Most Nepalese are devoted Hindus. They have been practicing Hinduism since generations and ritual beliefs still go strong even today. Similarly it would be fair to say that the khukuri has also been contributing to all Nepalese to performing some of the religious act of Hinduism. One of the rituals and also traditions of Nepalese has a religious ceremony of beheading domestic animals as an offering to the goddess “Durgamata” during the main Nepalese festival, the “Dashain”. This is where the 18” khukuri chiefly comes into play, where it reveals its true identity, where it demands a kill and respect as a true slaughter-house.

18” Aluminum is identical to 18” Wooden in shape and size but crafted in a different type of handle. The metallic form of handle “Aluminum” that is stronger, distinct and attractive makes this kukri a perfect showpiece yet a cutting workhorse and therefore the name. The handle is made from aluminum and may be used for sacrificial purpose in ceremonies. It is a customary in Nepal that families celebrate the festival by purchasing domestic animals from locals and sacrificing it at home or mostly at temples as an offering to the goddess “Durgamata”. The ceremony is performed after going through all the rituals and the beheading must be done in one clean stroke otherwise it is believed to bring ill fortune. Although 18” Aluminum is not brought to the practice much it can still be used on someone’s preference. The best part of the Aluminum handle is that unlike the traditional handles (Horn and Wooden) it does not dry up (shrink). The outside temperature and ambient will have very little impact on the handle. As well the metallic surface protects the handle from getting scratches and bruises. All the making and building of the knife is done by hand using only conventional domestic tools. Aluminum is melted, poured in a prepared block then tang is fixed (inserted) skillfully and left to dry. It is also the very metal used for the handle that contributes to the cost and strength to the kukri. It takes three men a complete day to finish this kukri. This aluminum version of 18” kukri can be used and displayed at the same time.

18” Aluminum is more a displayable item because of its elegant aluminum handle yet a hardcore utility knife because of the very reason.