I agree with everyone that the hilt was changed at some time after the khukuri was originally made. I also agree that the workmanship of the hilt is less than the original. The only thing I don't see, is any evidence of electric welding, either arc, mig, or tig. I suspect it was done by a metalworker in India, Nepal, or a similar area. The cylindrical part of the hilt does seem to be a piece of manufactured tubing of some sort. I can't tell if the seam is brazed or not welded at all, but it doesn't look electric welded.
It's a shame.
Steve
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