The kukri is one of the most iconic fighting knives in military history, forever associated with the legendary Gurkha soldiers who served with the British Army. Feared and respected in equal measure, the Gurkhas developed a formidable reputation for courage and close-quarters fighting during both World Wars. Their traditional kukri knife was not only a weapon but an essential field tool, carried daily and relied upon for everything from combat to camp duties.

This is an original World War II period Gurkha kukri, a strong and honest example showing clear wartime character and service wear.

Blade

The blade remains in good overall condition with honest age-related wear and evidence of sharpening, likely carried out during its period of service. It retains its distinctive forward-curving kukri profile and still finishes into a good, sharp point.

At the base of the blade is the traditional cho notch. This feature is characteristic of kukri blades and serves both practical and symbolic purposes. Functionally it helps prevent blood, sap, or other fluids from running down onto the grip, reducing the risk of the handle becoming slippery in use.

The blade is stamped “A.W.42.” The 42 clearly denotes the wartime year 1942, placing this kukri firmly within the period of the Second World War.

Hilt & Grips

The kukri is fitted with attractive wooden grips secured by the original two brass rivets. The wood shows some light age-related wear and minor handling marks but remains very presentable overall.

The grip flares outward toward the pommel, a design that provides a secure and comfortable hold during use. This flared pommel profile is typical of kukri construction.

Scabbard

The kukri is housed in its original scabbard, which has been covered in wartime canvas. Canvas-covered examples are encountered less frequently than the more typical leather scabbards, making this a particularly interesting variation.

The canvas shows some honest age-related staining and wear consistent with service use, but the stitching remains tight and secure. The scabbard retains its brass chape at the tip, which remains in excellent condition.

Importantly, the blade sits firmly and correctly within the scabbard, confirming that the two have remained together as a matching pair.

Overall

A genuine and well-preserved WWII Gurkha kukri dated 1942, showing honest service wear while retaining excellent character. With its attractive wooden grips, clear wartime date stamp, and original canvas-covered scabbard, this is a desirable example of one of the most recognisable military fighting knives of the Second World War.

Historical Note

Gurkha soldiers from Nepal have served in the British Army since the early nineteenth century and have earned a worldwide reputation for bravery, discipline, and battlefield skill. During the Second World War, Gurkha regiments fought in numerous theatres including North Africa, Italy, and the jungles of Burma.

The kukri was an essential part of the Gurkha soldier’s equipment and a symbol of their identity. Its distinctive forward-curving blade made it equally effective as a fighting weapon and a practical field tool. Over time the kukri became closely associated with the fearsome reputation of the Gurkhas, whose courage and loyalty in battle earned them deep respect throughout the British Army.

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