KHHI KHUKURI REVIEW: World war historic & 3 Chirra the beast
We are taking a look at a weapon forged from a history so deep and so ancient that its very origins are lost in the mists of time. This is the chronicle of the Khukuri. ​ The blade itself has been a part of our world for over 2,500 years. Its story begins in the deep, cold, and beautiful mountainous regions of Nepal. But its true origin remains a mystery.
The very spelling has been disputed for centuries—Kukri, Khukuri, Kukuri, Khukri—a testament to a legend that was born long before our modern maps were ever drawn. ​ There are many theories. One of the most compelling is that the blade's iconic, forward-curving soul is a direct descendant of the "kopis," the classic Greek sword of 2,500 years ago. It is believed that this design was carried by the armies of Alexander the Great, and when they invaded northwest India in the 4th century BC, local master smiths, the "Kamis," adopted and perfected the design for their own needs. ​
Other historians trace its lineage even deeper, to the ancient Kiratis who ruled Nepal in the 7th century, or to the Mallas, who came to power in the 13th. We know for a fact that blades of this design existed in that time, as they are now on display in the National Museum in Kathmandu. The oldest known kukri, belonging to King Drabya Shah of Gorkha, dates to 1627. Or, perhaps, the truth is simpler still: that the kukri was never a weapon of kings at all, but was born as a humble and brutally effective agricultural tool, forged by the people of the Himalayas to conquer the wild. ​ Whatever its true origin, the one, undeniable truth is that the soul of this blade belongs to Nepal.
The masters of this ancient craft are the "Bishwakarma" ethnic group, the "Born Kukri Makers," who have passed this sacred art down through generations. It is this unbroken, ancient bloodline of master forgers that brings us to the forge of today: The Khukuri House. ​ Founded in 1992, The Khukuri House is not just a company; it is a modern inheritor of this 2,500-year-old legacy. They are not just making knives; they are continuing a story. To think I was foolish enough to consider two separate reviews... no. The strength is in the two souls doctrine, and this is the perfect story for it. ​ Today, we will look at two blades that are a testament to this entire, complex, and beautiful history. They are like two brothers, born of the same fire but walking different paths: The World War (Historic) and the 3 Chirra. ​ One is the legendary Warrior Sword, the other, the formidable Warrior God. We could call them the Beauty and the Beast, yet even that misses the truth. The Beast—the 3 Chirra—is certainly no less beautiful than its brother. They simply shine in their own, terrible, and magnificent ways. ​ The World War stands as a testament to pure, brutal battlefield heritage. It is the iconic blade preferred and used by the Gorkha soldiers in that great and terrible global conflict—a deep and bloody history we will dive further into later in this chronicle. And the 3 Chirra... it is a testament to pure, formidable power. A blade that has truly earned its name: "The Beast."
Unboxing and first Impression
Both of the Kukris I received from the KKH arrived artfully wrapped in paper with a powerful plastic wrapping directly on the blades, while I fully intended to document this process in the midst of opening the blades I was not careful enough and received a deep cut on my thumb.
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While most reviewers would ignore an occurrence like this altogether and not mention it I want to use this as a cautionary tale, as you may know, many knife collectors and owners in the US frequently complain about that when they buy a knife that it seems too dull out of the box and needs additional sharpening after purchase. we see these complaints with virtually any big US company and I myself have experienced it quite a bit.
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Well...this was not the case with the khukuris from the KKH from Nepal, both the khukuri blades as well as the utility blades which we will showcase later on came very sharp out of the box, while unwrapping the plastic I accidentally faced the sharp side and this is what happened:
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I was overall not worried when it happened and I simply bandaged and disinfected the cut and it healed over a span of a couple of days but as I mentioned I want to showcase it to advise caution, the included papers that come with the khukuris come with several precaution warnings such as to never keep the blades accessible to children and always store it in their respective sheets.
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Now with this explanation out of the way I want to go a little more depth into what you can expect to receive in your package when you order your own khukuri.
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Included in your package from Khukuri House are not just the blades, but a scroll of pure, unadulterated truth. You receive detailed papers on how to care for your steel, how to use the Karda and Chakmak (the small utility knives), how to properly use the sheath as well as a detailed guide on how to use your Khukuri in a possible combat encounter. ​
This is something that I believe would shock the "harmless" mind. To see a company provide direct instructions for a "lethal blow with a fatal consequence" on a potential enemy. ​
About this, I must clarify something. ​ America, more than most nations, is known for its pride in the right to bear arms. We understand the sacred, sovereign duty to protect ourselves and our loved ones. Laws are in place to protect a citizen who is forced to fight an intruder—be it a robber on the street or a man smashing your living room window at 3 AM. ​
This is not a fantasy. These incidents are common. They happen daily in cities like Detroit or Chicago and even in my own, rural area in Northern Michigan. As I write this chronicle, a woman was just randomly kidnapped from our area. ​ The warrior understands that this chaos is real. The warrior prepares for it. ​
So, if an American who prides himself on his 2nd Amendment right sees these honest instructions from Khukuri House and feels "shocked"... that is not "logic." That is a Paradox. ​
It is the flawed logic of a mind that accepts the duty of a gun... but fears the truth of a blade. ​ The warriors at Khukuri House are not crude. They are HONORABLE. Just like the warriors here in the US, they understand that to be a truly peaceful person, one must first be capable of defending that peace.
The "harmless" man, who refuses this truth, puts everyone he loves in danger. ​ Khukuri House is not selling a "scary knife." They are providing a TOOL OF SOVEREIGNTY. And with it, they provide the truthful, honorable, and beautiful instructions on how to use it. ​ I, myself, honor this truth. I keep both of my Khukuris accessible as I sleep so in case of a break in I have a proper tool to protect my family if the situation would require it.
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Millions of americans keep guns in bed stands or under their pillow and while I also am a true firearm enthusiast, I think that a good melee self defense weapon can often be the superior choice when it comes to home defense. just like the soldiers in world war two who saw the approaching gurkha warriors armed with khukris were terrified, most intruders would choose to escape at the mere sight of the powerful blade and that way a situation can be de-escalated without anyone being hurt.
I think and write about these situations not because I seek the chaos, but because as a Sovereign, it is my sacred and sovereign DUTY to protect my home and my wife. This is not "paranoia." It is PREPARATION. And that is what this blade is. It is not just a weapon, nor just a survival tool. It is both a tool of preparation and of war—ready to build a shelter in peace, or defend the fortress in chaos.
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Now, with this said, we must go deeper. To truly understand the two souls we are reviewing today, we must first look at the fire they were forged in. This is not just a "history." This... is a Chronicle of Honorable War. ​
Origin and history
To understand the Khukuri, you must first understand the land that birthed it: Nepal. It is a country of mythical beauty and terrible hardship, a place where the air is thin and the mountains are gods. It is a land of soaring peaks, ancient temples, and a spirit of profound, unbreakable resilience.
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This resilience is not just an ancient memory. Even today, Nepal lives in a precarious position, facing immense geopolitical pressure from its northern neighbor, China, which threatens its sovereignty. This is a land that has always had to fight to remain free, and it has forged a people who reflect that same strength.
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The foundation of modern Nepal was forged in the mid-18th century by King Prithivi Narayan Shah, a leader who sought to unite the scattered Gorkha kingdoms into one large state. The soldiers from Gorkha, known for their speed, ferocity, and willingness to fight until death, were instrumental in this unification.
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Their martial prowess was quickly recognized far beyond their borders. The true global legend of these warriors, now known as the Gurkhas, was cemented during a conflict with the British East India Company in the early 19th century. Though heavily outnumbered, the Gorkhas fought with such bravery that the British generals—like James Fraser, who wrote that they "fought us in fair conflict like men"—gained immense respect for their adversaries.
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The two sides eventually formed the Treaty of Segauli, which contained a highly unusual clause: the British were granted the right to recruit Nepalese citizens. The formation of the British Indian Gorkha Army started shortly after, but their unbreakable image was sealed during the Great Indian Mutiny of 1857-58.
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The unwavering loyalty, military prowess, and fearsome courage shown by the Gorkhas saved the East India Company from collapsing. This event cemented their status as a vital part of the British military, and their loyalty has never been questioned since. This legacy culminated in the World Wars.
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During the First and Second World Wars, Gurkha regiments served alongside the British Allied forces. More than 200,000 Gurkhas fought in WW I and over a quarter of a million fought in WW II, with over 50,000 killed or injured in both wars.
It was here, in the brutal, close-quarter confines of the trenches and the jungles of Burma, that the Khukuri earned its fearsome reputation. When the fight came down to cold steel, the Gurkhas were unmatched.
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The Khukuri, carried by the Gurkhas as their birthright, was not just a tool; it was a psychological weapon. Its forward-weighted design, perfected for generations of chopping and cutting, proved devastatingly effective. The cry of "Ayo Gurkhali!" ("The Gurkhas are coming!") became one of the most feared sounds on the battlefield.
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This blade is not a fantasy. It is a tool of proven historical significance, a companion to soldiers who earned numerous gallantry awards, including the prestigious Victoria Cross (VC). And it is this very legacy—the soul of the Gurkha and the spirit of the "World War" blade—that we are holding in our hands today.
The Blades
We are now going to look at those two very blades I myself was honored with. As the masters at Khukuri House explained, both blades are forged from the same soul: 5160 high carbon steel. The primary difference is not in their heart, but in their skin.
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One is polished to a mirror shine, reflecting the light with an elegance fit for a ceremony or a showcase. The other is left unpolished, raw, and untamed, wearing the darkness of the forge as a badge of its rugged utility.
The World War (Historic)
​This is the Warrior's Ghost. This 11-inch blade is the direct descendant of the knives carried by the Gurkhas in that great and terrible conflict. It is a tool of pure, functional, and brutal heritage. ​ It is the polished one, gleaming with a bright, clean finish that belies its deadly purpose.
The 5.5-inch handle is crafted from beautiful, dark Rosewood, and the tang is a traditional "Rat-Tail" design, which has been the standard for centuries. ​ At an actual weight of 625 grams (about 1.4 lbs), it feels incredibly nimble and alive in the hand. It is a perfect balance of speed and power.
True to its lineage, it comes with the two traditional accompanying knives, the Karda (the small utility blade) and the Chakmak (the sharpening steel), both housed in its water buffalo leather sheath. This is not a "show piece"; it is a living piece of history. ​​
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​The 3 Chirra "The Beast"
If the World War is the Ghost, the 3 Chirra is the Titan.
This blade is defined by its fullers (the "Chirras"). Three deep grooves run along the blade, reducing weight while increasing structural rigidity. It is unpolished, raw, and retains the forge scale of its birth.
It is heavier, thicker, and feels like an unstoppable force in the hand. This is the tool you take when you need to chop through a forest or breach a door. It does not apologize for its weight; it uses it.
​In these pictures, we can see what it is like to use it. When I first received both Khukuris, I let the World War (Historic) sit in its sheath for a while. With its polished finish, it looked too beautiful to use right away.
That is why my first real test was using the Chirra Beast for apple cutting in my orchard. In these pictures, you can see the wear on the blade that comes from actually using it—a patina of sap and effort which, in my opinion, is just as beautiful as the mirror shine it arrived with.
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As instructed in the Khukuri House guide on how to care for my blades, I used a combination of mineral and olive oil to keep both Khukuris healthy and battle-ready between uses. This is not just maintenance; it is a ritual of respect for the steel.
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We are now going to take a look at both of the blades in action. Stay tuned...
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And in these pictures we can see how it is like to use it, when I first received both khukris , I let the world war sit in it's sheet for a while. With its polished finished it looked too beautiful to use it right away which is why my first real test with the khukris was using the Chirra Beast for apple cutting in my orchard, in these pictures you can see the wear in the blade that comes from actually using it which in my opinion is just as beautiful as when I received it.
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As instructed in the KHHI guide on how to take care of my blades, I used a combination of mineral and olive oil to keep both khukris healthy in between uses.
​THE MAKER'S SIGNATURE: Origins, Identity, and Ancient Design
​As we have seen, the package from Khukuri House comes with scrolls of history and instruction. But there is one final inclusion that stopped me in my tracks—a detail so profound it elevates this purchase above any transaction I have ever made.
With every blade you acquire from the KHHI, you do not just receive a tool; you receive the life story of the specific craftsman who forged it. This is not a generic "Thank You" card. It is a detailed dossier of the artisan's existence. It lists his name, his date and place of birth, and the exact moment he began his journey as a craftsman.
It tells you when he joined the Khukuri House brotherhood. But it goes deeper. It shares the intimate details of his life—his marital status, the number of his family members, his academic qualifications, and the specific types of blades he specializes in.
Suddenly, the knife in your hand is not just metal; it is the product of a man who has a family to feed, a history to honor, and a specific mastery to uphold. Alongside the signature and the official KHHI Seal, there is one feature that left me in complete awe: Stamped onto the document are the actual thumbprints of your craftsman.
When I saw this, I felt a connection that transcended geography. It is a visceral, physical link between the master in the Himalayas and the warrior holding the blade in America. It is a guarantee that a human hand, not a machine, gave birth to this blade.
This document felt so deep, so personal, and so honorable that I have made a Sovereign’s Decision: I will not photograph or publish the specific biography of my maker. That document represents a private bond between the smith and the owner. It is a sacred trust. I can assure you, when you order your own Khukuri, discovering who made it will be one of the most powerful moments of the unboxing.
While I will keep his face and story private, his mark upon the world is meant to be seen. Every blade bears the specific Maker's Mark—a letter engraved near the cho—that identifies the artist forever. Here is the mark of the master who forged the Beast...
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The picture shown above is that maker's mark and every khukri you order will come with this unique mark, specifically connected to your craftsman. The khukris also feature
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And right next to that mark lies the most iconic and mysterious feature of the Khukuri: The Cho.
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The Cho (also known as the Kaudi) is the distinctive notch found at the base of the blade, just above the handle. While legends say it is designed to stop blood from reaching the grip or to act as a sight for throwing, its true purpose is both practical and spiritual. Tactically, it acts as a stress reliever for the steel during the forging process and prevents cracks. Spiritually, it represents the Trident of Shiva—marking the blade as a tool of the Gods—or the hoof of a cow, a sacred reminder that the blade must never be used to take the life of the holy animal.
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In the following photos, I have captured the unique Cho on each of my blades, showcasing how this ancient signature is hammered into the steel of both the 3 Chirra Beast and the World War Historic.
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At the base of the handle lies a striking feature that immediately caught my eye: the diamond-shaped Pommel Plate.
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These are not just fasteners; they are jewels of the forge. On the World War Historic, the keeper is finished in a brilliant Gold/Brass tone, evoking the military heritage of the officers who carried it. On the 3 Chirra Beast, it shines in a Royal Silver, matching the raw power of the blade itself.
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But like everything on a khukri, beauty serves a function. This diamond-shaped protrusion is hardened steel. In a close-quarters combat situation, it transforms the pommel into a devastating Non-Lethal Impact Weapon (skull crusher). It is solid enough to be used as an emergency Glass Breaker for vehicle extractions—though I would reserve it strictly for emergencies to preserve the pristine finish of the diamond design.
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In the following photos, you can see the distinct character of each pommel—the golden legacy of the World War and the silver strength of the Chirra.
THE FORGE UNLEASHED: A Legacy of Steel & Innovation
While traditional powerhouses like the World War (Historic) and the 3 Chirra Beast stand as the flagship guardians of the Khukuri House, it would be a mistake to believe their mastery ends there.
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The KHHI forge is not just a factory; it is a laboratory of steel. Within their archives lies a level of diversity so profound that any warrior, collector, or survivalist is guaranteed to find their own personal Dream Blade. From tactical reinterpretations to historical masterpieces, the range is limitless.
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To demonstrate the sheer breadth of their craftsmanship, I have curated a selection of other significant creations from the master kamis. These blades represent the fusion of ancient tradition and modern necessity.
(All images below are the property and courtesy of KHHI Nepal. They may not be copied, reproduced, or used for any purpose without official agreement from KHHI).
KALI ASTRA (NEMESIS)
FOREST MAN PRO (YETI)
At the very top of my personal wish list stands the Kali Astra (Nemesis), a blade named after the ferocious goddess Kali Mata who slaughtered thousands of demons to save the world. While I do not own this blade yet, it is a top contender for my next acquisition due to its sheer tactical dominance.
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Designed to be a "lethal weapon of art and artillery," the Nemesis features a massive 13-inch aggressive profile built for both cutting and stabbing. What truly sets this package apart is the inclusion of a Special Backup Knife—a mirror-polished, 4-inch utility blade that nests within the sheath for precision tasks. This dual-blade system, combined with a raw black finish and ergonomic rosewood handle, makes the Nemesis a complete combat solution.
​On the other end of the spectrum, we have the Forestman Pro (Yeti). This blade caught my eye immediately because it bridges the gap between a traditional khukri and a western machete, offering a lighter, faster option for the deep woods.
Designed by Daniel Linstromberg, an Eagle Scout and avid outdoorsman, the Yeti is engineered for "continuous prolonged usage." At 10.5 inches and only 600 grams, it is light enough to bushwhack for hours without fatigue but heavy enough to chop with authority. With its full flat tang, L-Key secured rosewood handle, and western-style leather sheath for a quick draw, the Yeti is the ultimate "one tool option" for survivalists who need speed and durability in the same package.
ECHO THE PREDATOR
​Royal Kothimora (Majestic)
​​​For those who demand something even more unique—weapons that blur the line between tool, sword, and royal artifact—let's take a look at two creations that truly showcase the range of the forge.
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On the left stands the Echo, also known as the "Predator Sword." If a khukri evolved into a pure weapon of war, this would be the result. Designed by Daniel Murray-Lake, this 17-inch savage fusion of East and West is built to be a "nightmare to your enemies." With an overall length of 24 inches, it offers the reach of a sword with the chopping power of a heavy khukri. The massive 7.5-inch handle features a unique "Solar Wheel" cross pattern and an S-Guard for hand protection, allowing for two-handed operation when maximum force is required. But what makes this package truly elite is the backup system: nestled in the ambidextrous sheath are a Karda (utility knife) and a Chakmak (steel file), making it a complete survival system.
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On the right, we have the Royal Kothimora (Majestic). If you are not just looking for a khukri, but for a blade worthy of a true King, look no further. This pristine weapon is the crown jewel of the Khukuri House, distinguished by a scabbard that is a masterpiece of artistry. Nearly 200 grams of pure silver are hand-laid over a rugged leather base, discarding modern velvet for authentic tradition. To me, this is one of the most special items in the KHHI archive. I have always had a deep spiritual connection to Silver—a metal known for its purity and protective properties—and the Royal Kothimora is a "Majestic" fusion of lethal steel and precious metal that commands respect simply by existing.
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KHHI Marshal (Waterproof)
​American Eagle (Freedom)
Finally, let's look at two modern, tactical options that I know will resonate strongly with my readers in the US who demand performance in every environment.
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On the left is the KHHI Marshal, a modern khukri engineered for modern warfare. What sets this blade apart is the complete overhaul of the handle and sheath system for all-weather dominance. Instead of traditional wood or horn, the Marshal features a Solid Rubber Handle designed for maximum grip in the harshest conditions. Paired with a redesigned Army Green Kydex Sheath, this 9-inch blade is fully water-proof and rot-proof, making it the perfect companion for jungle warfare or wet-weather survival.
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On the right stands the American Eagle (Freedom). For the true patriots among us, this is a tribute to the ultimate symbol of liberty. Known as the "First Gurkha-Style American Khukuri," the handle is carved from Indian Rosewood into the distinct shape of a Bald Eagle's Head. But it isn't just about aesthetics; this design incorporates a unique Upright Guard that lifts from the bolster to protect the user's hand. Built on the legendary "World War" blade platform, this 10-inch mirror-polished beast combines Gurkha history with the spirit of American Independence, creating a rugged statement piece that screams "Freedom" with every swing.
The Doctrine of the Living Steel (Conclusion)
​From the second I held my 3 Chirra Beast and World War Historic, I knew this was not ordinary steel. It is alive. These blades have a soul. They speak to you. They demand to be honored—not just as museum pieces on a shelf, but as tools of action in the real world.
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I have deployed both of my khukris for a variety of tasks—from heavy forestry work, limbing pine and apple trees, to delicate precision cuts opening special shipments, and even keeping them close as a primary home defense option. The blades are intuitive; they move with you, not against you.
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The World War, with its mirror-polished finish, carries the energy of a pure defense weapon—pristine, lethal, and historic. The 3 Chirra, with its unique fullers and raw power, increases aviation and swing velocity, making it superior for heavy wood cutting and outdoor dominance. They resonate on different frequencies, but both vibrate with the same mastery.
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To find these blades and discover the hundreds of other masterpieces forged in the Himalayas, go to The Khukuri House.
Find the blade that speaks to you.