Description
This French WWII trench dagger stands as a striking example of wartime craftsmanship, with only two known to have been forged,one fitted with its original scabbard, the other left bare. The blade is wrought from high carbon steel, a material prized by smiths for its ability to hold a keen edge while resisting shattering under the brutal stresses of trench combat. Its blade measures roughly 6-1/2 inches long, about an inch wide, and nearly a quarter of an inch thick, giving it a sturdy yet manageable profile for close-quarters fighting. The grip is hewn from dense hardwood, shaped deliberately to fit snugly in the hand, ensuring control when every motion could mean life or death. Guarding the hand is a long steel crossguard, fashioned to prevent the wielder’s fingers from slipping onto the blade during fierce encounters. The accompanying scabbard is crafted entirely from metal, designed to protect the blade from the mud, grit, and grime that soldiers endured in the trenches, preserving the dagger’s readiness for action.
Note: This dagger is a unique sample that never entered mass production.
- Overall length: 11″
- Blade length: 6-1/2″, approximately 1″ wide, 3/16″ thick
- Weight: 6 oz
Fun fact: French trench daggers were often issued alongside pistols and grenades, serving as essential sidearms for soldiers who found themselves in the close quarters and chaos of trench raids.
