Army Dagger Knives

Double-edged daggers built on military patterns. A dagger differs from a fighting knife in that both edges are sharpened and the blade is symmetrical, which favours thrusting over cutting. These are made as collector, presentation and display pieces rather than field tools. Damascus and stainless versions are available, with brass fittings and a fitted sheath. Double-edged knives are restricted in several US states, so confirm your local law before ordering.

Dagger or fighting knife

The words get used as if they mean the same thing and they do not. A fighting knife has one edge and a spine, so it can be pressed, battoned and used for camp work. A dagger is sharpened on both sides and symmetrical about its centre line, which makes it a thrusting shape and takes away the spine you would otherwise lean on. That is why the military patterns these are built on were issued alongside a utility knife rather than instead of one.

What we build them from

Damascus versions are 1095 and 15N20 forge welded in our Memphis, Tennessee workshop, so the pattern runs through both bevels and meets at the point. Stainless versions hold a brighter finish and ask less of you in humidity. Fittings are brass, and handles run from rosewood and walnut through buffalo horn and micarta depending on the piece. Each one ships with a fitted leather sheath.

Who buys these

Mostly collectors, and people buying a presentation or retirement piece for someone who served. They photograph well, they sit well in a display case, and an engraved blade turns a knife into a record of something. They are not field tools and we do not pretend otherwise.

Questions people ask

Can I have it engraved? Yes, in house before it ships.

How do I care for the Damascus? Keep it dry, wipe it after handling, and put a light oil on the blade before it goes away. Carbon steel takes a patina and some collectors want that. If you do not, the stainless pieces are the easier choice.

Is it legal where I live? Double edged knives are restricted in several US states. Confirm your own local law before ordering.

Related: four edge daggers, all hand forged knives.