While long-range weapons like guns are advancing rapidly with high lethality, capable of eliminating enemies from a safe distance, a combat dagger remains an extremely dangerous close-quarters weapon if it falls into the hands of skilled and experienced soldiers.
In addition to their combat use, daggers are also designed for other practical purposes such as chopping wood, opening ammunition boxes, and helping soldiers survive in various situations. Below are some of the most dangerous daggers considered the preferred close-combat weapons by soldiers.
The Most Dangerous Military Daggers in the World
10. BC-41
The BC-41 is a dagger designed with a knuckleduster, used by British commandos during ambushes or close combat in World War II. The dagger is approximately 22 cm in length and is held in a reverse grip. It features two sharp blades, with the inner blade longer than the outer blade. The handle, combined with the knuckleduster, measures 10 cm, suitable for various hand sizes.
9. Push Dagger
Unlike traditional daggers, the push dagger, also known as the T-shaped dagger due to its unique shape, is specifically designed for the blade to face forward, while the handle is gripped between the index and middle fingers. This special design alters the fighting style compared to typical daggers, resembling a knuckleduster but capable of inflicting higher damage with two sharp blades. The push dagger has a total length of 19 cm.
8. SOG Seal Knife 2000
The SOG Seal Knife 2000 is a close-combat knife used by Navy SEALs, featuring a special emblem engraved on the blade. SEALs are among the most elite military forces globally, with each SEAL undergoing rigorous training to become exceptional warriors. The knife is 30 cm long, with an electrostatic painted blade that offers a beautiful design and a longer cutting edge. The handle is made from synthetic rubber with a textured surface and grooves for a more secure grip.
7. Fairbairn-Sykes
The Fairbairn-Sykes may remind you of a miniature version of the medieval swords used by knights. This dagger measures 19 cm in length, featuring a symmetrical design with two sharp blades. It can be used for both stabbing and slashing moves. Designed by William Ewart Fairbairn and Eric Anthony Sykes, it was later utilized by British commandos and pirates during World War II.
6. Fixation Bowie
Manufactured by SOG, the Fixation Bowie features a classic and user-friendly design. It measures 30 cm in length, with a 17 cm blade and a seamless design. The handle is made from Kraton synthetic material.
5. LHR
This is a modern combat dagger designed by Chris Reeve and William W. Harsey Jr. It has received awards and high ratings in quality assessments of military close-combat knives. The dagger is 30 cm long, with a blade length of 17 cm, and features a handle design that provides comfort for the user. The LHR also comes with a special safety sheath that can only be unlocked by the wearer.
4. BW-ACK
The BW-ACK is a multifunctional dagger designed according to the military’s new requirements. Manufactured in Germany, it is primarily used by the German military. This knife is popular due to its multifunctionality; besides combat, it can chop wood, saw, act as a screwdriver, and even open cans and bottles. Additionally, it can withstand temperatures up to 80 degrees Celsius, moisture, mold, and is resistant to various chemicals.
3. M-9 Bayonet
Not only a close-combat knife, the M-9 Bayonet is also designed to be attached to the M-19 rifle like a bayonet. It was designed and developed by Charles A. “Mickey” Finn in 1984 in the USA. The knife measures 31 cm in length, with an 18 cm blade, and the spine can be used as a saw. The handle is made from flexible synthetic plastic.
2. Eickhorn
The Eickhorn is a close-combat knife used by the German military, meeting NATO standards. The knife measures 35 cm in length, with a 17 cm blade that can be adjusted with a screw on the handle. Weighing only about 440 grams, this knife is incredibly versatile. It can also serve multiple purposes, with the spine designed like a saw blade.
1. Gerber Mark II
The Gerber knife tops the list, but it is not just a military knife. Its original design, the Mark I, was not well received; it wasn’t until later that weapon designer Al Mar of Gerber improved the knife with two serrated edges, transforming it into a multifunctional tool. The Gerber Mark II gained attention for its versatility and ability to help soldiers survive in challenging conditions. The knife is 30 cm long with a double 15 cm blade made from a single piece of black metal. To this day, the Gerber Mark II is widely used not only in the military but also in survival kits, especially equipped for parachutists or outdoor enthusiasts engaged in hunting and camping.
