Nepalese Kora Sword – Ex Gurkha Khukuri House

Few swords can equal the tremendous chopping power of the Kora of Nepal; traditionally a sword of ritual sacrifice and ceremony, its blade functions similar to a very large Khukuri with its thick spine and forward-curved, scythe-like blade. The 24.5 inch blade of 5160 high carbon steel is quite thick along the spine to give substantial durability and it thins considerably toward the tip into a splayed, fan-like shape that flattens its overall shape to ensure it slices into a through a target with minimal resistance. This is a hefty sword which was not designed for war, but for powerfully cutting a fixed target in ceremony or ritual. For the collector looking for something unique to expand their collection or the backyard cutting enthusiast who wants to experience the cutting potential of one of the most powerful cutting swords in history, the Kora would be an excellent choice.

The rondels that surmount the grip are made of steel and the thick wood grip that measures 4 3/8″ is wrapped in spiraled brown leather.  The sheath is made from tough, durable leather with a stitched construction and buttoned retaining straps.

The Kora(also spelled Kōra or Khora) is a formidable traditional sword of Nepal, strongly associated with the Gurkha warriors and Himalayan martial culture. It features a distinctive forward-curving, single-edged blade that is narrow at the hilt and dramatically widens toward the tip, often ending in a broad, flared, or stepped “elephant-ear” shape. This heavy forward-weighted design concentrates tremendous chopping power into each strike, making the Kora exceptionally effective for cleaving through a target. The blade typically has a thick spine for rigidity, with the sharp edge along the inner curve, and is sometimes decorated with engravings, fullers, or symbolic motifs like lotuses, eyes or suns filled with lacquer.

Historically used in warfare and ritual sacrifices, the Kora also served ceremonial and symbolic roles, representing authority and divine power. Its simple yet functional iron hilt usually includes disc-shaped guards and a leather-wrapped grip. Though less famous globally than the Kukri, the Kora remains one of Nepal’s most iconic and visually striking traditional weapons.