How to Find a Good Khukri

The Gurkha, a people from Nepal and northern India, are world-famous for two reasons: their bravery in conflict and their large knives. The world at large knows this knife as a "Khukri." Outdoorsmen all over the world seek out the Khukri as a rugged bush knife that can clear brush, cut firewood and handle just about any task that is beyond the capabilities of a smaller knife.

This popularity has lead to the production of copies that look like a real Khukri, but cannot withstand the abuse that the genuine article shrugs off.

Things You'll Need

  • Tape measure
  • Knife manufacturers' brochures
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Instructions

    • 1

      Check knife shops and any other place that sells knives. Measure the blade length and thickness of any Khukri knife you find. The blade should be at least 12 inches long and more than 1/8-inch thick on the back or spine, with 1/4-inch being better. Some of the originals are as much as 1/2-inch thick.

    • 2

      Look at the base of the blade. If it says "440," "stainless," or "rostfrei," it is stainless steel and you should avoid it. Stainless steel will not withstand the abuse that a good carbon steel will. The Ghurka knifemakers often make them from truck springs.

    • 3

      Ask the seller where the knife was made. A real Khukri will be from Nepal. A U.S.-made Khukri-pattern knife should be good as well, so long as it meets the rest of the criteria mentioned above.