Khukuri Terminology | Kukri Terminology | Glossary

By kh_admin blog

Understanding the terminology associated with Kukri is paramount for enthusiasts, collectors, and those passionate about the craft. This glossary serves as a comprehensive guide, providing insights into the anatomy of Kukri. From the intricacies of the blade, such as edges, notches, and grooves, to the components of the handle, including grips and bolsters, each Kukri terminology from Kukri House Online unveils a layer of the rich tapestry that is the world of Kukri knives.

Kukri Terminology

5160 Steel

5160 steel is a type of alloy steel that is primarily composed of iron, carbon, and a small amount of chromium and manganese. The “5160” designation refers to the specific chemical composition of this steel alloy. The alloy’s specific composition and heat treatment processes contribute to its desirable mechanical properties, striking a balance between hardness and toughness. In more detail:

Iron (Fe): The base element, providing the structural foundation of the steel.
Carbon (C): Contributes to the steel’s hardness and strength. In the case of 5160 steel, the carbon content typically ranges from 0.56% to 0.64%.
Chromium (Cr): Enhances the steel’s hardenability and corrosion resistance. In 5160 steel, chromium content is usually around 0.7% to 0.9%.
Manganese (Mn): A deoxidizer and a hardenability enhancer. Manganese content in 5160 steel is typically between 0.75% and 1.00%.

5160 steel is known for its excellent toughness, high yield strength, and resilience, making it a popular choice for various applications, especially in the manufacturing of springs and blades. It is commonly used in the production of automotive leaf springs due to its ability to withstand repeated stress and deformation without breaking.

Angkhola Kukri

The Angkhola Kukri is a specific style characterized by a more pronounced “cho” (notch) and a broader, curved belly. This design is well-suited for chopping and is considered a classic form of the kukri. Different kukri styles, including the Angkhola, cater to specific preferences and intended uses.

Belly

The belly is the curved portion of the blade, located between the tip and the cho. It plays a crucial role in the kukri’s chopping and slicing capabilities, providing a curved surface for efficient cutting.

Bhojpure Kukri

The Bhojpure Kukri is another variant known for its wider blade and pronounced curvature. It is named after the Bhojpur region of Nepal, where this style is believed to have originated. The design of the Bhojpure kukri enhances its chopping capabilities, making it suitable for agricultural and everyday tasks.

Blade (बाड़् - bāṛ)

The blade is the main cutting portion of the kukri. It typically has an inwardly curved shape with a sharp edge. The blade’s design, including the belly, cho (notch), and tip, contributes to its functionality for chopping, slicing, and other tasks.

Bolster (काँजो - kã̄jo)

The bolster is a thickened portion of the blade near the guard or hilt, providing strength and support.

Ceremonial Kukri

A ceremonial kukri is a specially crafted kukri often used in formal events, presentations, or military ceremonies. These kukris may have ornate decorations, engravings, or distinctive features, and they are symbolic representations of honor, bravery, and tradition.

Chakmak

The Chakmak is a honing tool that typically accompanies a kukri. It has a blunt edge and is used for maintaining the sharpness of the kukri blade by honing and sharpening.

Chirra

A term that refers to the curvature or hump in the blade, which is designed to absorb impact and increase strength.

Cho (Kukri Notch)

The cho is a distinctive notch near the hilt of the kukri. It serves both symbolic and practical purposes. Symbolically, it is associated with the goddess Kali, while practically, it allows blood to drip off the blade and prevents it from reaching the handle.

Edge (धार् - dhār)

The edge is the sharp side of the blade, used for cutting.

Fire striker / sharpening steel (चक्मक् - cakmak)

A tool used for striking sparks to start a fire or for sharpening the blade.
These terms collectively describe various components and features associated with knives and blades, providing a comprehensive understanding of their structure and accessories such as zweihander blade.

Forging Techniques

The process of crafting a kukri involves various forging techniques that contribute to its unique characteristics. Skilled blacksmiths use traditional methods to shape, heat-treat, and temper the blade, resulting in a durable and functional tool. The forging techniques can vary, leading to distinct styles of kukris.

Fulcrum (Kukri Chopping Block)

In traditional kukri use, the fulcrum or kukri chopping block is a wooden surface against which the kukri is struck when chopping. This technique enhances the chopping power and efficiency of the kukri.

Full Tang

“Full tang” refers to the construction of a knife where the blade extends through the handle, providing a solid and continuous piece of metal from the tip of the blade to the end of the handle. Many traditional kukris are full tang, which enhances their durability and strength.

Grip (बिँड़् - bĩṛ)

The grip is the handle or part of the weapon held by the user.

Groove (खोल् - khol)

Grooves, also known as fullers or blood grooves, are long, narrow indentations along the base of the blade. They are designed to reduce weight while maintaining strength.

Gurkha Kukri

The term “Gurkha Kukri” specifically refers to the kukri knife associated with the Gurkha people, who are renowned for their military service. The Gurkhas, originating from Nepal, have a long-standing tradition of using the kukri both in everyday life and in the military. The Gurkha kukri is often of high quality, with variations in size and design depending on its intended use.

Gurkha Regiment

The Gurkha Regiment refers to military units composed of soldiers from Nepal, known as Gurkhas. These soldiers have a long history of serving in various armies worldwide, including the British and Indian armies. The Gurkhas are closely associated with the kukri, which is an integral part of their cultural and military heritage.

Gurkha

The term “Gurkha” refers to the people of Nepal, particularly those of the Gurkha ethnic group. It is also commonly used to describe soldiers of Nepalese origin who serve in the military, especially the Gurkha regiments known for their bravery and loyalty.

Hilt (Handle)

The hilt, also known as the handle, is the grip of the kukri. It is where the user holds the knife. Kukri handles are often made of wood, horn, or other materials. The shape and construction of the hilt vary, influencing the overall feel and balance of the kukri.

Karda

The Karda is a small utility knife that is often included as part of a kukri set. It has a sharp edge and is used for tasks that require more precision than the kukri itself.

Kukri

“Kukri” refers to a distinctive and traditional Nepalese knife with a curved blade that is used as both a tool and a weapon. The kukri is characterized by its inwardly curved edge and a broader blade towards the tip. It typically has a distinctive notch near the hilt called a “cho,” which is both a design feature and has symbolic significance.

Kukri Knife

The term “Kukri Knife” is a redundancy, as “kukri” itself denotes a type of knife. However, it is often used to emphasize that the kukri is a functional and versatile knife design. The kukri knife has a long history and is associated with the Gurkha warriors of Nepal. It is known for its effectiveness as a multipurpose tool, serving roles such as chopping, cutting, and even as a weapon.

Notch (कौड़ो - kauro)

A notch is a V-shaped cut or indentation in the blade, often serving a specific purpose or having symbolic significance.

Pommel

The pommel is the rounded or flat end of the handle. In some kukris, the pommel is designed for additional functionality, such as being used as an improvised hammer or for striking.

Purse carried in the sheath (खिसा - khisā)

A purse or small bag that is carried in the sheath, often for holding small items.

Rat Tail Tang

In contrast to full tang, some kukris may have a “rat tail tang,” where the metal of the blade extends only partially into the handle, resembling the shape of a rat’s tail. While this design is less robust than a full tang, it is still functional for many purposes.

Ridge (of fuller) (चिरा - cirā)

The ridge, in this context, refers to the raised portion along the fuller (groove) of the blade.

Scabbard (दाप् - dāp, dāb)

The scabbard is a sheath or case that holds and protects the blade when the weapon is not in use. It is usually made of wood or leather and provides protection for the blade. The scabbard may also have additional compartments for the Karda and Chakmak.

Shoulder of Kukri (पातो - pāto)

The shoulder of the blade refers to the area where the blade meets the tang or handle.

Silver chape (कोथि - kothi)

A chape is a metal fitting at the end of the scabbard. A silver chape would be a chape made of silver.

Small utility knife (कर्द - karda)

A small knife used for various utility tasks.

Spine (Kukri)

The spine of the kukri refers to the opposite side of the cutting edge. Unlike many Western knives, the spine of the kukri is often unsharpened and is sometimes used for tasks requiring a blunt edge, such as hammering or pounding.

Tang

The tang is the portion of the blade that extends into the handle. In a full tang kukri, the metal of the blade runs the full length of the handle, providing strength and durability. A rat tail tang is a narrower extension that doesn’t run the full length.

Tip

The tip is the pointed end of the blade. In kukris, the tip is often slightly downturned, contributing to the knife’s chopping efficiency. The tip is used for detailed cutting tasks and can be effective for piercing.