If you go camping or backpacking you’ll carry along a knife to cut down branches or debris for firewood. Using a suitable blade will allow you chop in a safe and efficient fashion. If you get outside often hacking down wood, then you have the option to use a kukri machete.
Here's a quick list of our top picks for the best kukri:
Who Needs To Use A Kukri?
Anyone who goes camping out in the woods could use a decent kukri blade. These blades work both as a tool and weapon for the outdoors. The kukri works like a machete with it’s main use for chopping motions. The blade can function as a self-defense weapon against animals. Additionally, it can work to chop tree limbs and build up fire wood.
The machete for its weight gives a multipurpose function for any campsite. You can cut wood, prepare food, and even for use it for self-defense combat. Instead of carrying a variety of other tools, this blade has a versatile function. Moreover, you only have one tool to maintain and store in your hiking bag.
The following YouTube video explains why to carry a kukri blade:
Are Kukri Machetes Different To Regular Machetes?
Kukri machetes have quite a different build than a traditional machete. The original blades have a history that goes way back into the early 1800’s. The machete and blade was first designed by the Gurkha in Nepal. They used them as both tools and weapons for moving through forests. The following YouTube video explains the uses and history of the kukri:
Whereas traditional machetes feature a straight blade, the kukri features a curved blade. This allows for more fluid slicing straight across a target. Additionally, many have a notch or cut out at the bottom of the blade. This prevents any blood or sap from dripping onto the blade’s handle. Thus, keeping it from getting slippery.
How Do I Choose A Kukri?
One of the most important parts of a kukri machete would be the length of the blade itself. The longer the blade, the more utility you can get out of the tool. The smaller the blade, the easier it is to carry alongside you.
Buy a kukri blade of your preferred function and origin. Some blades stick to the more traditional Gurkha style. Whereas others go for more of a contemporary style. A traditional kukri will have the classic silver steel color, often hand forged. Many modern blades opt for a black coating, along with machine crafting.
Choose a kukri that is well made so it lasts. Your blade will endure a lot of wear when using it over time, so it needs to be durable. Moreover, you want to make sure it will last from heavy use in the outdoors.
Below is a checklist of things to look for when choosing a kukri machete:
- Ensure the blade length is what you need.
- Buy a machete with your preferred crafting.
- Choose a kukri that is well made.
What Is The Best Kukri?
We’ve looked at a range of kukri machetes that work both as a tool and weapon, and have selected five blades. The main things we’ve looked at are quality, price, and the specific features. We’ve reviewed these five blades and listed some pros and cons for each kukri.
our #1 rated
KA-BAR
2-1249-9
Quality
Price
Our rating
The KA-BAR 2-1249-9 kukri machete is available in one color and style. The blade features a black carbon-steel blade. The machete has ideal uses for chopping weeds, clearing a campsite, and much more. The blade also comes with a leather/cordura sheath for safe carry and storage.
Customers who purchased this blade liked how easy it was to carry with the sheath on their hip. People said that the machete’s swivel ring allows it to not fight gravity, and works well. Customers also said that the blade bites deep and fits natural in the hand.
A few customers who used this machete for chopping said the black finish didn’t last after bush hedges. Some people also said the sheath can be awkward to use to pull the blade in and out. Many customers said they wished there wasn’t a finish on the blade in the first place.
PROS
CONS
our #2 rated
Schrade
SCHKM1
Quality
Price
Our rating
The SCHKM1 kukri blade from Schrade comes with a 13.3 inch blade for 19.7 inches in total length with the handle. The machete features a safety grip handle, along with a stainless steel blade. The machete also features a ferro rod for starting fires.
Customers who purchased this machete said that it chops through wood quite well. Many customers also said the machete’s handle has an ergonomic and comfortable fit. Other customers commented the included accessories had excellent quality for the price.
Some people who purchased this machete said that it cut through its own sheath on first use. Others reported that the blade broke after a couple of uses chopping hardwood. A few customers also said that the sheath did not have compete stitching at the bottom.
PROS
CONS
our #3 rated
EGKH
Gurkha Forged
Quality
Price
Our rating
This genuine gurkha kukri machete made by EGKH features a 10 inch blade and hand forged crafting. The handle is of Rosewood material with safety blocker grip. Additionally, the sheath for the machete features hand made refined buffalo leather.
Customers who purchased this machete said that it features superior craftsmanship. People said that the knife is a finished piece, with heavy duty quality. Many customers found the level of grip and strength in the blade quite impressive.
A few customers who purchased this machete said that it had some porosity around the hand guard. A few customers said the sheath was too loose for the included smaller tools. Some people also said they would’ve liked the handle got loose over time.
PROS
CONS
our #4 rated
EGKH
Gurkha Afghan
Quality
Price
Our rating
The EGKH genuine Gurkha Aeof kukri comes from Nepal and features a hand forged blade. The blade measures 11 inches in length, along with a 5 inch Rosewood handle. The machete also features a buffalo leather sheath for safe storage and carry.
Customers who purchased this machete found the materials to be of high quality. People said the machete has a comfortable handle and great for any chopping tasks. Customers also commented that the curve in the blade makes it easy to slash.
Other people who used this machete said that the oil in handle and blade is a little cheap, and not food safe. Customers also said the the small sharpener blades don’t fit in the sheath well. Some customers reported that the sheath had a loose build quality.
PROS
CONS
our #5 rated
Cold Steel
Kukri Machete
Quality
Price
Our rating
This kukri machete made by Cold Steel is available with a 13 inch blade and 5 inch handle. The blade features carbon steel with a rust resistant baked matte black coating. The blade also has a cor-ex sheath for safe and secure storage of the machete.
People who purchased this machete said that it’s well made and durable. Customers said that the blade has a lightweight feel. For this reason, it works perfect for those backpacking or camping. Customers also said that there’s minimal shock and vibration to the hand when chopping.
Some customers who used this blade said that the metal was very soft with a cheap handle. A few customers said the blade was difficult to sharpen. Some people also said that the machete was thin, and prone to bending.
PROS
CONS
Our Choice
Each machete we’ve reviewed works for those looking to chop wood, and have a multi-functional tool. All the machetes have decent cutting power, safe handles, and a portable size.
After comparing all the products the best kukri is the KA-BAR 2-1249-9 machete.
This machete is comfortable to use and easy to cut with. The blade can work for wood cutting, cooking, or as a weapon. We also like the fact that the kukri has a protective sheath for safe carry and storage.