Recently acquired Kukri.

[sirupate]

Originally Posted by mrcjgscott

I think one can be as certain as one can be that the kukri is Nepalese in origin, rather than Indian. What makes you think it isn't?

In regards to the typology of kukri that is rather a broad subject, again, probably best discussed elsewhere, so as not to clutter up this thread.

However, as no real terms exist in Nepal to distinguish between kukri types, in order to separate various design features and further our knowledge, such "labels" must be employed.

I believe it was Bill Martino who introduced the term "Hanshee", which was a corruption of the word "hansiya", a term used for a sickle like tool. It may be wrong, but it is still a term known and used by collectors, and as such, who am I to change it?

As "lambendh" literally translates as "long handle" it certainly makes the most sense. Different people use different terms, and in absence of any labels from the country of origin, we westerners with an interest in such things must do the best we can.

Kind regards,

Chris

Hi Chris,
Then the GM and the IWM must have the same picture, and we will have to agree to disagree, Gurkhas were not allowed to personalise issued kukri btw.
I don't think you can be certain at all, unless there is provenance with the kukri to say it was made in Nepal.
I believe you are right about Bill Martino coming up with the term Hanshee and JP adopting the term from Bill Martino.
Personally I see no need to label kukri, which the Nepalese don't have a name for, but each to their own.
All the best Simon

[mrcjgscott]

Originally Posted by sirupate

Hi Chris,
Then the GM and the IWM must have the same picture, and we will have to agree to disagree,

We certainly will, I am sure everybody here can make their own minds up.

Originally Posted by sirupate

Gurkhas were not allowed to personalise issued kukri btw.

Again, I don't remember suggesting they were, but without examining those 96,000 kukri you mentioned, I doubt you would be able to prove that.

Originally Posted by sirupate

I don't think you can be certain at all, unless there is provenance with the kukri to say it was made in Nepal.

Well, one can be as certain as one can be, in regards to style, form, construction and the experience of handling several hundred.

Like everybody else, I have been known to be wrong in the past, and am happy to be proved so, if it means we all come out learning a little more because of it. But in order for that to happen, somebody would need to say why they believe it is not Nepalese.

Originally Posted by sirupate

Personally I see no need to label kukri, which the Nepalese don't have a name for, but each to their own.

If there were Nepalese terms I would use them, I do where they are available. But where there are none, in order to produce a working lexicon to further our knowledge and discussion, such terms are essential.

Chhuri, chakku, and karda are all Nepali words for knife. Yet Karda is the one we associate with the companion knife housed in the back of the scabbard.

So long as such terms are seen for what they are, there is nothing to fear, and everything to gain.

Kind regards,

Chris

[sirupate]

Hi Chris,
Chris; 'Perhaps senior NCO's were permitted the distinction of a "dress" scabbard whilst on parade?'
Me; I think Jonathan originally used the word personalised, but either way personalised or dress scabbards, no, that would not have been allowed in the Gurkhas or in the British army strictly against regs.
The pipers were sometimes bought kothimora kukri by the CO to wear, and Mess orderlies were occasionally also given kothimora kukri to wear, as in the photo of the mess orderlies in the 10th GR in 1948 in Kuala Lumpur, who by the way were rifleman on rotation from rifle companies (obviously the mess cooks, were a different affair).
Chris; Well, one can be as certain as one can be, in regards to style, form, construction and the experience of handling several hundred.
Me; no one can tell from a picture were a kukri was made, unless the picture came with relevant info or markings on the kukri clearly showing where it was made.
All the best Simon

[mrcjgscott]

Originally Posted by sirupate

I think Jonathan originally used the word personalised, but either way personalised or dress scabbards, no, that would not have been allowed in the Gurkhas or in the British army strictly against regs.

I am not sure what Jonathan has to do with this?

Perhaps you would like to share the regulations you mention here for us to see?

I don't see why a possible regimental tradition in the Third Gurkha Rifles would be so difficult for you to believe?

I find it much harder to believe that such decorated scabbards would be taken on active service. The example on David's kukri is of tourist grade, and would not have lasted a month of field use.

Originally Posted by sirupate

The pipers were sometimes bought kothimora kukri by the CO to wear, and Mess orderlies were occasionally also given kothimora kukri to wear, as in the photo of the mess orderlies in the 10th GR in 1948 in Kuala Lumpur, who by the way were rifleman on rotation from rifle companies (obviously the mess cooks, were a different affair).

I am not really sure what bearing this has on David's kukri?

Originally Posted by sirupate

Me; no one can tell from a picture were a kukri was made, unless the picture came with relevant info or markings on the kukri clearly showing where it was made.

Absolute nonsense. Whilst there is nothing better than holding an object in your hand to evaluate it, a surprising amount can be learned from pictures. One just has to know what to look for and where to look for it.

Infact, this whole forum is based on that very fact!!

As you know, I can tell a (U) J.D. Pensioner and Sons kukri from just a photograph.

[Ian]

There is something about kukris that seems to bring out very heated debate.

Chris and Simon, it is apparent that you have very different ideas; I think you have both expressed them articulately, and neither of you want to concede on certain points. Even a casual reader of these posts will understand what you both strongly believe.

Your cases have been made. Persisting with the present argument will necessitate disciplinary action. Let's move on please.

Ian.

[mrcjgscott]

Hello Ian,

I sometimes allow passion for my subject to eclipse my manners, and I apologise if that is the case here.

Apologies also to David for hijacking your thread, I hope it doesn't put you off finding kukri number three.

Kind regards,

Chris

[sirupate]

I do tend to defend my corner about kukri Ian, it is difficult for people to concede when they have opposing views, thank you for your intervention.