Nepalese Pra-swords

Jim McDougall · 30th September 2007, 06:02 AM

This is a most interesting example of 18th century kora, especially with the unusual variant blade form. By the latter 18th century the preferred Gorkhali weapon was the kukri, and it seems that the kora had been for the most part reserved for ceremonial or sacrificial use. While that may well be the case, it seems that many of the kora I have seen are much like this in simplicity, suggesting fighting rather than ceremonial use. Possibly the influence of the so called spear point blade of cavalry sabres is seen on this example, further emphasizing the probability of combat use, despite the lack of weighted end.

It seems generally accepted that both the kukri and the kora share thier probable ancestry from the kopis, and although the direct progression is unclear, they both seem to have existed concurrently. The heavier kukri with its dual purpose attributes both in utility and combat seems to have prevailed in favor, especially as the famed Gurkha regiments were formed in the early 19th century.

30th September 2007, 06:02 AM	#5
Jim McDougall Arms Historian Join Date: Dec 2004 Location: Route 66 Posts: 9,868	This is a most interesting example of 18th century kora, especially with the unusual variant blade form. By the latter 18th century the preferred Gorkhali weapon was the kukri, and it seems that the kora had been for the most part reserved for ceremonial or sacrificial use. While that may well be the case, it seems that many of the kora I have seen are much like this in simplicity, suggesting fighting rather than ceremonial use. Possibly the influence of the so called spear point blade of cavalry sabres is seen on this example, further emphasizing the probability of combat use, despite the lack of weighted end. It seems generally accepted that both the kukri and the kora share thier probable ancestry from the kopis, and although the direct progression is unclear, they both seem to have existed concurrently. The heavier kukri with its dual purpose attributes both in utility and combat seems to have prevailed in favor, especially as the famed Gurkha regiments were formed in the early 19th century.