i love using a kukri in the woods it is a great tool. i like how it can be used as many tools for many jobs it even makes a prety good draw knife. great video thanks
I've seen lots of posers and children on CZcams, kids. This man is the real deal. No pretention, no bullshit; just personal stories and solid advice. Massive respect, my friend.
I fully agree sir. I just recently discovered his videos (but I watched hundreds of others) and this man carries so much knowledge and experience while remaining down to earth and modest. To me he is a modern Kephart. He reallly should be writing books. ATB from Flanders (Belgium)
This truly is the best, most informative and articulated video on Kukuri blades I have watched to date. subscribed now and I am currently watching the second video now
Great video. I especially liked your explanation about the purpose of the notch and how it keeps the brittle hardened edge from reaching the handle. Loads of practical knowledge on this amazing knife. Well done.
His explanation is bunk. The cookery makers in Nepal in the one major store had lots of Americans and others questioning them about that cut out so they basically made up some bullshit. There's no way a cutout like that would add flexible strength to the molecular structure of the steel.
@@theeasywayoutcampers6550 It does. That's why they also do them in certain steel construction. Various bladesmiths, not just from Nepal, but all over have talked about how such holes or notches in the steel make for a stiffer, yet more flexible blade that better absorbs the shocks, blows, and flexing. It's a real thing. I believe it.
@lobo..as i understand it the way they harden the edge in nepal is the knife blade is heated to a certain point..then cold water is poured from a kettle along the edge..this makes a very hard and thus relatively brittle edge..so a notch out in the hard edge will prevent cracking.. thanks for the comments guys...safe journeys
Great video! I am a fan of the kukri design myself, I have a standard size kukri for every day use. But I now carry the Cold Steel Rajah 2 because its easier to carry every day getting in and out of a car and does not attract attention hanging on a belt.
Say Heah Blackie, I took that challenge you took from the year of the Kukuri, with my Machaxe BK-4,0although I brought it on myself. I understand the concept, Here is what I'm finding out. As a chopper my BK-9 out chops it, as a machete, I like my Parangatang better because it's longer, But after all it is called a Machaxe. Just because it doesn't look like a conventional large knife, It still has those two attributes it can still be used as a small clearing tool to clear your way through the heavy stuff and it can chop, So as a large knife, I did what I normally would do with a large knife. This is a isolated experience, Last 4th of July we went out, I brought a smaller knife with my large knife, I could of used many other smaller knives, But I took my BK-2 since it is called the Companion. and the two complimented eachother just fine. I have both very sharp on my Work Sharp, so I actually coukd use my BK-2 to work wood pretty good for such a thick blade, But I also know it's a darn good survival knife on its own. I also had my Mora 510 around my neck and since I didn't have to process alot of firewood to stay warm it actually was a great large knife to bring along. But together, I was able to accomplish everything I had to. I'm also learning I don't always have to hold my knife by the handle, But I hold it in certain possitions to accomplish what I'm doing and that goes for every knife I'm using. I find because the BK-4 has that Kukuri Shape your talking about, I found using it as a large knife is where it shines. Another thing, The BK-4 and the BK-5 are discontinued, So this is a good time to get one since the prices have come down, I really believe both of them will be collectors. Nice to see you in this video again, Actually you got me interested in Khukuris and Kukuries.
That Kukri Machete is a great yard tool. I reprofiled my Cold Steel, and it has been excellent cutter. Very resilient. I think I paid 11 bucks for mine, with the sheath.
hey..to be honest i do not remember the exact size and weight of that model but if you will look in my video i show a side by side of all of my khukris..ju comapre the cold steel one and i know its size is listed on the cold steel web site..weight was 2-3 pounds it was a one hand axe..thanks for the comments..safe journeys
Thanx Blackie, You gave me the idea, I bought a M-43 British Military Issue Khukuri I think going back to W.W. 1. Anyhow how it's a big piece of steel, Oh its a Beast alright but it gets pretty heavy to carry on person, so I always attached it to my backpack, But when I first seen your smaller Kukuri, that gave me the idea, I had a smaller M-43 made and now I can on person carry it very comfortably but yet it's a great chopper too. We're going out soon again and this is why I'm surfing the Tube. I'm thinking of taking my large Khukuri with a Full Tang and Black Buffalo Horn Handle, I'm also taking a Belt Knife my BK or Magnum Series Vox Collection 2011 Knife a 6"+ Blade made out of 440c. I grew up on that Stainless and at one time it was top of the line before the new super steel's came out. Properly Tempered it holds a decent edge and sort of easy to sharpen. I also got lucky because the knife I'm also taking is my Vintage Myerchin Pocket Knife with the Marlin Spike to untangle knots, but not only does the Myerchin match but is also a good quality 440c stainless and even the blade shape matches it's a modified Warrencliff for the delicate tasks and it's a good carver also. The Myerchin is a Mariner Knife but it's robust and very sharp and it also works wood good. So I didn't have to buy any cutting tool's for the trip and yet it's a great matching set. We will bring an axe and a saw and plenty of food and we're planing to make a shelter for future trios. Thanx for sharing your knowlege.
@superbamseninja..yep its a wood handle mora..it is my go to knife for detail carving and camp food duties...if you check out my video on beginning bushcraft you will see my knife selection and my reasons for carring them.. thanks for the comment and safe journeys
Say Heah, I think the M-43 was the first British Military Issue Khukuris, That's why I bought my Copy because it's a Full Tang and it's a Beast. I have several Belt Knives I could team it with. As far as best looking combo would be my Biker 2011 Vox Collection 6" blade a real retro design and go together great. Boot IMHO got the Tempering down path on the 440c. and I have to agree, The knife holds a great edge and most of the time, all I have to do is give it a good stropping to get the edge back to real sharp. But I also like my INFIMandu which is a Ratmandu but in the INFI Steel. Another great combo and perhaps one of my Fav's. When I ordered the smaller M-43,0Yangdu and her husband Bill (R. I. P.) They surprised me and sent me a White Handle Presentation Khukuris but a very formidable chopper I'm it's own right. The problem was I only had a White Handle U. S. A. Schrade Scrimshaw Sharpfinger. So I looked for a better match. I finally got a Battle Horse Attitude modified a little. I had the Attitude Slightly Curved, and I asked them at Battle Horse to Curve Lower the Drop Point, like some of the High End Bushcraft Knives except mine came out 5 1/4" blade. Now I can push cut with my thumb with no problem what so ever and I think that's a great design for a Bush Craft Knife, I got it with a White G-10 Handle and Blue Liners, A outstanding combo that's simply TiT's, Beautiful. The Quality/Price Ratio is Outstanding. I can also squeeze the White Handle Sharpfinger if I want, It's scary sharp and a high carbon stainless that's great for food prep. Thanx Blackie, If it wasn't for me watching your channel, I don't know if I ever would of got one of my Fav's Combos. Thanx, Blackie and I Wish you a Safe Memorial Day.
A kukri is the most awesome videos invented by the minds of man. In the future I hope they come out with a lightsaber version! :) I own the Gurka kukri (the real one) It's awesome. You don't need a saw. It works as a planer. it splits wood. It's the only knife you bring besides your skinning knife in your multie tool. The kukri is perfection.
I was actually doing some study between kukri vs duku chandong. Both are awesome and gets the job done. The technical review from you is detailed sir.i've subscribed to your channel .
The blood drip garbage is just one of many mythical explanation from people who don't know what it is. Blackie's explanation here is the most accurate you will find.
Thanx Blackie, that's why I had the smaller Khukuri made, and I agree about the larger Khukuri, that it will get the job done faster, you do know your stuff, Happy Holiday's.
Glad to see someone get the purpose of the cho/kaura/kardi/karda correct. The stuff about it being a blood drip-off device is nonsense. These notches exist on the majority of genuine kukhuris, and BMI military kukris. They are thus found on the majority of these blades, this majority exist as tools rather than weapons, and thus do not need any blood-clearance device. Similarly, even where the kukri is intended as a weapon the claim of a blood-drip off point is fallacious nonsense. Real CQB with any blade , and especially a full on kukri recurve style weapon would include en masses back-cuts where you club with the spine, reverse grip hammer smashes , and regular pummelling hammer-strikes with the pommel. This means , in real world use , blood and any and all body fluids and gloops , go everywhere . It gets all over the blade, handle , and hand. the neat assumption of blood politely running down the sharp edge is a mistake made in dancing classes in martial arts dojos. the cho (etc) is a shock absorber , pure and simple . It is formed in manners that reflect a variety of spiritual symbology, but it is , in practical terms exacftly the shock absorber the 'author' describes. One thing I would correct the 'author' on... a large kuri is not an axe... The axe is a badly designed kukri... :D BTW... Sirupate... was what you wee looking for for the longer thinner blade. named after a leaf form found in Nepal ... and I believe pronounced 'siroopatteee' .
Don't be mistaken, the axe is the older tool. An axe is an axe and it will absolutely out-chop any khukuri of the same quality. It still carves and cuts veggies at the end of the day. We all have our prefered tool, no need to shit on the other.
Hey, great video. I just wanted to put my 2 cents in regarding the little notch near the handle of the kukri at the base of the blade. The gurkhas had the notch placed there so that the blood of the enemy wouldn't flow to the handle. If you look at the notch, it's designed so that the blood would drip off. Just a cool, fun fact.
Check antique butcher knives and cleavers of this shape. Ridges and different thickness works great for the durability of the spot where the "cho" or notch is placed. This is not a breaking point. Probably has some more simple and utility purpose, like holding a string tied on the spot for temporary hand guard or other reason, as well as for easier sharpening purposes like on many blades.
Blackie excellent intro! I used an HI M43 Kukri as my primary blade over a several year survival living ordeal. It is an even better performer than the AngKhola's. The 12" AngKhola such as the small kuk you show is IMHO the most underrated survival knife out there. The M43 as the Chiruwas AngKhola is full tang so no chance of tang failure.
Next paycheck I'm going to get a 10" blade British Army Service kukri. Finally found a european retailer!! Probably not Himalayan Imports. But it is Nepalese, made from a truckspring and the provided pictures and the customer reviews are good. Worth the wager in my opinion.
I got my 1st and 2nd Khukuris from Himalayian Imports, my 1st Khukuri was the M43, blk buffalo horn slab's on a full tang, 28"+ and about a 1/2" thick 5160 deferentially tempered, love at first sight.
Say Heah Blackie, WoW, I remember when you first came out with this video. In fact it was a inspiration for me to get into Lhukuris and Kukuri.I have (2)Lhuris, Both are the M-43 by H.I. In fact Uncle Bill (R.I.P.) made both for me, The larger one is with a Black Buffalo Horn and the smaller one he made in some White Bone, Both are beautiful and yet very functional, my smaller one (10" X 7m/m thick) is lite enough to carry easier because its lighter. But then C.S. came out with a Kukuri Plus in O1 (not a machete) and 5/16" thick I teamed up with my SM3 Master Hunter, A lovely piece of kit. I really like using this set, Your right, I just add a Saw to this combo and I can accomplish most everything I want to do considering its not freezing weather. Because you need a Axe to process alot of firewwod to stay warm, But you can get by until your rescued with this set in a survival situation. Oh, I also have a C.S. Rajah 1, its a Pocket Kukuri, its 6" blade Folder made out of a 6061 Aluminum single billet. (CNC). Yeah, Its a serious pocket knife. I also have a BK-31 on the way, Its also a Kukuri and not a Khukuri, but nor a machete although it's only a 3/16" thick, But the size, shape its a very formidable chopper. Boy, Blackie, this was a fast six years, Thanx You for all the valuable information I learned from you. Thanx You.,,.
I truly appreciate your Video's, in just a short time I learned so much, Thanx, but I would like to share this with you, I buy blades by steel type, my Khukuris are 5160 leaf spring steel, good stuff, I just bought a Golok by Bark River, in the A 1 steel, Blacked let me tell you, its a great chopper, the reason I got it is, I'm so impressed with my Bravo 1, I had to get the Golok, I wish you could try it. Jason at DLT Trading gave me great deals on both of them. Excellent steel that A 2 is.
I'm glad to see another Kukri fan out there. I love all of my Kukri's, all of mine are not imported from Nepal there either American made or made in Japan or China but there all good blades. None of them are the cheap stuff.
Say Heah Blackie, Everytime I use one of my Khukuris or Kukuri, I think of you. Well this week I'm practicing with my O. K. C. Gen2 SP-53 what a excellent chopper, I teamed it with my Ranger T. F. I, Aces. ,, .
@blackoracle69 the notch is to allow blood to run off the blade to stop it getting on the grip and it sliding off your hand whilst in battle, it also acts as a segregated edge at such, if your going to slaughter a cow for example it acts as a guide
@ foolishgibberish..the big angkola and a few others were given as gifts or traded off..the big ang went to a very large young man headed to afganistan...he returned from that tour with several stories of how it came in handy..thanks for the comments..safe journeys
Hi Blackie. You once mentioned a Kukri that broke on you on it's 1st use. I just had a similar problem. My new Kukri has the rat tail going through the handle. On it's 1st use I was chopping into a pine branch and the small brass cap at the tip of the handle came off followed by the larger brass cap attached to the bone handle itself. I remember seeing a couple in this condition with the guys in the military. Common problem maybe. Will be sending back to the supplier in exchange for a full tang.
I don't know what that cutout is but that's not a relief cut because from an engineering standpoint that doesn't make any sense. It would work as slight shock absorber to possibly save your hands but removing a chunk of metal will actually decrease the overall durability, even if the steel is differentially hardened. If the edge is that brittle to begin with, chunks would just chip out in other areas when you use it.
The information is wrong about the notch near the handle. The w shaped notch is for the blood to drip down fast to the ground before reaching the handle. The shape of the Khukuri is designed to be effective in chopping heads and limbs in the battle. When Gorkhas chop off head, they hit the enemy in the neck so precisely that the narrow part (just above the w shaped notch) touches first so that it also slices through the enemy's neck.
the relief cut is also there for combat aspects aswell. when fighting with the kukri obviously it gets covered in blood and the relief cut helps stop the blood from reaching the handle so you can keep a secure grip and have it not slip and slide.
That channel will direct the blood towards your index finger as well, so you can choke up on your grip, extend your finger and flick blood in an opponents eyes (you would need it to be coated in a lot of blood, and a tiller/blood well leading towards the relief). But what the uploader said made perfect sense.
... well not really Mr.Sandydown, the groove thats cut would misdirect the blood, it would drip off because when fighting with knives one would not hold the knife completely vertical . normally it would be at an angle, blade facing the opponent and the blade leaning to one side with your other hand up to protect the neck and other vital areas incase of a break through the defenses.(then again im not certain who taught you your knife fighting technique, but thats how i was taught and similar to how the Gurkha's train). so in such a case where you would get in to a fighting stance with your knife that may resemble this in almost any way, shape or form the it would drip off easily.
re: CS "Kukri shaped machete" exactly. re: axe "when you pick one of these up that's what you should be thinking" best safety advice for them! re: "cho", finally a proper explanation.
One thing, and you may very well be right about what those little chips out of the blade do for the metal, I've heard that it's so blood doesn't run onto the handle & make the grip slippery. Maybe it's something that was designed for one thing, but it worked out for the functionality of it. Great videos (had a problem drawing them, myself- your video cleared up that question; thanks). Maybe you could do some videos of you doing various tasks & campwork with the kukri?
I didnt even know they made the tiny kukri..that would fit an old womans hand and cutting needs..maybe even self defense in close quarters..thank you!!!
But I found it a bit heavy to carry all day long, so I asked Yangdu kf she would order me a smaller M43 since I love the W.W.2 design, she told me any configuration is possible since they are hand made, she has real good Kamis working for her, do I ordered a 10th" blade, 15.5" OAL, about 7.5m/m, what a beauty, also it has a white horn handle, light but what tank, my smaller knives now go around my neck, my new Bushcraft/survival Khukuri is on my belt, if I need my Transforms Bruks,
I love Kuks...great vid. I think I'm going to grab one from HI as my next blade purchase....just don't tell my girlfriend. She'll say "Why do you need a big knife like that??" and I'll say "Go watch ol Blackie's kuk video and you'll understand".
Well done man, i have the cold steel kukri machete and love mine as well. Tho i just got a schrade new design kukri, and was just getting some info on them. I wanted to see your take on them so thanks.
Hi, Love your videos. The Kurri is Something I've been looking for a while but I'm not sure if I wanted to have one. You convinced me with your Series to try one out in the field. can you tell me the blade size of the officers model and the one that you use for your every day chopper. Thanks for your time to make these videos.
It's nothing to do with chopping heads. It's an everyday utility blade used around the house for many tasks, comes in many shapes and sizes for different specific tasks. The ceremonial decapitation one is much longer then a standard Kukri.
@meddice..sorry to hear that..thats why i recomend a good full power testing of any new kit beofre taking it to the field..if its gonna fail better to do so at home than miles from no where ..good luck with you khukri...safe journeys
@Shardalon the size of that one is 12 inch overal..with a7 1/2/ inch blade..for me it is the perfect size to a be a kukri knife..that handles small chopping..but is still small enough for use in food prep and basic camp chores..i got it off ebay search for jungle kukri you might find it ...safe journeys
I've heard that the notch was also used to drip blood off the blade when fighting so it wouldn't make the user's hand slippery. Also I've heard it's supposed to look like a cow's foot since cows are sacred in Hindu culture. Your explanation makes more sense then anything else i've heard though.
Very good. I don't know much about them other than what I've seen on the web and youtube. They may be the best looking knife out there and I say that being a fan of the Bowie style knife all my life. ( I'm from Texas.) Would like to see more about pricing in you next vid. I noticed Cold Steel had 2 nice ones in their catalog and there was a couple hundred dollars difference and they seemed very very similar in size. They may have had different type steel. I don't remember.
Say Heah Blackie, I come to you for advice, because I know you know your Khukuris, in your opinion what would you consider to be a good all around size for a Khukuri ? and what is your favorite size Khukuri ? and which Khukuri do you use the most when your in the out of door's ?
Nice video. Kukri's have been made for a long time but only used in Nepal. The latin machete has been used for many years in the entire south and middle America. Add the bolo, parang, golok, barong, etc to it and you have way more use in the world than just the Nepal area. I'm not saying a kukri is not good. On the contrary. I'm just saying if it was that great of a design it would have been adopted by many tribes all over the world. There's noting you can do with a kukri style machete that you can't do with a 12 inch Tramontina latin machete that will cost some 10 dollars (17 with sheath). There's nothing you can do with a medium size kukri that you can't do with a large bowie, etc. Talking about sheaths. The kukri's have the worst sheaths. They also are kinda heavy and front heavy. That makes working with a kukri fatigue you more most of all when cutting. I do agree that a large blade or machete is in most cases a way better and safer option than an ax, unless you are homesteading or building a log house, but in those cases I would prefer a chain saw.
Your Kukri challenge wouldn't be extremely difficult if you could use the small Karda knife that comes with the kukris. Now if I couldn't use that it'd be rough.
@paulie4x1..of those choices i would take the 15 for the greater chopping ability..the shorter is a better belt carry ..but the larger gets the work done with less effort..safe journeys
I have one from ww1 (issued to artie and mgs to clear the bushes in front of their gun) the scabbard is covered by what looks like blood - five notches in the handle - so strange for a ww1 US made weapon.
The 1year Khukuri-challange would not be that hard if the models made for export had a decent Karda, i.e. the companion knife that comes with the Khukuri. On the domestic Khukuris they are proper utility knives with up to 3" - 4" blades, not the flimsy toys that you normally get in the West.
Thanks for the great videos on the kukri. Maybe this is mentioned somewhere in the videos or someone else has asked and I missed it, but what is the blade length of larger of the two kukris that you feature in these videos?
Some of the modern repos are almost too thick. Some experts say they are more crowbar than knife. The edge is very hard and hard to sharpen. I have a M1937 Indian Army Gurkha Kukri (not the United Cutlery/Atlanta Cutlery cheap one). Mine was sold by SARCO. I cold blued the blade to prevent corrosion and reshaped the handle to fit my hand perfectly. It is long and thinner. It could not be issue as the design is massive.
the best rule i know..use what works for you..i have had many kukris..i had a dozen of all makes and sizes at one time..but i keep coming back to my old one it suits me the best
I must put my kukri in a video.. (Well I have two, one is original) it is very old and is in original condition needing a polish. I would love to know more about it.
Man im from Nepal im in US army now just wanna appreciate for your knowledge about my country national weapon
my pleasure sir..and thank you for your service..safe journeys
Great loves from India.Any time you are welcome in India
i love using a kukri in the woods it is a great tool. i like how it can be used as many tools for many jobs it even makes a prety good draw knife. great video thanks
I've seen lots of posers and children on CZcams, kids. This man is the real deal. No pretention, no bullshit; just personal stories and solid advice. Massive respect, my friend.
thank you sir..safe journeys to you
I fully agree sir. I just recently discovered his videos (but I watched hundreds of others) and this man carries so much knowledge and experience while remaining down to earth and modest. To me he is a modern Kephart. He reallly should be writing books. ATB from Flanders (Belgium)
This truly is the best, most informative and articulated video on Kukuri blades I have watched to date. subscribed now and I am currently watching the second video now
Excellent video! Your system knowledge is without question. You answered all of my questions about this weapon/tool. It's the best I found on CZcams.
+george A thank you..safe journeys
nice collection I carry my kukri every time I go into the woods. very versatile knife I love it
Great video. I especially liked your explanation about the purpose of the notch and how it keeps the brittle hardened edge from reaching the handle. Loads of practical knowledge on this amazing knife. Well done.
His explanation is bunk. The cookery makers in Nepal in the one major store had lots of Americans and others questioning them about that cut out so they basically made up some bullshit. There's no way a cutout like that would add flexible strength to the molecular structure of the steel.
@@theeasywayoutcampers6550 It does. That's why they also do them in certain steel construction.
Various bladesmiths, not just from Nepal, but all over have talked about how such holes or notches in the steel make for a stiffer, yet more flexible blade that better absorbs the shocks, blows, and flexing. It's a real thing. I believe it.
awesome video ... great depth of details of usage, design and features. Best Video so far.
[pronounced (sea-roo-path-ay) ... thin and longer khukuri ]
Man you are right about the notch. I don’t know why people think they are for other purposes!!!!
@lobo..as i understand it the way they harden the edge in nepal is the knife blade is heated to a certain point..then cold water is poured from a kettle along the edge..this makes a very hard and thus relatively brittle edge..so a notch out in the hard edge will prevent cracking.. thanks for the comments guys...safe journeys
Totally fascinating subject and knife , Blackie. Thank you .
Great video! I am a fan of the kukri design myself, I have a standard size kukri for every day use. But I now carry the Cold Steel Rajah 2 because its easier to carry every day getting in and out of a car and does not attract attention hanging on a belt.
Say Heah Blackie, I took that challenge you took from the year of the Kukuri, with my Machaxe BK-4,0although I brought it on myself. I understand the concept, Here is what I'm finding out. As a chopper my BK-9 out chops it, as a machete, I like my Parangatang better because it's longer, But after all it is called a Machaxe. Just because it doesn't look like a conventional large knife, It still has those two attributes it can still be used as a small clearing tool to clear your way through the heavy stuff and it can chop, So as a large knife, I did what I normally would do with a large knife. This is a isolated experience, Last 4th of July we went out, I brought a smaller knife with my large knife, I could of used many other smaller knives, But I took my BK-2 since it is called the Companion. and the two complimented eachother just fine. I have both very sharp on my Work Sharp, so I actually coukd use my BK-2 to work wood pretty good for such a thick blade, But I also know it's a darn good survival knife on its own. I also had my Mora 510 around my neck and since I didn't have to process alot of firewood to stay warm it actually was a great large knife to bring along. But together, I was able to accomplish everything I had to. I'm also learning I don't always have to hold my knife by the handle, But I hold it in certain possitions to accomplish what I'm doing and that goes for every knife I'm using. I find because the BK-4 has that Kukuri Shape your talking about, I found using it as a large knife is where it shines. Another thing, The BK-4 and the BK-5 are discontinued, So this is a good time to get one since the prices have come down, I really believe both of them will be collectors. Nice to see you in this video again, Actually you got me interested in Khukuris and Kukuries.
That Kukri Machete is a great yard tool. I reprofiled my Cold Steel, and it has been excellent cutter. Very resilient. I think I paid 11 bucks for mine, with the sheath.
Most informative, useful and intelligent video on this tool so far. Thanks.
The kukri is a great tool to have in the woods.
hey..to be honest i do not remember the exact size and weight of that model but if you will look in my video i show a side by side of all of my khukris..ju comapre the cold steel one and i know its size is listed on the cold steel web site..weight was 2-3 pounds it was a one hand axe..thanks for the comments..safe journeys
Thanx Blackie, You gave me the idea, I bought a M-43 British Military Issue Khukuri I think going back to W.W. 1. Anyhow how it's a big piece of steel, Oh its a Beast alright but it gets pretty heavy to carry on person, so I always attached it to my backpack, But when I first seen your smaller Kukuri, that gave me the idea, I had a smaller M-43 made and now I can on person carry it very comfortably but yet it's a great chopper too. We're going out soon again and this is why I'm surfing the Tube. I'm thinking of taking my large Khukuri with a Full Tang and Black Buffalo Horn Handle, I'm also taking a Belt Knife my BK or Magnum Series Vox Collection 2011 Knife a 6"+ Blade made out of 440c. I grew up on that Stainless and at one time it was top of the line before the new super steel's came out. Properly Tempered it holds a decent edge and sort of easy to sharpen. I also got lucky because the knife I'm also taking is my Vintage Myerchin Pocket Knife with the Marlin Spike to untangle knots, but not only does the Myerchin match but is also a good quality 440c stainless and even the blade shape matches it's a modified Warrencliff for the delicate tasks and it's a good carver also. The Myerchin is a Mariner Knife but it's robust and very sharp and it also works wood good. So I didn't have to buy any cutting tool's for the trip and yet it's a great matching set. We will bring an axe and a saw and plenty of food and we're planing to make a shelter for future trios. Thanx for sharing your knowlege.
@superbamseninja..yep its a wood handle mora..it is my go to knife for detail carving and camp food duties...if you check out my video on beginning bushcraft you will see my knife selection and my reasons for carring them.. thanks for the comment and safe journeys
Say Heah, I think the M-43 was the first British Military Issue Khukuris, That's why I bought my Copy because it's a Full Tang and it's a Beast. I have several Belt Knives I could team it with. As far as best looking combo would be my Biker 2011 Vox Collection 6" blade a real retro design and go together great. Boot IMHO got the Tempering down path on the 440c. and I have to agree, The knife holds a great edge and most of the time, all I have to do is give it a good stropping to get the edge back to real sharp. But I also like my INFIMandu which is a Ratmandu but in the INFI Steel. Another great combo and perhaps one of my Fav's. When I ordered the smaller M-43,0Yangdu and her husband Bill (R. I. P.) They surprised me and sent me a White Handle Presentation Khukuris but a very formidable chopper I'm it's own right. The problem was I only had a White Handle U. S. A. Schrade Scrimshaw Sharpfinger. So I looked for a better match. I finally got a Battle Horse Attitude modified a little. I had the Attitude Slightly Curved, and I asked them at Battle Horse to Curve Lower the Drop Point, like some of the High End Bushcraft Knives except mine came out 5 1/4" blade. Now I can push cut with my thumb with no problem what so ever and I think that's a great design for a Bush Craft Knife, I got it with a White G-10 Handle and Blue Liners, A outstanding combo that's simply TiT's, Beautiful. The Quality/Price Ratio is Outstanding. I can also squeeze the White Handle Sharpfinger if I want, It's scary sharp and a high carbon stainless that's great for food prep. Thanx Blackie, If it wasn't for me watching your channel, I don't know if I ever would of got one of my Fav's Combos. Thanx, Blackie and I Wish you a Safe Memorial Day.
A kukri is the most awesome videos invented by the minds of man. In the future I hope they come out with a lightsaber version! :) I own the Gurka kukri (the real one) It's awesome. You don't need a saw. It works as a planer. it splits wood. It's the only knife you bring besides your skinning knife in your multie tool. The kukri is perfection.
You have a Masters Degree in common sense my friend! Love this series watching it again!
Glad you enjoy it!
I was actually doing some study between kukri vs duku chandong. Both are awesome and gets the job done. The technical review from you is detailed sir.i've subscribed to your channel .
One of the greatest blades ever, got mine from a Gurka I was serving with too many years ago to say, good video my friend.
The blood drip garbage is just one of many mythical explanation from people who don't know what it is. Blackie's explanation here is the most accurate you will find.
Thanx Blackie, that's why I had the smaller Khukuri made, and I agree about the larger Khukuri, that it will get the job done faster, you do know your stuff, Happy Holiday's.
Excellent overview. Thanks, Blackie!
Much appreciated!
I have loved kukris since I bought my first one when I was a 16 year old kid. Thank you for the informational film series please keep it up.
@ kevin Daniel..from tip to hilt the blade measures 10 1/2 inches thanks for the comment..safe journeys
Glad to see someone get the purpose of the cho/kaura/kardi/karda correct.
The stuff about it being a blood drip-off device is nonsense. These notches exist on the majority of genuine kukhuris, and BMI military kukris. They are thus found on the majority of these blades, this majority exist as tools rather than weapons, and thus do not need any blood-clearance device.
Similarly, even where the kukri is intended as a weapon the claim of a blood-drip off point is fallacious nonsense.
Real CQB with any blade , and especially a full on kukri recurve style weapon would include en masses back-cuts where you club with the spine, reverse grip hammer smashes , and regular pummelling hammer-strikes with the pommel.
This means , in real world use , blood and any and all body fluids and gloops , go everywhere . It gets all over the blade, handle , and hand.
the neat assumption of blood politely running down the sharp edge is a mistake made in dancing classes in martial arts dojos.
the cho (etc) is a shock absorber , pure and simple . It is formed in manners that reflect a variety of spiritual symbology, but it is , in practical terms exacftly the shock absorber the 'author' describes.
One thing I would correct the 'author' on... a large kuri is not an axe... The axe is a badly designed kukri... :D
BTW... Sirupate... was what you wee looking for for the longer thinner blade. named after a leaf form found in Nepal ... and I believe pronounced 'siroopatteee' .
DustyPilgrim1 "The axe is a badly designed kukri... :D" hehe true.
Don't be mistaken, the axe is the older tool. An axe is an axe and it will absolutely out-chop any khukuri of the same quality. It still carves and cuts veggies at the end of the day. We all have our prefered tool, no need to shit on the other.
Extremely informative. Best kukri videos on youtube. Thank you
Hey, great video. I just wanted to put my 2 cents in regarding the little notch near the handle of the kukri at the base of the blade. The gurkhas had the notch placed there so that the blood of the enemy wouldn't flow to the handle. If you look at the notch, it's designed so that the blood would drip off. Just a cool, fun fact.
Check antique butcher knives and cleavers of this shape. Ridges and different thickness works great for the durability of the spot where the "cho" or notch is placed. This is not a breaking point. Probably has some more simple and utility purpose, like holding a string tied on the spot for temporary hand guard or other reason, as well as for easier sharpening purposes like on many blades.
Blackie excellent intro! I used an HI M43 Kukri as my primary blade over a several year survival living ordeal. It is an even better performer than the AngKhola's.
The 12" AngKhola such as the small kuk you show is IMHO the most underrated survival knife out there.
The M43 as the Chiruwas AngKhola is full tang so no chance of tang failure.
Next paycheck I'm going to get a 10" blade British Army Service kukri. Finally found a european retailer!! Probably not Himalayan Imports. But it is Nepalese, made from a truckspring and the provided pictures and the customer reviews are good. Worth the wager in my opinion.
sounds good..good luck with it..safe journeys
I got my 1st and 2nd Khukuris from Himalayian Imports, my 1st Khukuri was the M43, blk buffalo horn slab's on a full tang, 28"+ and about a 1/2" thick 5160 deferentially tempered, love at first sight.
Say Heah Blackie, WoW, I remember when you first came out with this video. In fact it was a inspiration for me to get into Lhukuris and Kukuri.I have (2)Lhuris, Both are the M-43 by H.I. In fact Uncle Bill (R.I.P.) made both for me, The larger one is with a Black Buffalo Horn and the smaller one he made in some White Bone, Both are beautiful and yet very functional, my smaller one (10" X 7m/m thick) is lite enough to carry easier because its lighter. But then C.S. came out with a Kukuri Plus in O1 (not a machete) and 5/16" thick I teamed up with my SM3 Master Hunter, A lovely piece of kit. I really like using this set, Your right, I just add a Saw to this combo and I can accomplish most everything I want to do considering its not freezing weather. Because you need a Axe to process alot of firewwod to stay warm, But you can get by until your rescued with this set in a survival situation. Oh, I also have a C.S. Rajah 1, its a Pocket Kukuri, its 6" blade Folder made out of a 6061 Aluminum single billet. (CNC). Yeah, Its a serious pocket knife. I also have a BK-31 on the way, Its also a Kukuri and not a Khukuri, but nor a machete although it's only a 3/16" thick, But the size, shape its a very formidable chopper. Boy, Blackie, this was a fast six years, Thanx You for all the valuable information I learned from you. Thanx You.,,.
yea its about time i revisited the kukri field guide idea
You did good Blackie, Thanx You.,,.
Best series review and info out there on this I've seen.
I truly appreciate your Video's, in just a short time I learned so much, Thanx, but I would like to share this with you, I buy blades by steel type, my Khukuris are 5160 leaf spring steel, good stuff, I just bought a Golok by Bark River, in the A 1 steel, Blacked let me tell you, its a great chopper, the reason I got it is, I'm so impressed with my Bravo 1, I had to get the Golok, I wish you could try it. Jason at DLT Trading gave me great deals on both of them. Excellent steel that A 2 is.
I'm glad to see another Kukri fan out there. I love all of my Kukri's, all of mine are not imported from Nepal there either American made or made in Japan or China but there all good blades. None of them are the cheap stuff.
Say Heah Blackie, Everytime I use one of my Khukuris or Kukuri, I think of you. Well this week I'm practicing with my O. K. C. Gen2 SP-53 what a excellent chopper, I teamed it with my Ranger T. F. I, Aces. ,, .
@blackoracle69 the notch is to allow blood to run off the blade to stop it getting on the grip and it sliding off your hand whilst in battle, it also acts as a segregated edge at such, if your going to slaughter a cow for example it acts as a guide
thank you all for your comments i wii post part 2 in the kukri series as soon as possible till then safe journeys
@ paulie4x1 ..no problem..thanks for the comment
the bird finger .... hahahaha
i use the jungle size most..its the right size for me thanks for all the comments guys..../safe journeys
I love my Kukri blades 😅
@ foolishgibberish..the big angkola and a few others were given as gifts or traded off..the big ang went to a very large young man headed to afganistan...he returned from that tour with several stories of how it came in handy..thanks for the comments..safe journeys
I to am a big fan of the Kukri design.
Hi Blackie. You once mentioned a Kukri that broke on you on it's 1st use. I just had a similar problem. My new Kukri has the rat tail going through the handle. On it's 1st use I was chopping into a pine branch and the small brass cap at the tip of the handle came off followed by the larger brass cap attached to the bone handle itself. I remember seeing a couple in this condition with the guys in the military. Common problem maybe. Will be sending back to the supplier in exchange for a full tang.
I don't know what that cutout is but that's not a relief cut because from an engineering standpoint that doesn't make any sense. It would work as slight shock absorber to possibly save your hands but removing a chunk of metal will actually decrease the overall durability, even if the steel is differentially hardened. If the edge is that brittle to begin with, chunks would just chip out in other areas when you use it.
The information is wrong about the notch near the handle. The w shaped notch is for the blood to drip down fast to the ground before reaching the handle.
The shape of the Khukuri is designed to be effective in chopping heads and limbs in the battle. When Gorkhas chop off head, they hit the enemy in the neck so precisely that the narrow part (just above the w shaped notch) touches first so that it also slices through the enemy's neck.
Great video thanks for the info, was not aware of the functionality of the cho notch as a shock absorber
I choped hundreds of coconuts in India with a Nepalese Kukri .
I don't think i've would have been to do the same with a Ka-Bar ..
?!!?!?!? Dude you just cracked my mind from overfilling.... thanks!!!!
the relief cut is also there for combat aspects aswell. when fighting with the kukri obviously it gets covered in blood and the relief cut helps stop the blood from reaching the handle so you can keep a secure grip and have it not slip and slide.
that was an educated comment, and you are 100% correct.
That channel will direct the blood towards your index finger as well, so you can choke up on your grip, extend your finger and flick blood in an opponents eyes (you would need it to be coated in a lot of blood, and a tiller/blood well leading towards the relief). But what the uploader said made perfect sense.
... well not really Mr.Sandydown, the groove thats cut would misdirect the blood, it would drip off because when fighting with knives one would not hold the knife completely vertical
. normally it would be at an angle, blade facing the opponent and the blade leaning to one side with your other hand up to protect the neck and other vital areas incase of a break through the defenses.(then again im not certain who taught you your knife fighting technique, but thats how i was taught and similar to how the Gurkha's train).
so in such a case where you would get in to a fighting stance with your knife that may resemble this in almost any way, shape or form the it would drip off easily.
At about 3:40 min into the video he talks about the groove...if you watch the video.
... i watched the video, i was adding onto what he had already said... the relief cut is allowed to serve more than one purpose.
re: CS "Kukri shaped machete" exactly.
re: axe "when you pick one of these up that's what you should be thinking" best safety advice for them!
re: "cho", finally a proper explanation.
Himalayan Imports for sure makes the best khukuri for the money! I've not had a bad blade from them yet.
The edge at the bottom of the kukhri is shaped like that so that the blood does not drip down to your hand and loosen the grip.
One thing, and you may very well be right about what those little chips out of the blade do for the metal, I've heard that it's so blood doesn't run onto the handle & make the grip slippery. Maybe it's something that was designed for one thing, but it worked out for the functionality of it. Great videos (had a problem drawing them, myself- your video cleared up that question; thanks). Maybe you could do some videos of you doing various tasks & campwork with the kukri?
I didnt even know they made the tiny kukri..that would fit an old womans hand and cutting needs..maybe even self defense in close quarters..thank you!!!
search on ebay for jungle kukri..that should take you to it
BLACKIE THOMAS. Thank you sir..
What's the blade length on the smaller jungle belt kukri? Thanks for the great review and info. 👍
Always educational videos Blackie, thanks!!
But I found it a bit heavy to carry all day long, so I asked Yangdu kf she would order me a smaller M43 since I love the W.W.2 design, she told me any configuration is possible since they are hand made, she has real good Kamis working for her, do I ordered a 10th" blade, 15.5" OAL, about 7.5m/m, what a beauty, also it has a white horn handle, light but what tank, my smaller knives now go around my neck, my new Bushcraft/survival Khukuri is on my belt, if I need my Transforms Bruks,
I love Kuks...great vid. I think I'm going to grab one from HI as my next blade purchase....just don't tell my girlfriend. She'll say "Why do you need a big knife like that??" and I'll say "Go watch ol Blackie's kuk video and you'll understand".
Crazy to think you did this series almost a decade ago!!!
Well done man, i have the cold steel kukri machete and love mine as well. Tho i just got a schrade new design kukri, and was just getting some info on them. I wanted to see your take on them so thanks.
Great Video, Now onto number 2! Thanks!
VERY helpful, thank you.
Glad it was helpful!
@cammie500 i beleve that is right..i got mine from a search on ebay for jungle kukri..thanks for the comment safe journeys
Hi, Love your videos. The Kurri is Something I've been looking for a while but I'm not sure if I wanted to have one. You convinced me with your Series to try one out in the field. can you tell me the blade size of the officers model and the one that you use for your every day chopper. Thanks for your time to make these videos.
It's nothing to do with chopping heads. It's an everyday utility blade used around the house for many tasks, comes in many shapes and sizes for different specific tasks. The ceremonial decapitation one is much longer then a standard Kukri.
@meddice..sorry to hear that..thats why i recomend a good full power testing of any new kit beofre taking it to the field..if its gonna fail better to do so at home than miles from no where ..good luck with you khukri...safe journeys
You're an excellent teacher.
@Shardalon the size of that one is 12 inch overal..with a7 1/2/ inch blade..for me it is the perfect size to a be a kukri knife..that handles small chopping..but is still small enough for use in food prep and basic camp chores..i got it off ebay search for jungle kukri you might find it ...safe journeys
Like your out look on the khukuri. However, if you like the ones you have I suggest you try the 3 Chirra ( the Beast), from khukuri house.
That notch in the blade near the handle is not for flexing is a blood groove so the blood does not drip into the handle so you will lose grip
You are a dipshit spouting misinformation!!!
@ woods vz....one of the cold steel kukri machetes would be 25 bucks or so..very good one to start with..safe journeys
Good stuff
I've heard that the notch was also used to drip blood off the blade when fighting so it wouldn't make the user's hand slippery. Also I've heard it's supposed to look like a cow's foot since cows are sacred in Hindu culture. Your explanation makes more sense then anything else i've heard though.
Blood would be able to go down the sides and spine to the handle
Very good. I don't know much about them other than what I've seen on the web and youtube. They may be the best looking knife out there and I say that being a fan of the Bowie style knife all my life. ( I'm from Texas.) Would like to see more about pricing in you next vid. I noticed Cold Steel had 2 nice ones in their catalog and there was a couple hundred dollars difference and they seemed very very similar in size. They may have had different type steel. I don't remember.
Good stuff Boss K man myself all you posted is good.let's see how many llearn
'hawks
Say Heah Blackie,
I come to you for advice, because I know you know your Khukuris, in your opinion what would you consider to be a good all around size for a Khukuri ? and what is your favorite size Khukuri ? and which Khukuri do you use the most when your in the out of door's ?
Nice video. Kukri's have been made for a long time but only used in Nepal. The latin machete has been used for many years in the entire south and middle America. Add the bolo, parang, golok, barong, etc to it and you have way more use in the world than just the Nepal area.
I'm not saying a kukri is not good. On the contrary. I'm just saying if it was that great of a design it would have been adopted by many tribes all over the world.
There's noting you can do with a kukri style machete that you can't do with a 12 inch Tramontina latin machete that will cost some 10 dollars (17 with sheath).
There's nothing you can do with a medium size kukri that you can't do with a large bowie, etc.
Talking about sheaths. The kukri's have the worst sheaths. They also are kinda heavy and front heavy. That makes working with a kukri fatigue you more most of all when cutting.
I do agree that a large blade or machete is in most cases a way better and safer option than an ax, unless you are homesteading or building a log house, but in those cases I would prefer a chain saw.
Your Kukri challenge wouldn't be extremely difficult if you could use the small Karda knife that comes with the kukris. Now if I couldn't use that it'd be rough.
cool facts. i learned a thing or two about kukris
@paulie4x1..of those choices i would take the 15 for the greater chopping ability..the shorter is a better belt carry ..but the larger gets the work done with less effort..safe journeys
I have one from ww1 (issued to artie and mgs to clear the bushes in front of their gun) the scabbard is covered by what looks like blood - five notches in the handle - so strange for a ww1 US made weapon.
Excellent! Very informative,thanks.
The 1year Khukuri-challange would not be that hard if the models made for export had a decent Karda, i.e. the companion knife that comes with the Khukuri. On the domestic Khukuris they are proper utility knives with up to 3" - 4" blades, not the flimsy toys that you normally get in the West.
Thanks for the great videos on the kukri. Maybe this is mentioned somewhere in the videos or someone else has asked and I missed it, but what is the blade length of larger of the two kukris that you feature in these videos?
Just bought the Kabar kukri machete. Have not had the opportunity to try it out yet. What do you think about it?
@trevor6744,,it isa officers model..i got it from e-bay do a search for mini jungle knife..you should find it..safe journeys
Fantastic vid.
Some of the modern repos are almost too thick. Some experts say they are more crowbar than knife. The edge is very hard and hard to sharpen. I have a M1937 Indian Army Gurkha Kukri (not the United Cutlery/Atlanta Cutlery cheap one). Mine was sold by SARCO. I cold blued the blade to prevent corrosion and reshaped the handle to fit my hand perfectly. It is long and thinner. It could not be issue as the design is massive.
the best rule i know..use what works for you..i have had many kukris..i had a dozen of all makes and sizes at one time..but i keep coming back to my old one it suits me the best
@@BLACKIETHOMAS I hear you. Love mine.
@mrnola31..it has a overall from tip to pommel of 12 inches
I must put my kukri in a video.. (Well I have two, one is original) it is very old and is in original condition needing a polish. I would love to know more about it.
The nock also acts as blade catch in battle, or so I'm told.
Very informative video, I just ordered a condor heavy duty kukri, I cant afford the Himalayan Imports ones, although I sure wish I could!