Combat knife as an effective universal weapon
Knives have long been used as weapons. The most widespread were bayonet knives, which were a very progressive design for their time. Such a knife could be used not only in hand-to-hand or bayonet fighting, but also as a universal tool, indispensable in field conditions. The design of the bayonet knives is largely determined by the need for an effective strike. Thus, it is not very different from different manufacturers. As a rule, this knife was a symmetrical long blade with a one-and-a-half or two-sided sharpening. The handle had a developed guard. Also, the knife was equipped with fastening elements to the weapon.
Despite the fact that the bayonet was inferior to the needle blades in many of its characteristics and effectiveness, but it was universal. The blade was long enough. Sometimes these knives performed additional functions. So, for example, the front part of the blade was made expanded, which made it possible to expand the chopping capability of the weapon.
In the process of developing firearms, the tendency to increase the length of the blade began to prevail. The bayonets of the great length of the times of the First World War were explained by the need to have weapons no shorter than those of the enemy. In addition, a rifle with a bayonet was often used during a bayonet attack in order to reach the enemy in hard-to-reach places, for example, at the bottom of the trenches.
When new, more effective types of weapons appeared, it became clear that such a design could not withstand criticism. A weapon equipped with a long bayonet lost its maneuverability. Therefore, there is a need to find new weapons.
So they began to use traditional types of cold arms, for example, daggers, stylized as Caucasian, which were used by the Russian army.
The French armed forces began to shorten faceted bayonets, which were intended for Lebel rifles, and also used trench knives made independently of thick wire. It was also envisaged that the handle of such an improvised knife could be used as a knuckle. Such weapons quickly spread in other armies of the world.
During the First World War, when the need for trench knives arose, a large number of firms began their production. Most of these knives practically did not differ from each other - the length of the blade was about 15 centimeters, one-sided sharpening, the presence of corrugated wooden lining on the handle. Somewhat different from all the DEMAG trench knife, having a curved metal handle, with which the knife could be easily attached to a carbine or rifle.
In the American army appeared quite effective stilettos, the arms of which were made in the form of brass knuckles. These knives are well suited for trench combat, and they can be used for striking through thick clothing. Later, this type of cold weapon had to be abandoned, preferring a dagger-type blade. They began to make brass knuckles and not so powerful. But despite this, this type of weapon did not spread until the Second World War, when British special forces began using it. It was a Fairbain-Sykes dagger with a blade about 18 centimeters and a weight of 270 grams.
Since the blade was rather long and narrow, it was most often used for thrusting. The knife had a spindle-shaped handle with a small guard. Provided also the possibility of hidden carrying such a knife. Despite the fact that such a knife had a narrow scope, however, it was very popular not only among British soldiers, but also their allies. A dagger of this type were armed with French paratroopers. A similar design was maintained in the combat knives of the MARK II, which is produced by Gerber.
Among the innovations it is necessary to note the strengthening of the cutting functions, in particular, the presence of cutters. And since the handle of the knife is made of aluminum alloy, this makes it possible to apply shocking blows with the end face.
No less interesting is the USMC knife produced by KA-BAR. Most often, this knife was used among the marines. He gained recognition not only because of his combat functions, but also his versatility. It should be noted that it is still very popular, in which constructive simplicity and versatility play an important role. The design of the knife is nothing complicated: it is a fairly wide blade, which has a one-sided sharpening and sharpening bevel, a small guard, a dial-up leather handle with a metal top and leather sheath. This model of knife received baptism during the years of the Second World War, and is still used, to be sure, in other modifications.
During World War II, the concept of manufacturing combat knives remained virtually unchanged. As before, well-established forms were used, the only thing that has changed is the use of a metal scabbard. This made it possible to wear knives not only at the waist, but also to attach them to equipment or uniform.
The most famous type of knives of this type is the Puma melee knife. Its handle was made of bakelite plastic, which was distinguished by its strength. Despite being designed as a combat weapon, due to its slightly curved blade, it could be used as a field knife. In 1942, the V-42 infantry knife appeared in the German troops. This knife was made by stamping and did not have a cross. Its handle was wooden. Also in the German parachute troops and field divisions, Luftwaffe combat knives appeared, which resembled trench knives of the First World War with a double-sided blade sharpening. However, the pilots' folding knife turned out to be the most suitable in the course of combat operations. Its main purpose was to free it from slings and belts in case the parachute gets entangled in the branches of trees. The British adopted a similar idea and ordered George Iberson & Co. to manufacture the same knives, only with minor changes.
At the end of the last century it became clear that the bayonet is no longer an effective weapon that would be used as a bayonet. For the most part, such a weapon is used as a knife. Therefore, fastening elements only interfere in the process of application. Therefore, many countries have begun to address this problem. So, the American uniforms offered a new combat knife based on the bayonet. They practically changed its design, just removed the extra elements. Finnish firms as close as possible to the design of the combat knife to the classic Finnish. A little later, removing the fasteners, they also proposed a more successful model - M-95, which is a convenient universal knife.
In addition to the Finns, Swedish special forces also use such cold arms. However, at the moment, no army in the world could completely abandon the bayonet.
So, in the US military, the M-9 bayonet is used, very much like the bayonet used for AKM machines. In England, the original SA80 design was created, in which combat effectiveness was enhanced by putting additional functions behind the sheath. It is impossible to completely abandon them, because, for example, in the same M-9 model, wire can be eaten with the help of a blade-sheath joint (there is a special protrusion). On the sheath there is a folding saw. Thus, this bayonet is more like a tool for survival than a cold weapon for special purposes.
Today, the main trend in the design of combat knives is to combine them with knives for survival. Therefore, very often one model can be presented in two forms.
For example, the Glok combat knife has an extremely simple structure, which includes a metal guard, a blade with a slight bevel, a plastic handle, in which there is a small hole, closed by a plug. Plastic sheath is equipped with a spring lock.
There is another model of this knife, differing only in the fact that there is a double-row saw on the butt. This knife became the basis for the creation of the knife OC-4, which was adopted by the special forces of Russia.
Another direction in the creation of combat knives is simplified models. So, the most simple in design are the Swedish knives Fallkniven, the blade of which has a one-piece shank that runs along the entire length of the handle. The handle itself is made of rubber with plastic lugs. Shank metal is used to deliver shocking blows. A certain part of the manufacturers, for example, the American company EK uses a cord wound in several layers as a handle. Another option is to use a patch handle. Recently, this design is becoming increasingly popular because the knife is more durable and easy to manufacture.
Modern combat knives are less focused on stabbing, as the appearance of body armor made it ineffective. Therefore, the length of the blades of modern combat knives is approximately 15-18 centimeters, and in some of the most advanced models, 12-14 centimeters. Accordingly, the dimensions of the guard were reduced, since there was no need for a strong thrust. Battle damage is mainly applied to the limbs, neck and groin. The increased width of the blade makes it possible to increase blood loss, even with a small wound. A striking example of such knives - IMPACT, manufactured by KA-BAR.
The use of combat knives in modern conditions has declined significantly, but has not disappeared at all. Indeed, the appearance of silent weapons made it possible to solve a large number of combat missions in which cold weapons were used before, but even such modern weapons cannot completely replace the use of knives.
The use of combat knives is indispensable during the conduct of hostilities in the conditions of underground utilities, the city, vehicles, that is, in those cases when using firearms is dangerous or inconvenient. That is why there appeared diminished models of combat cold weapons, designed for use in such conditions. Despite the fact that they are not so versatile, their advantage is the small size. These are usually small daggers with a blade length not exceeding 10-11 centimeters, with double-sided sharpening. In the manufacture of such models, special attention is paid to the possibility of their hidden wearing.
Some knives are designed as throwing weapons for short distances (approximately 3 meters). Such models are widely used by representatives of security structures.
Separate from the rest is a group of knives made of non-metallic materials. The emergence of this type of weapon was the natural result of increased security. They are often made of plastic and designed to deliver a thrust. Some models have a wave-like blade sharpening. And although this greatly limits the cutting properties of weapons, however, such weapons are great for use in guerrilla warfare, when the parties do not have sufficient protective equipment. In addition, this weapon is traditional, most often it is used by professionals who know exactly what kind of force and place to strike in order to be as effective as possible.
Today, with an increase in the diversity of combat situations, the design features of combat knives are also changing. Manufacturers are trying to create models with enhanced combat performance. For example, the knife MARK VATAC, produced by the American company Masters of Defense, is equipped with two horns on the guard, folded forward. They not only help to knock out the enemy’s weapons, but they themselves have an amazing power. On the handle there are special spraying that allows you to keep the weapon even in gloves. Recall that something similar was previously used in the design of Japanese knives, when the handle was covered with shark skin.
Thus, a combat knife is one of the simplest and at the same time the most advanced types of weapons that mankind invented during its entire existence. To date, there are a large number of different models: Gerber LHR, Recon Force, Bowie II, Glock, Ka-Bar, km5000, M07 Sissipuukko, M95 Sissipuukko, Rambo Signature Edition, SOG and many others. And very often, the life of if not the whole group performing a combat mission, then at least one person will depend on the right choice of a combat knife. To argue about which knife is better — meaningless — it all depends on the personal preferences of each individual warrior taken.
Despite the fact that the bayonet was inferior to the needle blades in many of its characteristics and effectiveness, but it was universal. The blade was long enough. Sometimes these knives performed additional functions. So, for example, the front part of the blade was made expanded, which made it possible to expand the chopping capability of the weapon.
In the process of developing firearms, the tendency to increase the length of the blade began to prevail. The bayonets of the great length of the times of the First World War were explained by the need to have weapons no shorter than those of the enemy. In addition, a rifle with a bayonet was often used during a bayonet attack in order to reach the enemy in hard-to-reach places, for example, at the bottom of the trenches.
When new, more effective types of weapons appeared, it became clear that such a design could not withstand criticism. A weapon equipped with a long bayonet lost its maneuverability. Therefore, there is a need to find new weapons.
So they began to use traditional types of cold arms, for example, daggers, stylized as Caucasian, which were used by the Russian army.
The French armed forces began to shorten faceted bayonets, which were intended for Lebel rifles, and also used trench knives made independently of thick wire. It was also envisaged that the handle of such an improvised knife could be used as a knuckle. Such weapons quickly spread in other armies of the world.
During the First World War, when the need for trench knives arose, a large number of firms began their production. Most of these knives practically did not differ from each other - the length of the blade was about 15 centimeters, one-sided sharpening, the presence of corrugated wooden lining on the handle. Somewhat different from all the DEMAG trench knife, having a curved metal handle, with which the knife could be easily attached to a carbine or rifle.
In the American army appeared quite effective stilettos, the arms of which were made in the form of brass knuckles. These knives are well suited for trench combat, and they can be used for striking through thick clothing. Later, this type of cold weapon had to be abandoned, preferring a dagger-type blade. They began to make brass knuckles and not so powerful. But despite this, this type of weapon did not spread until the Second World War, when British special forces began using it. It was a Fairbain-Sykes dagger with a blade about 18 centimeters and a weight of 270 grams.
Since the blade was rather long and narrow, it was most often used for thrusting. The knife had a spindle-shaped handle with a small guard. Provided also the possibility of hidden carrying such a knife. Despite the fact that such a knife had a narrow scope, however, it was very popular not only among British soldiers, but also their allies. A dagger of this type were armed with French paratroopers. A similar design was maintained in the combat knives of the MARK II, which is produced by Gerber.
Among the innovations it is necessary to note the strengthening of the cutting functions, in particular, the presence of cutters. And since the handle of the knife is made of aluminum alloy, this makes it possible to apply shocking blows with the end face.
No less interesting is the USMC knife produced by KA-BAR. Most often, this knife was used among the marines. He gained recognition not only because of his combat functions, but also his versatility. It should be noted that it is still very popular, in which constructive simplicity and versatility play an important role. The design of the knife is nothing complicated: it is a fairly wide blade, which has a one-sided sharpening and sharpening bevel, a small guard, a dial-up leather handle with a metal top and leather sheath. This model of knife received baptism during the years of the Second World War, and is still used, to be sure, in other modifications.
During World War II, the concept of manufacturing combat knives remained virtually unchanged. As before, well-established forms were used, the only thing that has changed is the use of a metal scabbard. This made it possible to wear knives not only at the waist, but also to attach them to equipment or uniform.
The most famous type of knives of this type is the Puma melee knife. Its handle was made of bakelite plastic, which was distinguished by its strength. Despite being designed as a combat weapon, due to its slightly curved blade, it could be used as a field knife. In 1942, the V-42 infantry knife appeared in the German troops. This knife was made by stamping and did not have a cross. Its handle was wooden. Also in the German parachute troops and field divisions, Luftwaffe combat knives appeared, which resembled trench knives of the First World War with a double-sided blade sharpening. However, the pilots' folding knife turned out to be the most suitable in the course of combat operations. Its main purpose was to free it from slings and belts in case the parachute gets entangled in the branches of trees. The British adopted a similar idea and ordered George Iberson & Co. to manufacture the same knives, only with minor changes.
At the end of the last century it became clear that the bayonet is no longer an effective weapon that would be used as a bayonet. For the most part, such a weapon is used as a knife. Therefore, fastening elements only interfere in the process of application. Therefore, many countries have begun to address this problem. So, the American uniforms offered a new combat knife based on the bayonet. They practically changed its design, just removed the extra elements. Finnish firms as close as possible to the design of the combat knife to the classic Finnish. A little later, removing the fasteners, they also proposed a more successful model - M-95, which is a convenient universal knife.
In addition to the Finns, Swedish special forces also use such cold arms. However, at the moment, no army in the world could completely abandon the bayonet.
So, in the US military, the M-9 bayonet is used, very much like the bayonet used for AKM machines. In England, the original SA80 design was created, in which combat effectiveness was enhanced by putting additional functions behind the sheath. It is impossible to completely abandon them, because, for example, in the same M-9 model, wire can be eaten with the help of a blade-sheath joint (there is a special protrusion). On the sheath there is a folding saw. Thus, this bayonet is more like a tool for survival than a cold weapon for special purposes.
Today, the main trend in the design of combat knives is to combine them with knives for survival. Therefore, very often one model can be presented in two forms.
For example, the Glok combat knife has an extremely simple structure, which includes a metal guard, a blade with a slight bevel, a plastic handle, in which there is a small hole, closed by a plug. Plastic sheath is equipped with a spring lock.
There is another model of this knife, differing only in the fact that there is a double-row saw on the butt. This knife became the basis for the creation of the knife OC-4, which was adopted by the special forces of Russia.
Another direction in the creation of combat knives is simplified models. So, the most simple in design are the Swedish knives Fallkniven, the blade of which has a one-piece shank that runs along the entire length of the handle. The handle itself is made of rubber with plastic lugs. Shank metal is used to deliver shocking blows. A certain part of the manufacturers, for example, the American company EK uses a cord wound in several layers as a handle. Another option is to use a patch handle. Recently, this design is becoming increasingly popular because the knife is more durable and easy to manufacture.
Modern combat knives are less focused on stabbing, as the appearance of body armor made it ineffective. Therefore, the length of the blades of modern combat knives is approximately 15-18 centimeters, and in some of the most advanced models, 12-14 centimeters. Accordingly, the dimensions of the guard were reduced, since there was no need for a strong thrust. Battle damage is mainly applied to the limbs, neck and groin. The increased width of the blade makes it possible to increase blood loss, even with a small wound. A striking example of such knives - IMPACT, manufactured by KA-BAR.
The use of combat knives in modern conditions has declined significantly, but has not disappeared at all. Indeed, the appearance of silent weapons made it possible to solve a large number of combat missions in which cold weapons were used before, but even such modern weapons cannot completely replace the use of knives.
The use of combat knives is indispensable during the conduct of hostilities in the conditions of underground utilities, the city, vehicles, that is, in those cases when using firearms is dangerous or inconvenient. That is why there appeared diminished models of combat cold weapons, designed for use in such conditions. Despite the fact that they are not so versatile, their advantage is the small size. These are usually small daggers with a blade length not exceeding 10-11 centimeters, with double-sided sharpening. In the manufacture of such models, special attention is paid to the possibility of their hidden wearing.
Some knives are designed as throwing weapons for short distances (approximately 3 meters). Such models are widely used by representatives of security structures.
Separate from the rest is a group of knives made of non-metallic materials. The emergence of this type of weapon was the natural result of increased security. They are often made of plastic and designed to deliver a thrust. Some models have a wave-like blade sharpening. And although this greatly limits the cutting properties of weapons, however, such weapons are great for use in guerrilla warfare, when the parties do not have sufficient protective equipment. In addition, this weapon is traditional, most often it is used by professionals who know exactly what kind of force and place to strike in order to be as effective as possible.
Today, with an increase in the diversity of combat situations, the design features of combat knives are also changing. Manufacturers are trying to create models with enhanced combat performance. For example, the knife MARK VATAC, produced by the American company Masters of Defense, is equipped with two horns on the guard, folded forward. They not only help to knock out the enemy’s weapons, but they themselves have an amazing power. On the handle there are special spraying that allows you to keep the weapon even in gloves. Recall that something similar was previously used in the design of Japanese knives, when the handle was covered with shark skin.
Thus, a combat knife is one of the simplest and at the same time the most advanced types of weapons that mankind invented during its entire existence. To date, there are a large number of different models: Gerber LHR, Recon Force, Bowie II, Glock, Ka-Bar, km5000, M07 Sissipuukko, M95 Sissipuukko, Rambo Signature Edition, SOG and many others. And very often, the life of if not the whole group performing a combat mission, then at least one person will depend on the right choice of a combat knife. To argue about which knife is better — meaningless — it all depends on the personal preferences of each individual warrior taken.
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