Inter-war Officers Vintage Khukuri

Inter-war Officers Vintage Khukuri

Originally sold as a private purchase or gift piece for mid-level to senior British Indian officers, this khukuri harkens back to the time prior to the end of the British Raj in India (1920-1935). This is a time when a dignified style/status was something expected and meant for so-called high ranking British Indian officers only. Believed to have been made in Dehradun, India in a standard facility of that time, the distinct Crescent stamp in the blade denotes the standard British officers’ rank. This khukuri showcases the highest level of skills of the craftsmen. It is very rare to have chirra/fuller during that time so the maker certainly wanted to do something different and make it special. The same effort can also be seen in the handle which is pleasantly artistic. Although targeted for display purpose or as a gift it is definitely a useable blade since it’s so well made keeping all attributes of a hardcore battle knife in mind.

This 'Vintage Khukuri' is a joint venture between Michael Laidlow and KHHI Nepal. Here the sole purpose is to reproduce the exact version so that the beauty and essence of the original kukri is not limited to one person (owner) but for the whole mass to enjoy and take pride in it. This khukuri certainly plays an important role in the history and development of the modern khukuri we know today. This accurate reproduction of an original piece from the period is beautifully detailed with polished buffalo horn handle, banded with engraved brass rings and butt cap, the crescent stamp of the master craftsman and perfectly placed chirra (fullers) along the blade to add to the elegance and incredible lightweight of the blade. The spectacular and unique work on the khukuri appeals to any observer. Moreover, the sheath is beautifully decorated by hand-carved brass chape in the tip/front section. Likewise, the artistically prepared brass plate mounted on the frog gives a classic and stunning look to the whole look and status of the khukuri. This vintage khukuri is a high-end product in every way and form. A must-have for the discerning/serious kukri collectors. 

Original piece owner:
Michael Laidlow is a collector and student of “Vintage & Antique Military Khukuri”, that are both beautiful, unique, and are of historical significance; as well as innovative, modern khukuri designs. Grandson of a Canadian WW1 infantryman, his interest in khukuri grew from studying WW1 and the Gurkha soldiers that fought so bravely alongside their British Commonwealth Allies. Michael lives in Ontario Canada and is survived by his wife. He is a full-time knife enthusiast and collector. We feel very proud to be associated with him through this special kukri. Thank you for this great opportunity.

Some of the major specifications of the knife

HC 5160 hand made/forged
Overall Length:16 inches
Blade: 12" approx
Handle: about 4.25" Horn, gentle inward curved
Thickness/Spine: 7/8 mm approx. around bolster (distal taper)
widest = 54 mm approx.
narrowest = 28 mm approx.
bolster = 34 mm approx.
Weight =525 gms approx (v effective and balanced weight)
Mirror polished finishing
Decorated traditional black leather sheath with Vertical carriage frog

Materials / Features: Decorated traditional black leather sheath, Horn with carved brass binding handle, 3 x chirra (fuller) blade
Origin: KHHI, Kathmandu, Nepal (released on 20th DEC 2017)