Thread: Combat Knives?

You use it like a steel. It isn't so much a sharpening device. Think of it like a strop or a really fine hone. You use it to upkeep a sharp edge, but given time and patience you can resharpen your blade with it. The steel used in the 'Chakmak' is harder than the steel in the knife. Essentially the Chakmak has been hardened, but not tempered or tempered to a lesser degree than the knife to leave it harder. You can also use the Chakmak as a steel with a flint for firelighting. During the 19th and earlier 20th century military Khukuri didn't come with a Chakmak or the small knife that you have beside it is called a 'Karda'. A pouch called a 'Khalti' was also left off the sheath, it used to carry bits and pieces like a flint etc. Prior to the 19th century most Khukuri came with Karda, Chakmak and Khalti, but Khalti haven't been included back since the re-introduction of Karda and Chakmak since the 20th century. A shame really, as it would be a great survival knife with that little pouch to put some bits and pieces in.
There is heaps of information on Khukuri and Ghurka here Khukuri House :: About Us - Khukuri House - Nepal's First Genuine Gurkha Knives Shop - Buy Gurkha Knives/Khukuries Online . I'm not affilitated with them of course. I came across the site while trying to find out more about my own knives.


Mick