Combat Knives

In the past, combat knives were used on many battlefields. Even today, units of the military and police are partially equipped with such special knives. But while this type of knife used to be exclusively used as a close combat weapon, modern models can be used as versatile tools. Therefore, these reliable knives are also very popular in the camping, outdoor, and survival areas. You can find high-quality combat knives in the online shop of Meister Messer.

Originally designed as a pure weapon

With historical models and various modern designs, there are several different types of combat knives. Classic combat knives were used for close combat. This purpose was also reflected in the construction of the knives. In order to be able to stab as easily as possible through the ribs of enemy soldiers, the weapons were characterized in most cases by a rather narrow, double-edged blade. However, there are also combat knives designed as curved slashing weapons. An example of this is the Kukri - a traditional weapon of Nepalese soldiers.

Modern combat knives are weapon and tool in one

As close combat has little relevance in modern warfare, combat knives are now mainly used as tools for various tasks. For this reason, such knives are primarily designed as reliable multi-purpose tools in today's time. They are suitable, for example, for prying open doors and crates, opening cans and cutting bread, but also occasionally for cutting fibrous materials and/or splitting wood. Therefore, suitable models are also recommended for bushcrafters and backpackers.

What distinguishes a military combat knife?

Although a wide variety of models can be found on the market, all military combat knives have one thing in common: they must function flawlessly even under adverse conditions. Therefore, this type of knife focuses primarily on stability and robustness. A characteristic feature of modern military combat knives is their wide, single-edged blade. There are versions with a plain edge as well as those with a partially serrated edge. Models with a full serrated edge, on the other hand, are less common.

Numerous combat knives designed for tactical use also feature a blackened blade that minimizes light reflections that could give away the wearer's position. Some models are also equipped with additional features such as a serrated back or a glass breaker at the end of the handle.

Modern Combat Knives: Shaped by the martial arts over centuries

Parallel to the military development of the combat knife, a completely different evolution took place. Through various martial arts, new types of knives were constantly being produced around the world. The Karambit, for example, originated from a harvesting knife dating back to the 11th century and only became known as a combat knife through the martial arts of Pencak Silat and Kali. Nowadays, there are very modern and technically sophisticated designs used by various tactical units. A good example of this is the Provoke by CRKT.

Modern variants of the weapons Wakizashi and Tanto, originally reserved for the Samurai, are also very popular. Such are very much designed for their original martial purpose, although longer blades are hardly used for military purposes in today's time. These modern combat knives are fully functional and for many martial artists and enthusiasts a romantic homage to a time when armed close combat was part of the daily routine of the warrior class.

The traditional Japanese blade shape has now been adopted by many Western knife designers and further developed in various ways. The renowned manufacturer of high-end combat knives and tactical knives Extrema Ratio, for example, uses a blade shape reminiscent of a Tanto in models such as the Col Moschin. However, this shape is elongated towards the tip to improve penetration capabilities.

The most well-known evolution of the Japanese blade shape is called American-Tanto. This is characterized primarily by its secondary point, which is located instead of the curvature of the Tanto edge. Corresponding combat knives (example: Tanto Lite outdoor knife from Cold Steel) typically have a blade that tapers only slightly towards the secondary point, making it very stable. The straight shape creates a strong point that penetrates easily, but the secondary point causes greater damage than, for example, a dagger blade. The American-Tanto edge is also used today in military combat knives and tactical knives.

Design-Kampfmesser: Beautiful and dangerous

Many of today's combat knives have also emerged from a growing market that demands increasingly extravagant and exclusive models. The combination of "beautiful" and "dangerous" has always been irresistible to many. The Legionnaire Bowie, designed by Gil Hibben and known from the movie "The Expendables 2", is a good example of a combat knife that is certainly fully functional, but rarely used for military purposes outside of the film. Nevertheless, such a knife is a rewarding possession for numerous fans, who only take it out of the display case when someone visits who shares the fascination for such masterpieces.

How do I find the right combat knife?

Which model is recommended for you depends primarily on the intended use and your personal preferences. If you are looking to acquire a combat knife for camping or during an outdoor trip to have a reliable tool, you will obviously need a different model than for professional use in the military. When making a purchase decision, you should not only consider the blade shape and length, but also take into account how you want to carry the knife later on. Will a model with a sheath suffice, or do you prefer a combat knife with a holster?

Order top-quality combat knives online

You are planning a longer trip into nature and want to equip yourself with an all-round tool that proves helpful in various situations, or you are looking for an extravagant designer piece for your collection? If you are in search of a combat knife, it is worth taking a look at the online shop of Meister Messer. We offer our customers a wide selection of high-quality combat knives at affordable prices. Whether it's Fox Knives, Cold Steel, or United Cutlery: Our range includes numerous quality brands, so that a suitable model can be found for every purpose - Choose your personal favorite today and look forward to a reliable and durable multi-tool.