How to Use a Khukri Knife ?

How to Draw Out a Khukuri

Khukuri is a friendly weapon that should always be kept in its case due to its sharp edge. To draw it out safely:

• Grip the top part of the case with one hand.

• Use your other hand to grip the handle firmly.

• Pull the handle smoothly to remove the blade.
  After use, return the khukuri to its case by:

• Gripping the top of the case.

• Inserting the tip slowly into the case opening.

• Giving a gentle push to the handle until fully seated.

The Build of the Knife

Traditional khukuri crafting involves skilled blacksmithing:

• Iron is heated until red-hot in coal fires.

• The blacksmith uses tongs to hold the iron and a chisel to mark the basic khukuri shape.

• A helper hammers the chisel to create deep outline marks.

• The rough shape is separated by pouring water on the mark and hammering.

• The blade is reheated and hammered to perfect its shape, edges, and tang (which connects to the handle).

• After cooling, the blade is ground to create a sharp edge and distinctive notch.

• The handle (buffalo horn or wood) is attached using adhesive when the tang is red-hot.

• Some feature brass fixtures, particularly British Gurkha models.

• The final grinding reveals the steel-colored blade that can last over 150 years.

How to Handle Your Khukuri

The khukuri is designed for slicing and cutting, not striking people. Proper handling:

• Hold like an axe handle with one hand.

• When cutting wood, tilt the blade to create an angle for efficient cutting.

• Includes two small knives (sharpeners) without sharp edges.

• To sharpen: place the tip on the ground while holding the handle, and sharpen like a knife on a stone.

How to Slice

Khukuri is versatile for various cutting tasks:

• Used by villagers and butchers to cut goats and pigs.

• Effectively cuts through bones in 4-5 strikes (ribs, legs, heads).

• Suitable for slicing solid meat pieces at home.

• The top edge makes deep cuts more effectively than other tools.

• Butchers use it for precise cuts on bellies and internal organs.

• Nepalese typically use regular knives for vegetables and peeling.

What to Protect Against

Khukuri requires protection against rust:

• Iron construction makes it prone to rust if stored long-term in its case due to moisture.

• Prevent rust by wiping with a cloth before storage and using occasionally.

• Nepalese use sandpaper or steel wool to remove rust, but these can scratch the blade.

• Grinding is the preferred alternative to remove rust without scratches.

• Apply oils (mustard, soybean, sunflower) after cleaning to protect the blade.

How to Maintain for a Long Time

Long-term maintenance observations from village use:

• People often use khukuri without cases but should store properly.

• Sharpen when cutting performance declines.

• Leather outer cases withstand weather, but wooden inner liners can expand in humidity.

• If the case becomes loose from expansion, sun exposure can help contract it.

• Remember that iron expands and contracts with temperature changes.

How to Take Care of It

Handle repair for cracked handles:

• Use a small sharp knife to widen the crack slightly.

• Mix sawdust with super glue to create a paste.

• Fill the crack with the paste and level with an iron rod.

• Finish with a soft cloth for a smooth appearance.

The Khukuri Stand

A khukuri stand is essential for display and collection:

• Holds the knife erect for visual appeal.

• Available in various styles to showcase your blade.

Bonus Preservation Tip

To prevent khukuri from sticking in its case after long storage:

• Apply oil to both sides of the blade.

• Wrap in a cloth.

• Store in an air-tight plastic bag.

This guidance draws from generations of Nepalese experience with khukuri use and maintenance, ensuring your blade remains functional and preserved for years.