Unknown markings on Kukri

[Codfather]

I have a kukri type knife, with scabbard, no extra knives, and the blade has a distinct bend to it, not a curved blade.
Its in Flooks book, as an unknown kukri.
Markings are: REP RA 2.40, 12 1/2" blade, wooden grips, held by 3 rivits, leather scabbard is marked 1412, and dated 1927.
Any idea on who used it?
I can send nice pics to an e-mail address.
Thankyou, Andy

 

[spiraltwista]

Hi Andy, if you send pix to spiraltwista@aol.com with kukri in the title I will post them for you.

Pix of markings on kukri would be usefull. Also weight would be interesting.


There is not much evidence about them pictorialy or in documents but I have spoken to a Burma ww2 veteran who informs me, That They were used by some Burmese units {like the Chin Rifles etc.}{which sometimes imployed up to 50% Gurkhas} pre. ww2 & during WW2.

They were quite probably used elswhere by other units as well.

The design is based on a Burmese/Thai tribal design The Thais call them Meed Hnep {translates as "utility Knife."} possibly hybridised with the kukri & a western machete style handle.

The Ghurkhas have been in Burma continualy for at least the last 150 years & the designs seem to have merged somewhat over time.

The were usualy made in India for British Indian army contract. Most Ive seen are dated 1921 or 1927. They are quite collectable & also great working tools.

Spiral

 

[spiraltwista]

Andys pix.

Looks a nice piece Andy. Scabbards good to.

Is it the scabbard thats dated? {usualy at the top on the front?}

I have never seen marks like that before on a kukri blade. Either in style or orientation. There not maker marks or the usual regimental style marks, very unusual.

The may be an Individual Regimental Armourers marks or perhaps something else I have no knowledge of.

Spiral

 

[Codfather]

Yes, scabbard is dated//1927.
Andy

 

[munk]

The may be an Individual Regimental Armourers marks or perhaps something else I have no knowledge of.>>>>>> spiraltwista

We'll try and brace ourselves for that eventuality, Spiral.


....just Kidding! You are as knowledgable as they say you are, actually.
Did you have this extent of information when you were here previously?
I'm thinking you have a geniune thirst for all things khukuri, and this talent has increased exponentially since the last time we really spoke.

munk

 

[spiraltwista]

Thankyou.

I still learn more most weeks Munk, I even went to Nepal to research. And have developed contacts with MOD folks & have tried to learn from antique experts in evry field, horn, leather, steel ivory, etc. Ive spent a lot of time & effort learning about kukri & thier materials. But now I would say that last time I was on this forum I new mostly what other collectors had said. Know I realy know what I know & much of what I had been told was wrong.. I also know what I dont know.

For me its a labour of love.

Heres pix of another one of these mystry hybrid kuks from my collection. Its possible faint blade marks like this will also be on your one Andy.

The marks on this one are typicle common military inspection & makers marks.

I used one as my kitchen knife for 2 years, I realy like them.


Spiral