Gurkha kukri, Chainpuri style, Indian (c 1860)

Title	Gurkha kukri, Chainpuri style
Nationality	Indian
Period	c 1860

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Typically these would have been carried by Gurkhas in the many frontier campaigns in the last half of the 19th century, as well as by Nepalese civilians back home. Issue kukris were only developed in WW1, everything prior to that being a case of private purchase by the Gurkhas.

This beautifully balanced example has a 12.5-inch blade and a rosewood grip. The shape of the grip and the blade both indicate a relatively early origin, since the later types had fatter grips and heavier blades. Photos from the Mutiny period show similar grips, but half as long again.

This comes complete with horn mounted byknives, consisting of: a sharpening steel; a skinner; a lancet (for minor surgery). There is also a wallet in the back pocket of the scabbard.

At the base of the scabbard is an old field repair in brown calf leather and there is a small chip out of the pommel. Otherwise the piece is in excellent shape for its age and still has a razor-sharp edge.

If you want to comment on this item—re quality, age, etc—please email me.

[Edged Weapons : Dirks : Indian : 19th Century]

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