Hi, there.
Part of the question is, "good for what?" Nepal has a lot of varying vegetation, depending on the area and altitude. That's why there are lots of different kukuri shapes. You, for instance, might make a fairly thin, light kukuri for fighting and lighter brush, or (at the other extreme), a very heavy and thick kukuri for hard use on trees.
When it comes to handle shapes, most good kuks flare outwards towards the end of the handle. This helps to naturally secure the kuk during a swing.
Steel is something else to consider. Being a larger blade, kukuris will generate more force due to leverage. This is good in that the user has mechanical advantage; this must also be taken into account when selecting the steel to use, and how to treat that steel. Many people think 5160 is about an ideal large knife/sword steel, however, it rusts fairly easily. You probably know that typically higher carbon steels are easier to sharpen, but as they get more "stainless" they are harden to sharpen and lose their edge quicker.
The one thing I might add to a kukuri I was designing was at least a vestigial guard. While not very traditional, I find one comforting.
Jim has given you a generous offer. I'd consider taking him up on it, though I can tell you that you're probably going to want to just refund him the money once you get a Himalayan Imports kuk in your hands...or, maybe he'll settle for one of your kukuris, once you get the hang of it.
John
