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
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