatools. 19th and 20th century issue, traditional kothimora. Bushcraft, utility, camping, manufacturer, producer, retail, seller, export of high quality blades genuine authentic gurkha knife, antique viking himalayas hillmen warrior soldier, hanshee, budhume, bhojpure, sirupate, style, design, pattern, kami, black smith.

The grip is not only a good indicator of style, but of quality as well. An important thing to look for when examining a kukri is not only how well matched the grip and blade are, but also how well the bolster and butt plate are fitted.

Kukri knives of various substances shown in image above. 

JP Collection. 

grips, gods and handle kukri, World war 1 WW 2 gurkha military khukuri. The Kukri by John Powell knife research book Heritage Knives Nepal Khukuri history and heritage. Article, Image, photo, articles, book, research, antiques, reproduction, gurkha rifles, gorkha regiment, british army, indian military, nepal army, world war 1, 2. WW1, WW2, JP. kilatools. 19th and 20th century issue, traditional kothimora. Bushcraft, utility, camping, manufacturer, producer, retail, seller, export of high quality blades genuine authentic gurkha knife, antique viking himalayas hillmen warrior soldier, hanshee, budhume, bhojpure, sirupate, style, design, pattern, kami, black smith.

A Gurkha soldier from the 19th century, exact date unknown, though 1817 is given in the book "Britain´s Gurkhas (2009)" it important to bear in mind the camera was not used much until after 1850s in India. 


The first photo studio in India opened in Shimla in 1862 by Charles Shepherd. He partnered with Samuel Bourne and opened a second studio in Kolkata in 1864. Thier photographs plays a important role in the early documentation of South Asia and range from Maharajahs and rulers to daily life and important landmarks. 


Note: the Kukri worn has a handle with geometric pattern inlays (see Fig. 14) and the traditional buttons infront of the scabbard. 

Fig. 12. The tang keeper on the bottom of the Kukri handle (butt), are often based on old traditions and come in a variety of shapes and designs. Influences can at time be seen from European, Chinese and Indian weapons. 

JP Collection (righ & left) Heritage Knives (middle). 

durga grips, gods and handle kukri, World war 1 WW 2 gurkha military khukuri. The Kukri by John Powell knife research book Heritage Knives Nepal Khukuri history and heritage. Article, Image, photo, articles, book, research, antiques, reproduction, gurkha rifles, gorkha regiment, british army, indian military, nepal army, world war 1, 2. WW1, WW2, JP. kilatools. 19th and 20th century issue, traditional kothimora. Bushcraft, utility, camping, manufacturer, producer, retail, seller, export of high quality blades genuine authentic gurkha knife, antique viking himalayas hillmen warrior soldier, hanshee, budhume, bhojpure, sirupate, style, design, pattern, kami, black smith.

A (Budhume) Kukri  with Ivory handle which has been carved with figures of various hindu gods. The reasons why can only be speculated. JP Collection. 

grips, gods and handle kukri, World war 1 WW 2 gurkha military khukuri. The Kukri by John Powell knife research book Heritage Knives Nepal Khukuri history and heritage. Article, Image, photo, articles, book, research, antiques, reproduction, gurkha rifles, gorkha regiment, british army, indian military, nepal army, world war 1, 2. WW1, WW2, JP. kilatools. 19th and 20th century issue, traditional kothimora. Bushcraft, utility, camping, manufacturer, producer, retail, seller, export of high quality blades genuine authentic gurkha knife, antique viking himalayas hillmen warrior soldier, hanshee, budhume, bhojpure, sirupate, style, design, pattern, kami, black smith.

A slim kukri with a metal handle which may have been re-hilted judging from the images. JP Collection.

hanshee grips, gods and handle kukri, World war 1 WW 2 gurkha military khukuri. The Kukri by John Powell knife research book Heritage Knives Nepal Khukuri history and heritage. Article, Image, photo, articles, book, research, antiques, reproduction, gurkha rifles, gorkha regiment, british army, indian military, nepal army, world war 1, 2. WW1, WW2, JP. kilatools. 19th and 20th century issue, traditional kothimora. Bushcraft, utility, camping, manufacturer, producer, retail, seller, export of high quality blades genuine authentic gurkha knife, antique viking himalayas hillmen warrior soldier, hanshee, budhume, bhojpure, sirupate, style, design, pattern, kami, black smith.

A beautiful Hanshee Kukri from the early to mid 19th century with a spine that has patterns inlayed, indicating it may have belonged to someone important or wealthy. JP Collection. 

The grip is not only a good indicator of style, but of quality as well. An important thing to look for when examining a kukri is not only how well matched the grip and blade are, but also how well the bolster and butt plate are fitted. Look for any cracks since these will eventually increase in size with severe changes in temperature or humidity.

Editor´s note, Chapter 5 was the last chapter (somewhat) completed by JP which we know off, the end seems a little abrupt as well as he has added a short section on restoration of handles. There is in my impression room for further research, clarification of ideas and much more as the Kukri still is missing a large amount of quality research. If you are conducting any research on the Kukri please get in touch with us. 


Heritage Knives has tried to add releveant articles and research by several authors for our followers enjoyment and knowledge. JP should be remembered as a early reseacher and a guiding factor as we expand further in the realms of knowledge and understanding of the Kukri knife. 

 Restoring ivory or the exotic horn grips should be left to a professional, but both the basic buffalo horn and wooden grips can be fixed with epoxy mixed with the dust of the grip to be fixed. Putting the entire knife in a 250° (editor’s note: Fahrenheit or 121 Celsius) oven for 45 minutes to 1 hour and then wiggling it off can remove grips held on with just laha. Putting it back on with the bolster intact can be more of a problem. Scales are easier to remove, but you should have the proper rivets when rebuilding your knife.

carved metal grips, gods and handle kukri, World war 1 WW 2 gurkha military khukuri. The Kukri by John Powell knife research book Heritage Knives Nepal Khukuri history and heritage. Article, Image, photo, articles, book, research, antiques, reproduction, gurkha rifles, gorkha regiment, british army, indian military, nepal army, world war 1, 2. WW1, WW2, JP. kilatools. 19th and 20th century issue, traditional kothimora. Bushcraft, utility, camping, manufacturer, producer, retail, seller, export of high quality blades genuine authentic gurkha knife, antique viking himalayas hillmen warrior soldier, hanshee, budhume, bhojpure, sirupate, style, design, pattern, kami, black smith.

A early 20th century Kukri with a decorated metal hilt, many of these seems to have been favoured by Indian Army Officer´s around the WW1 and interwar era. JP Collection. 

sirmoor nahan india, grips, gods and handle kukri, World war 1 WW 2 gurkha military khukuri. The Kukri by John Powell knife research book Heritage Knives Nepal Khukuri history and heritage. Article, Image, photo, articles, book, research, antiques, reproduction, gurkha rifles, gorkha regiment, british army, indian military, nepal army, world war 1, 2. WW1, WW2, JP. kilatools. 19th and 20th century issue, traditional kothimora. Bushcraft, utility, camping, manufacturer, producer, retail, seller, export of high quality blades genuine authentic gurkha knife, antique viking himalayas hillmen warrior soldier, hanshee, budhume, bhojpure, sirupate, style, design, pattern, kami, black smith.

The famous Nahan/Sirmoor Kukri from 1890 AD. Nahan is the capital of Sirmoor District in Himachal Pradesh, India. There is reason to believe this piece may have been made in the UK. 

Spiral Collection. 

Continue to Chapter 5 A: Garuda Style Grips. 

CITES hanshee carving grips, gods and handle kukri, World war 1 WW 2 gurkha military khukuri. The Kukri by John Powell knife research book Heritage Knives Nepal Khukuri history and heritage. Article, Image, photo, articles, book, research, antiques, reproduction, gurkha rifles, gorkha regiment, british army, indian military, nepal army, world war 1, 2. WW1, WW2, JP. kilatools. 19th and 20th century issue, traditional kothimora. Bushcraft, utility, camping, manufacturer, producer, retail, seller, export of high quality blades genuine authentic gurkha knife, antique viking himalayas hillmen warrior soldier, hanshee, budhume, bhojpure, sirupate, style, design, pattern, kami, black smith.

A rare Hanshee Kukri with a elaborately carved handle. The motives and patterns do not match traditional Nepalese or north Indian styles and remains with question of the hilts origin. 

Formerly in the Gurkha Antiques Collection.

grips, gods and handle kukri, World war 1 WW 2 gurkha military khukuri. The Kukri by John Powell knife research book Heritage Knives Nepal Khukuri history and heritage. Article, Image, photo, articles, book, research, antiques, reproduction, gurkha rifles, gorkha regiment, british army, indian military, nepal army, world war 1, 2. WW1, WW2, JP. kilatools. 19th and 20th century issue, traditional kothimora. Bushcraft, utility, camping, manufacturer, producer, retail, seller, export of high quality blades genuine authentic gurkha knife, antique viking himalayas hillmen warrior soldier, hanshee, budhume, bhojpure, sirupate, style, design, pattern, kami, black smith.

Two hilts of the so called Sirmoor Kukri, approx. 10 pieces are known of this style but only one with the scabbard marked "Nahan Sirmoor." 

JP Collection. 

horse handle, grips, gods and handle kukri, World war 1 WW 2 gurkha military khukuri. The Kukri by John Powell knife research book Heritage Knives Nepal Khukuri history and heritage. Article, Image, photo, articles, book, research, antiques, reproduction, gurkha rifles, gorkha regiment, british army, indian military, nepal army, world war 1, 2. WW1, WW2, JP. kilatools. 19th and 20th century issue, traditional kothimora. Bushcraft, utility, camping, manufacturer, producer, retail, seller, export of high quality blades genuine authentic gurkha knife, antique viking himalayas hillmen warrior soldier, hanshee, budhume, bhojpure, sirupate, style, design, pattern, kami, black smith.

A very rare Kukri with a animal head which may be a horse or something else. It´s not common for Nepalese made weapons to have horse heads on them but it is more common in Persian and Indo-persian swords and knives. 

JP Collection.

For information on Heritage Knives reproductions for use please press HERE.

Find our more about the History and Heritage of the Kukri knife, 

press HERE.

grips, gods and handle kukri, World war 1 WW 2 gurkha military khukuri. The Kukri by John Powell knife research book Heritage Knives Nepal Khukuri history and heritage. Article, Image, photo, articles, book, research, antiques, reproduction, gurkha rifles, gorkha regiment, british army, indian military, nepal army, world war 1, 2. WW1, WW2, JP. kilatools. 19th and 20th century issue, traditional kothimora. Bushcraft, utility, camping, manufacturer, producer, retail, seller, export of high quality blades genuine authentic gurkha knife, antique viking himalayas hillmen warrior soldier, hanshee, budhume, bhojpure, sirupate, style, design, pattern, kami, black smith.

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