The kukri is an ancient design, and was the short sword used by the Greek Hoplites. The curve was an early solution to bending with early metallurgy with some added benefits. You are right, it is a weapon and primarily a chopper ( earlier examples have a multitude of mini tools on the scabbard, much like a SAK.) It is such a good chopper, that the Himalayan foothills now have a crisis in erosion from loss of woodland. The weight forward ergonomics make it a supreme chopping tool. So in essence you have a regional approach to the axe with the same pros and cons.