British WWI Improvised Trench Knuckle Duster/Fighting Knife Made from the ‘07’ Pattern Bayonet & Scabbard. 20012:2. Daggers

With the exception of the German Nahkampfmesser or (close combat knife), most early trench knives were fabricated by hand by individual soldiers or blacksmiths for the purpose of silently killing sentries and other soldiers during trench raids. These early "trench knives" were often shortened and sharpened Army-issue bayonets. One type of stabbing weapon, the French Nail, was made by cutting and pointing the steel stakes used to support the barbed wire protecting trenches. Some historians say that some trench knives models were inspired by the Bowie knife. Soon afterwards, these fabricated trench knives were used in defensive close-quarters trench warfare, and such fighting soon revealed limitations in existing designs. This unique example has been fashioned from the ‘07’ pattern bayonet. The push button release has been removed and now holds the top of the ‘knuckle duster’ hand guard. The single edged fullered blade now measures 19 ¾ cm (32 ½ cm overall). The blade retains 75% of its original paint. The wooden grips are in very good condition. The scabbard has been expertly shortened to accommodate the blade. The leather and stitching are in excellent condition and the metalwork still retains some of its original paint. A very unique piece for the collector or enthusiast. The price includes UK delivery. 20012:2.