Ethnographic Arms & Armour - View Single Post

Nicknz · 11th July 2025, 01:30 AM

Hi

I normally collect Polynesian artifacts, but I was recently bequeathed 3 Kukri as part of a deceased relative's estate. Consequently, I've carried out some research into Kukri's and all that goes with them.
I still have several questions concerning each Kukri and consequently would welcome any information or advice that any of the more learned Kukri aficionados out there might be able to supply.
I have attached photos of each Kukri (apologies if they are out of order) and starting with:

Number 1 - this appears to be a stock standard Kukri with the only distinguishing feature being the lettering on the blade - namely N.R.G.S. followed by the letters/numbers M.O. 1939. I searched various websites to try and see what the letters refer to but without success. I assume 1939 refers to the year 1939 but the best I can find with the lettering is through 'AI' which says the N.R.G.S. could stand for "Nepal Regimental Gurka Service" and the M.O. for "Military Ordnance" - any thoughts or info re the lettering would be appreciated.

Number 2 - the main point of interest with this Kukri is the engraving on the blade which appears to be (a) unusual, in terms of very few Kukri blades being engraved and (b) of quite good quality compared to the few other engraved blades that I have seen. The handle appears to be of good quality in terms of carving as well. The sheath it came with was disintegrating but appears to be of standard make. I'm assuming this Kukri is a cut (excuse the pun) above the norm but any comment would be appreciated.

Number 3 - the point of interest with this Kukri is the handle which appears to have been made from horn with inlaid ivory - it does not follow the usual pattern, lacking the raised ridge part way down the handle. I have confirmed the ivory aspect with a local bone carver who fitted a replacement piece which was missing from the handle. This kukri appears to have been a 'working example' with the handle showing good patina. The sheath was very dirty with a thin layer of caked dirt in place between the inner sheath and the chakmak/karda holders. The knife has a full tang and I was wondering if it was originally a military model which has had a new handle fitted?

11th July 2025, 01:30 AM	#14
Nicknz Member Join Date: Feb 2016 Posts: 6	Kukris - information sought on 3 examples Hi I normally collect Polynesian artifacts, but I was recently bequeathed 3 Kukri as part of a deceased relative's estate. Consequently, I've carried out some research into Kukri's and all that goes with them. I still have several questions concerning each Kukri and consequently would welcome any information or advice that any of the more learned Kukri aficionados out there might be able to supply. I have attached photos of each Kukri (apologies if they are out of order) and starting with: Number 1 - this appears to be a stock standard Kukri with the only distinguishing feature being the lettering on the blade - namely N.R.G.S. followed by the letters/numbers M.O. 1939. I searched various websites to try and see what the letters refer to but without success. I assume 1939 refers to the year 1939 but the best I can find with the lettering is through 'AI' which says the N.R.G.S. could stand for "Nepal Regimental Gurka Service" and the M.O. for "Military Ordnance" - any thoughts or info re the lettering would be appreciated. Number 2 - the main point of interest with this Kukri is the engraving on the blade which appears to be (a) unusual, in terms of very few Kukri blades being engraved and (b) of quite good quality compared to the few other engraved blades that I have seen. The handle appears to be of good quality in terms of carving as well. The sheath it came with was disintegrating but appears to be of standard make. I'm assuming this Kukri is a cut (excuse the pun) above the norm but any comment would be appreciated. Number 3 - the point of interest with this Kukri is the handle which appears to have been made from horn with inlaid ivory - it does not follow the usual pattern, lacking the raised ridge part way down the handle. I have confirmed the ivory aspect with a local bone carver who fitted a replacement piece which was missing from the handle. This kukri appears to have been a 'working example' with the handle showing good patina. The sheath was very dirty with a thin layer of caked dirt in place between the inner sheath and the chakmak/karda holders. The knife has a full tang and I was wondering if it was originally a military model which has had a new handle fitted? Attached Images