Best Kukri Knives for 2022 (Reviews & Buyer’s Guide)

For an avid hunter, survivalist, or military member, the Kukri is a classic knife that you have no doubt used at some point in your life. There are hundreds of different options to choose from when picking the best Kukri, so it can be difficult to know where to start. A Kukri knife can be used for skinning animals, clearing the forest, as a pry bar, and of course as a survival tool. They were made famous by the Gurkas, yet are now attainable worldwide. Today we’re going to share with you our guide to the best Kukri knife options on the market, as well as what to look for when considering a Kukri for your next pocket knife.

 Best Kukri Knives to Buy in 2022

1 – CRKT KUK Fixed Blade Knife: Carbon Steel Knife with Full Tang

If you are looking for a modern knife that takes inspiration from the Gurkha Kukri knives, look no further than this CRKT KUK Fixed Blade Knife. Designed by Ryan Johnson, you’ll be in safe hands thanks to his attention to detail and experience producing various knives. This full tang Kukri takes inspiration from history and the cultural significance of authentic Gurkha Kukri knives, which is reflected in its design.

The knife is called KUK, which is shorthand for Kukri, and this recurved blade is a strong and durable option for your next purchase. This is one of the top-rated models on the market, thanks to its carbon steel blade which is finished off with black powder. The handle is constructed from nylon which is glass-reinforced and is comfortable yet functional. With your purchase, you’ll receive a sheath made from woven polyester, as well as a paracord for an alternative mode of carrying.

The blade’s length is 10.5 inches, and it’s 3.53 mm thick. It weighs 14.7 oz, so it’s a good lightweight option for carrying around all day long.

Pros

• Carbon steel blade with a black powder finish
• Inspired by genuine Gurkha knives, this Kukri has had much thought and care put into its design and construction
• Your purchase comes with a woven polyester sheath and a paracord
• The handle works well in wet and dry weather conditions

Cons

• For heavy duty labor, you may want to consider an alternative model, as the blade is reasonably thin on this knife

2 – BK-3034 Handmade Damascus Steel 15 Inches Damascus Steel Kukri Knife

This handmade Damascus steel Kukri knife is the perfect addition to your camping and hunting gear. This Kukri is made to have a traditional and authentic appearance, and would also be a fantastic gift for any knife collector in your life. A leather sheath is included with your purchase, which will protect your new Kukri from the elements and any potential damage.

You’ll notice that this Kukri has a unique appearance when compared to others on this list, thanks to the bone handle. The total length of this Kukri knife is 15 inches, with a 10-inch blade and 5-inch handle. It has a razor sharp blade which will retain this level of sharpness even after heavy use. One of this knife’s standout features is its twisted pattern, which makes it a fantastic display item for any home.

With good care, you’ll find this knife can last you for years to come and won’t rust. Make sure to oil or wax it after each use, and don’t let any water sit on it to avoid rusting. If you have any issues, their customer service team is available every day and will respond to you within 24 hours, which makes this a secure purchase.

Pros

• Unique design thanks to the bone handle and twisted pattern on the blade
• Features a razor sharp blade
• The customer service team will respond to you within 24 hours if you have any issues

Cons

• A 15 inch Kukri, which makes it better for use closer to home as opposed to carrying on your adventures

3 – Ka-Bar Combat Kukri Knife

With a blade length of 8.5 inches and an overall length of 13.3 inches, this Ka-Bar Kukri knife is one of the best Kukri knives. The blade is constructed from 1095 cro-van steel, meaning it has a 1095 high carbon blade which is epoxy powder-coated to finish. The overall appearance of these materials gives a non-reflective look to the black blade, which is ideal for when you don’t want to attract attention in the wilderness.

The handle material is Kraton G elastomer, which gives you a slip-resistant Kraton handle which is grippy and easy to hold onto in even the worst weather condition. For further protection, your purchase will come with a polyester sheath which is of a high quality.

This Ka-Bar Kukri is a lightweight model and is ideal for self defense. If you are going into the woods, it may not be the top option, and you may want to look for a heavier pocket knife. Users rate its great balance and weight, and the Kukri blade is incredibly thin for carrying around attached to your belt.

Pros

• This Ka-Bar Kukri blade is constructed from 1095 cro-van steel
• Slip-resistant Kraton handle
• Lightweight and an ideal option for self defense

Cons

• The blade may need sharpening regularly depending on how often you use your new Kukri machete
• The sheath is not the strongest option, and you may end up investing in another one

4 – GK&CO. Kukri House Authentic Gurkha Knife – 12″ Blade

For an authentic Kukri knife, consider this Kukri from GK&CO which is hand forged in Nepal. It’s made in a traditional manner and is the ideal self defense tool to add to your collection of knives. As you can see, your purchase will come with two additional smaller knives, which are ideal for skinning creatures and sharpening your Kukri.

This Kukri’s quality is second to none, due to the way it’s constructed and the materials used during the process. The blade itself is 12 inches long, which makes it one of the longest options on our best Kukri knife list. You’ll appreciate the handle of this Kukri which is made from dark rosewood and makes the overall length of this machete 17.5 inches. This carbon steel Kukri has a semi-polished blade with a very sharp edge upon its arrival. It would be ideal for any heavy duty chopping or work you need to undertake, but with its length and size, it may not be the best option for those looking for a machete for their camping and hiking adventures.

At 2.5 pounds, it’s one of the heaviest machete options on our list but does offer better grip than you might expect from a knife of this size. If you are a knife collector, this is a fantastic choice, as it’s similar to those used by the Gurkhas during the World Wars and is a significant historical collectible.

Pros

• The handle is just over 5 inches long and provides good grip and shock absorbing qualities
• This Kukri is made with a carbon steel blade and is ideal for chopping and heavy duty labor
• Hand forged in Nepal; this Kukri offers you an authentic copy of the traditional Kukri used by the Gurkhas

Cons

• One of the most expensive options on our list today
• A heavy and long design for carrying around all day long

5 – GLORYFIRE Kukri Knife AUS-8 Stainless Anti-Rust Full Tang with Leather Sheath

Featuring a 10 inch blade and a 5 inch rosewood handle, this Kukri knife is a great value option with a high quality and functional design. Its total length is 15 inches, and the weight of the knife is just 1.2 pounds. The blades of this knife are created from AUS-8 steel, which you’ll find in high-end Kukri knives. Thanks to the heat treatment given to this Kukri you’ll experience a 58 to 60 HRC.

To ensure your knife doesn’t rust after extended use, a black powder coating is found on the blade. This also means it’s an extremely tough and hardwearing option, perfect for a wide variety of functions or someone who spends extended periods of time outdoors.

This knife is incredibly comfortable to hold in your hand, while also being a powerful tool for cutting through a wide variety of materials. With the handle of this full tang Kukri, it can even be used as a hammer, so it’s a very versatile tool to add to your gear collection. You’ll receive one of the highest quality sleeves with your purchase, as it’s made from leather and will protect your knife from potential damage when it’s not in use. If you are looking for one of the best copies of a Gurkha Kukri, this is a modern knife which is expertly crafted for your use and enjoyment.

Pros

• The Kukri blade is made from AUS-8 steel
• A tough and hardwearing knife
• A versatile tool, which can also be used as a hammer

Cons

• Better for light cutting and work, as it potentially may break after too much heavy duty use

6 – Schrade SCHF48 Jethro 18in S.S. Full Tang Fixed Blade Knife with 11.9in Drop Point Recurve Blade

With an overall length of 18 inches and a blade length of 11.9 inches, this is a fantastic addition to any survivalist’s kit. The blade is made from high carbon steel, which is coated in titanium. You can be confident in your security and safety when using this knife, thanks to the finger guard and grooves that are part of the handle’s design. The handle itself is made from thermoplastic elastomer, which is comfy and offers very good grip.

This is one of the best Kukri thanks to the full tang design and the addition of a lanyard hole. It weighs just 1 lb 9. oz, which is a reasonable weight for this blade length and design. As a company, Schrade takes pride in creating knives designed for adventure, which you can trust and use for years to come. Regardless of whether you enjoy camping, bushcraft activities or hiking, this will be the perfect addition to your kit.

For the price point, you will enjoy a high quality Kukri knife which offers better grip than many other models of the same price. It’s a good self defense item if you are hiking or camping solo, and a hard plastic sheath is included with your purchase for your security. While it’s not of the quality that the US Marine Corps would use, it’s a good everyday item to add to your kit.

Pros

• A comfortable grip thanks to the grooves and finger guard
• The high carbon steel blade is of a high quality and ideal for bushcraft and camping

Cons

• If you are hiking or camping, it’s a longer and heavier Kukri than many of the other traditional Kukri on offer

7 – Condor Tools & Knives 60217 Heavy Duty High Carbon Steel Kukri Knife (10-Inch)

Condor have created this classic no-frills Kukri knife which has a sturdy ten-inch blade constructed from 1075 high carbon steel. The blade is 8mm in thickness, so is ideal for heavy duty work due to its length and thickness. With a blasted satin finish, the blade is also an attractive option for any knife collectors.

As a mid-range heavy duty Kukri, this is a fantastic option for anyone looking for a durable and versatile knife for their adventures. It’s constructed with a hardwood handle and comes with a black leather sheath for your convenience on the go. It is much heavier than many of the other Kukri knives within this price range, and with its thick blade, it’s ideal for cutting down thick branches or hunting. The only downside of this weight and the 15.75-inch total length of this Kukri is that it’s not the most portable option for carrying around on hiking or camping trips if you aren’t looking to add extra weight to your gear kit.

While the blade is not incredibly sharp upon its arrival, you can easily sharpen it to fit your needs. It’s a good shock absorbing Kukri, so even if this is your first time using one of these knives for self defense, you’ll find it comfortable to use at all times. Condor are renowned for their high quality machete knives, and this Kukri comes highly recommended by many professionals in the industry.

Pros

• Blade length: 10 inches, making it one of the longest knives in this price range
• The blade is constructed from 1075 high carbon steel
• A heavy duty Kukri which is ideal for chopping trees and hunting

Cons

• Due to the nature of this heavy duty Kukri, it’s going to be heavy and long to carry around on hiking or camping trips

8 – GK&CO. Kukri House Genuine Gurkha Kukri

This is an authentic Gurkha Kukri knife which was constructed in Nepal before being imported for your needs. It was made at the Gurkha Kukri House, so you know you are in safe hands with this purchase and are receiving an authentic model. This ‘the Beast’ model has a blade length 12 inches long, which is one of the longest options on our best Kukri knives list. The blade itself is made from high carbon steel, making it one of the top options on our list.

The rosewood handle provides good comfort and grip when in use, and the full tang design means this is a worthwhile investment if you are looking for a long-lasting Kukri. The knife’s overall length is 18 inches, and the weight of this knife when inside the sheath is 900 grams. The blade thickness is 10mm at the spine, offering a sturdy piece of equipment for use outdoors.

You’ll find this to be a really sharp knife, and it’s easy to sharpen and maintain after use. When you purchase this knife, it also comes with two additional smaller knives, a Karda and a Chakmak. The included sheath is made from red or brown leather and is covered in soft wood.

Pros

• Handmade in Nepal
• Your purchase comes with two additional smaller knives, a Karda and a Chakmak
• A larger Kukri knife which has a very tough blade for heavy duty work

Cons

• A long blade and quite heavy to carry around if you are camping or hiking

9 – M48 Tactical Kukri with Sheath

This is a stunning knife to add to your collection, and any adventurer will enjoy receiving this as a gift. It’s one of the best Kukri thanks to its modern design and take on the traditional knives on this list from other brands such as Ka-Bar and Cold Steel. It features a 10.5-inch stainless steel blade and an overall length of 15.88 inches, making it a sturdy piece of equipment to add to your collection.

The handle is constructed from TPR, which is an ergonomic and comfortable option for regular use. You’ll find a stainless steel guard included with your delivery, as well as a Vortec sheath. This is a modern and bold choice for your next Kukri machete, and with the razor sharp blade, you’ll enjoy using this best Kukri knife for a multitude of reasons.

The handle provides you with great grip thanks to the contouring on its design. The blade thickness makes this an ideal option for cutting almost anything, and at a weight of 0.2 kg, it’s still a good option for carrying around all day long. Users comment on this knife’s fantastic shock absorbing ability, making it great for first-time users and anyone just recently getting into bushcraft, camping, or hiking. When the knife first arrives, you’ll notice it may seem quite blunt, but it is easy to sharpen to your desired quality.

Pros

• A modern design and twist on the traditional steel Kukri
• 10.5-inch stainless steel blade, yet the overall weight of the Kukri is only 0.2 kg
• A very comfortable grip thanks to the TPR handle which can be used in any weather

Cons

• Poor quality sheath, so you may need to invest in another sheath after some time
• A lengthy Kukri machete for carrying around if you are camping and hiking with limited space for equipment

10 – Smith & Wesson Outback SWBH 17in Full Tang Kukri

At under $30, this is one of the cheapest Kukri knives available today. However, don’t be put off by the lower price, as Smith & Wesson create tools and Kukri knives which are designed to be of a high-performance level. Whether you are a survivalist or just looking to add to your knife collection, you’ll be able to rely on this full tang Kukri in any situation.

The Kukri knife blade length is 11.9 inches, and the overall Kukri length is 17 inches. Overall, your new Kukri weighs just 1 pound 3.8 oz, so it’s a great lightweight Gurkha Kukri. It’s a really reliable knife to add to your collection of gear, and the blade itself is very durable thanks to its stainless steel construction. The handle material is also steel, which is rubberized for good grip and hold.

It’s an ideal knife for hunting, and you’ll be able to quickly and easily access your new knife thanks to the included nylon sheath belt which also has a shoulder strap. A finger guard is built into the design, which ensures the blade won’t slip and that your hand and fingers are secure when in use. This makes it a great beginner’s Kukri knife, and thanks to the low price point, it’s not too big of an investment for your first knife.

Pros

• A finger guard is included in the design for your security and safety
• The handle is made from rubberized steel
• This Kukri weighs just 1 pound 3.8 oz
• One of the cheapest knives available

Cons

• The blade steels are more brittle than other options on our list

11 – Cold Steel 97KMS Kukri Machete

If you are looking for a low-cost Kukri knife, this is one of the best options on the market, coming in at under $30. It’s considered to be a workhorse alternative to the popular Cold Steel 97MKM and is much cheaper than many of the alternative options. It’s a lightweight Kukri which could easily be attached to your belt or pack.

It features a full tang which attaches to a polypropylene handle. The handle has been designed with your safety and comfort in mind, and regardless of the weather conditions you find yourself in, you’ll be able to keep a secure hold on the knife. The blade itself is made from 1055 carbon steel and has an anti-rust finish for further protection and to ensure your Kukri lasts for years to come.

For your safety when carrying the knife, you’ll be provided with a sheath upon purchase. The blade length is 13 inches, and the handle length is 5 inches. This Cold Steel 97KMS Kukri Machete weighs just 16 oz. and has a blade thickness of 2.8 mm.

Pros

• One of the best low-cost options on the market, at under $30
• A lightweight full tang knife which weighs just 16 oz
• The blade is constructed from 1055 carbon steel with an anti-rust finish

Cons

• The blade is too thin for more heavy duty use
• Difficult to sharpen the blade steel due to the coating on it

12 – Genuine Gurkha Kukri Knife – 11″ Blade World War II Wooden Handle Kukri

If you are looking for a traditional Kukri knife, this is one of the best options for you, and you’ll appreciate the craftsmanship of this Kukri knife which is handmade in Nepal. For knife collectors, this will make a fantastic addition to your collection, as it’s a similar design to those which the British Gurkhas used throughout their time in the army.

The carbon steel blade offers you a sharp and highly polished blade which is 10.5 inches in length. You’ll find a rosewood handle at the end of the blade, which offers a comfortable and grippy experience for users. The sheath is made from cotton, which is then covered in buffalo leather, and the overall weight of the knife and sheath is about 1.2 kg.

This is one of the sharpest knife options on our list of best Kukri, and carbon steel is incredibly easy to maintain and sharpen between each use. The high carbon steel blade is polished and water-tempered, so will last for years to come. Your purchase will also come with two smaller knives to add to your collection, which are a Karda and Chakmak knife as pictured above.

Pros

• The high carbon steel blade is very sharp and easy to maintain
• Blade length: 10 and a half inches, making it one of the longest blades on the market
• The handle of this Kukri is made from rosewood, which provides a comfortable grip for users

Cons

• One of the heaviest Kukri knives to carry around all day long at 1.2 kg
• A long Kukri for carrying around when you are camping or hiking

13 – NedFoss Survival Knives 6″ Hunting Blade Kukri Knife with G10 Handle

If you are looking for a premium quality Kukri, this is one of the best Kukri knife options, thanks to the 6-inch steel handle which makes this one of the most powerful tools. It’s a full tang Kukri with an overall length of 11.5 inches that will cut through anything you need to get past. No challenge is too big for this Kukri machete!

Each Kukri comes with a leather sheath for your belt, and you’ll be astonished at the quality of the components of this knife considering you are paying under $50. It’s an incredibly comfortable Kukri to hold, thanks to the handle made from G10, which is pleasant to hold and provides users with good balance. There’s a hand guard, so you can use your new Kukri knife without security or safety concerns.

This knife is best suited for outdoor use and hunting, but would not be recommended for chopping wood. If you are just getting started with survival or bushcraft activities, this would be a fantastic piece of gear to add to your collection without breaking the bank. The blade’s spine is 5.5 mm thick, making it a strong and reliable option which will be a helpful assistant when setting up your camp each evening.

Pros

• Under $50, making it one of the best Kukri knives at a low cost
• The handle is created from G10, which is comfortable to hold and secure thanks to the hand guard
• A premium quality Kukri which features a full tang design

Cons

• The sheath is a more basic design, so you may want to invest in a stronger and sturdier option if you use your new Kukri frequently

14 – EGKH-Authentic Kukri Knife – 8″ Blade Iraqi Angkhola Kukri

This is an eight-inch Kukri knife which features the same blade as the British Gurkha Issue Khukuri. It’s one of the best options on the market, thanks to the grippy handle which features deep and heavy cuts. The blade is a heavier option made from spring steel, so it’s good for cutting and hard work. The blade is processed for a good length of time during its construction, resulting in a heavy duty Kukri knife.

The handle offers a unique appearance in comparison to some of the more modern knives on our list and is made from Sadhan wood. This full tang design means it’s a strong and long-lasting option, thanks to the fantastic craftsmanship. When you purchase this knife, you’ll also receive two smaller knives with it, a Karda and Chakmak, which are useful for skinning animals and sharpening the Kukri respectively.

Due to the fact that these knives are handcrafted, they can vary slightly from the pictures you see. The handle is 4.5 inches in size, and the overall length of this knife is 12.5 inches. It weighs about 1.2 lbs, and your purchase comes with a sheath for the Kukri.

Pros

• Handcrafted to the highest quality and design specifications
• Your knife also comes with two smaller knives, a Karda and a Chakmak
• Features a heavy blade made from spring steel
• The full tang design means this is a hardwearing and long-lasting investment

Cons

• The sheath is not the highest quality in comparison to other options on our list of best Kukri knives

15 – Genuine Gurkha Kukri – 11″ Authentic AEOF Gurkha Afghan Issue

For a traditional Kukri, consider this 11 inch Gurkha AEOF which is hand forged in Nepal. You’ll receive a top-quality Kukri knife which is made in a traditional manner and has a razor sharp edge to its blade. Created from high carbon steel, the blade is ideal for building work, chopping wood, hunting and many other tasks, and can be used as an everyday machete on a farm or at home. It would make the perfect gift for anyone who loves exploring and spending time outdoors, thanks to its traditional Kukri design.

The overall length of this best Kukri knife is 17 inches, which means it’s a little longer to carry around if you are hiking or camping. The blade itself is 11 inches long, and the rosewood handle is another 5 inches. Its total weight is 1.75 lbs, so it’s not the lightest option on the market, but would be ideal for having at home or on a farm. The blade thickness is 10mm, which makes it one of the most sturdy blade design options on our list today.

You’ll receive two additional smaller utility knives with your purchase, which are a Chakmak and Karda. The Chakmak can be used for sharpening your Kukri blade, and the Karda is ideal for skinning animals. You’ll appreciate the semi-polished look of the blade, and with your new Kukri you’ll receive a sheath to cover its long blade, which is made from leather and has a dark brown appearance as it’s covered in cotton wood.

Pros

• Blade length: 11 inches, making it one of the longest blades on the market
• A high quality Kukri which is hand forged in Nepal and constructed in the traditional manner
• Blade thickness of 10mm, making the blade steel one of the sturdiest options available

Cons

• The sheath is dyed, and the color leaks quite easily. Many users find the sheath easily breaks due to the sharpness of the blade steel

16 – Magnum 01MB511 Pocket Kukri Knife with 4-5/8 in. Straight Edge Blade

A pocket Kukri will make a great addition to your tool kit, and this one from Magnum offers a high quality 440 stainless steel blade. The 4-⅝-inch blade features a straight edge, and the overall length of your new knife will be 10 and 3/8 inches. It weighs 7.5 oz, making it the perfect addition to your camping or hiking gear kit.

One of the best perks of this knife is that it comes with a limited lifetime warranty, which sets it apart from many of the other knives on this list. You’ll appreciate the lanyard hold and liner lock mechanism that this knife features. The handle is made from G-10 and has stainless steel liners, which means it offers a sturdy grip and is comfortable to hold for an extended period of time.

This pocket knife still packs a great deal of power, yet folds down in half, tucking the blade away to make it the only portable Kukri on our list. It’s ideal for chopping and many other outdoor tasks, and as it’s so compact when folded down, it’s ideal for taking on your next trip. Even though it’s a portable design, you’ll be surprised by the quality and power of this knife, and its high-quality construction. Magnum are renowned for their fantastic knives, and so along with the limited lifetime warranty, you know you are in good hands with this purchase.

Pros

• Folding pocket knife design, meaning it’s ideal for camping and hiking trips
• Limited lifetime warranty included with every purchase, so you can buy this knife with peace of mind
• Weighs just 7.5 oz, making it one of the lightest options on our list, without sacrificing quality or performance

Cons

• Many users find that the lock of this knife isn’t particularly secure, so you’ll need to be careful how you store this Kukri when traveling

17 – Stratuscrafts Genuine Handmade Gurkha Khukri

If you are looking for a handmade tool to add to your collection, this is a great option at a reasonable price point. With your purchase, you’ll receive your Kukri, two smaller knives and a sheath. With a total length of 18 inches, it’s one of the longest options on our list, and you will want to consider a shoulder strap to ease the strain of carrying this tool all day long.

The blade itself is 12 inches long, and the overall weight of this high-quality Kukri is 1 lb 9.9 ounces, which is to be expected for a knife of this length. The blade is constructed from high carbon stainless steel, which is then coated in titanium. The handle is made from wood, and it’s a full tang Kukri, making it perfect for work in your garden or outdoors.

The sheath makes your Kukri quick and easy to access and is a neutral black color. It will ensure you don’t injure yourself on this sharp blade while also protecting the steel from the elements. When it first arrives, it’s not razor sharp, so you’ll need to sharpen it yourself with the included smaller knife before its first use.

Pros

• One of the longest tools on our list, so it is a great option for heavy duty labor
• High carbon stainless steel blade

Cons

• Before its first use, you’ll need to sharpen the blade yourself, as it arrives with a blunt edge
• A very long and heavy tool for carrying around all day long if you are hiking or camping

18 – EGKH – 5″ Blade American Eagle Khukuri – Hand Forged Full Tang Blade

This is one of the best options on our list today for a portable and smaller Kukri model. The blade itself is only five inches long, and with a four-inch rosewood handle, you’ll have an easy to carry nine-inch Kukri. It’s handmade by the Bishwakarmas and is created in a traditional manner using the best materials for a great overall final result and appearance.

This knife is razor sharp, and thanks to the full tang design, it’s ideal for use in the kitchen or skinning creatures. The blade is made from carbon steel and has an unpolished final appearance. You’ll be impressed by the strength of this blade, due to the water pouring temper. The Indian rosewood handle is a popular feature of this knife, due to its eagle shape, which makes it the perfect addition to any collector’s knife gallery. If you are looking for a knife for your camping or hiking adventures, this would be one of the best options for you.

The knife’s grip is very comfortable for smaller hands, but anyone with larger hands may struggle with the smaller size of the handle. You’ll appreciate the included sheath with a belt loop, however, the belt loop, in particular, is not of the strongest quality.

Pros

• A great smaller Kukri for camping and hiking
• Razor sharp blade
• Eagle shaped rosewood handle

Cons

• Weak sheath and belt loop, so don’t expect these elements to last for many years of use
• The handle is best suited for users with smaller hands, due to its size and length

What to look for when buying a Kukri knife?

Why would someone choose a Kukri knife?

It’s important to establish your needs before purchasing a Kukri knife and to understand the difference between this type of knife and a regular knife. The knife blade of the Kukri curves inward and is wider nearer the tip of the Kukri blade. This design is due to it being a popular war weapon, as well as being a multipurpose knife. The Kukri is the perfect combination of a knife and an ax, and the blade shape near the handle allows you to use it as a small knife. Its ability to perform smaller and larger tasks is what sets it apart from other types of knife, making it versatile enough to use for a wide variety of cutting jobs.

There are many things to consider when purchasing a new Kukri knife, and you’ll notice from our list of recommended Gurkha Kukri knife options below that no two models are exactly the same. These are the most important considerations when comparing the top Kukri reviews below.

Size

The size of the Kukri knife you purchase will be one of the most important considerations and is entirely dependent on your intended use of the knife. The overall length of a full-size Kukri can be comparable to a machete and is perfect for cutting down trees or wood. A mid-range or smaller knife can still perform a wide variety of tasks and is more convenient for carrying around on hiking or camping trips.

Weight

You’ll want to find a Kukri which is of a reasonable weight to fit comfortably into the palm of your hand, yet heavy enough to be efficient at its intended job. You want the Kukri knife to swing easily, so you don’t want it to be excessively heavy. A lightweight model will suffice for small chores, whereas if you are planning to cut down trees, you’ll want to find a heavier model.

Blade Length

After choosing the best Kukri size and weight for your needs, it’s important to assess the blade length and material. Firstly, the blade length will help to make it easier to cut items, and if you are planning to use this as a machete, you’ll want one with a long and thin blade. On the other hand, if you are looking for a good multipurpose knife, a shorter blade length will be more suitable, and won’t be excessively big for carrying around.

Blade Material

The blade material should be considered alongside the blade length, and choosing the correct blade will ensure your knife is durable and lasts for years to come. Most Kukri knives are constructed from high carbon steel or stainless steel. A stainless steel blade has a fantastic look to it, and won’t rust over time, however, may lose its sharpness. On the other hand, high carbon steel knives are sharper and more durable, but if they aren’t taken care of correctly, they will rust over time. They are often costlier but will last you for many years and adventures to come if taken care of well.

Tang

If you are not familiar with a tang, it’s the part of the blade that reaches the handle. Traditionally, Kukri knives don’t have this part, or it will be very small. You’ll see two types of tang mentioned in our buying guide below; full tang or partial tang. For a long-lasting Kukri knife, we recommend a full tang Kukri, as this is likely to last you for years to come and makes for a versatile piece of equipment.

Handle

Finally, it’s important not to forget the handle of the Kukri, to ensure you are safe and comfortable whenever you are using your new knife. You’ll want to find a handle that is firm and has a good grip, making it easier to use. Most of the knives on our list feature rubber or wood as their handle material, although you may also see ivory, rosewood or hardwood handles mentioned. With the modern developments of Kukri knives, a plastic or rubber grip have become some of the most popular options. We’d recommend that you ensure the Kukri handle still offers good grip even when it’s wet, as you never know when you’ll be trapped in a sudden downpour when you are spending time outdoors.