Kukri

The kukri (English: /ˈkʊkri/) or khukuri (Nepali: खुकुरी, pronounced [kʰukuri]) is a type of short sword with a distinct recurve in its blade that originated in the Indian subcontinent. It serves multiple purposes as a melee weapon and also as a regular cutting tool throughout most of South Asia. The kukri, khukri, and kukkri spellings are of Indian English origin, with the original Nepalese English spelling being khukuri.

The original spelling and meaning can only be instated by the word khukuri. Kukri is the misspelled word. The khukuri is the national weapon of Nepal, traditionally serving the role of a basic utility knife for the Nepali-speaking Gurkhas, and consequently is a characteristic weapon of the Nepali Army.

There are many myths surrounding the khukuri since its earliest recorded use in the 7th century—most notably a traditional custom that the blade must draw blood before being sheathed, owing to its sole purpose as a fighting weapon.

In addition to its use in combat, the khukuri is also used for a variety of other purposes. It is used by farmers and laborers for cutting crops and clearing brush, and by hunters for skinning and cleaning game. It is also used as a tool for cooking, woodworking, and even as a ceremonial object in some Nepalese religious traditions.