UBB.threads Forums Edged Weapons Miscellaneous Dagger Forum Definition of a "dagger"?

Hi all,

I'm having trouble finding the actual definition of a "dagger". Legal definitions that I've come across seem to be quite vague.

Thanks

That's because legal definitions have absolutely no basis in the real world.

Dagger: A short, pointed and edged weapon for stabbing.

I like the good Rev's depiction of the real world, I certainly agree.

I think the specific thing about a "dagger" that separates it from other knives is that a dagger has a double edged blade as opposed to a bayonet which will have a flat spine and an edge. I remember some such distinction made in the NY Penal Code.

Daggers don't usually have a blood groove either, and they are always double edged and pointy and in weapons terms they are made for stabbing, but of course the daggers we collect were made for show and parade, not fighting .

Let us also remember gentlemen, that dagger is a purely American term. You might try the concept of "Dirk" or short sword versus the concept of a knife. The issue I have seen in the past is not the ability to tell the difference between a decorative ceremonial dagger and a bayonet (which also has a mounting lug), but the difference between the dagger and a knife, like the Italian model 1937 being a knife rather than a dagger due to it's length.

Just a little food for thought.

Jim