This is not a standard army issue khukuri but a popular Gurkha knife carried by Gurkha Soldiers for training, exercise and combat. The knife has been closely associated with the Gurkhas since it was first picked up in around 1950s, often bought from army store called “PRI shop”. The need for a rough utility knife to perform in the active army service (lower rank) provoked the demand of the Jungle and soon it was found widely in use by Gurkhas for just about any activities that involved cutting, clearing and cleaning. The very shape, size and features of the Jungle served the objectives of jungle warfare and thus was categorized as the “Jungle Kukri” to truly meet its identity.

British Gurkhas can make their own pick when it comes to a junglee (utility) khukuri. One may go for a shorter or longer, heavier or lighter, or even thinner or broader but KHHI’s deep research point to the fact that after the formation of the “Brigade of Gurkhas” by British in 1948 army gear shops were operated by army, sometimes individuals that commonly sold the standard army issue version (“Sarkhari Khukuri” as called by Gurkhas) but in unpolished format intended for rough use required by the army. Since the standard issue khukuri had to be well looked after; very clean and shinny, Gurkhas opted for another knife that was ideally filled in by the khukuri from the army shop which Gurkhas later named it as “Jungle”. This trend still continues to date but now with the changing time and fashion modern Gurkhas even go for other improvised versions.

Since the “Jungle” was discovered it has faced numerous official trainings, exercises, operations and even combats but sadly it deeds have hardly been documented or recognized.  It is our belief that the development of modern more effective army gears overshadowed the importance and usage of the kukri.

It is a totally unpolished full-size khukuri identical to Service no.1. Since it is designed for rough use finishing (shining) is not done either in the blade or handle. This also comes as an advantage to the khukuri as the total unpolished format enhances the cutting ability and durability of the blade as losing of temper is prevent by avoiding the long machinery process undertaken to polish a blade.  The unpolished horn handle of the Jungle provides better grip and easier handling too. Some Jungles are also camouflaged by green cotton cloth or similar materials by soldiers for warfare to ensemble with their uniform and not to attract any unwanted attention. Jungle has a basic black colored buffalo hide leather scabbard with twin belt loop frog as seen in the picture. Brass fixtures are fitted to complete (make) the khukuri.

Jungle because of its typical look, special feature and very close association with the legendary Gurkhas is one of the best sellers of all times. It is an all-out all-purpose utility knife that carries the history, and also has all characters of an assault knife.