The dirk knife traces its origins to several hundred years ago when Scottish natives used these knives for combat instead of more expensive swords. Modern dirk knives still work for combat and self-defense, but the modern design has a much shorter blade than the original.
Impressive details on the blade and in the handle give modern dirk knives distinguishing characteristics that appeal to collectors. For a long blade in a dirk knife that looks great with handmade details, the Poshland Handmade 17-Inch Dirk Knife is a popular choice.
What to know before you buy a dirk knife
Blade length
A dirk knife blade can have a wide range of lengths, measuring anywhere from 4-12 inches. For those wanting to carry the knife, a shorter blade may be more convenient.
Handle length
Typically, the handle on a dirk knife will measure 4-6 inches.
Single-sided blade
Many modern dirk knives will only be sharp on one edge of the blade, although some double-sided blades are available. With the single-sided blade, manufacturers can create a thicker knife that feels sturdy in the hand.
Sharp-pointed design
The dirk knife will most often have a sharp-pointed blade, much like a dagger. Those using this blade will use it as a piercing weapon, rather than as a slicing weapon.
Common use cases
If you are seeking an everyday knife for things like hunting or dressing a game animal in the field, you probably will want to go with the best hunting knife, rather than a dirk knife.
While the dirk knife will work for hunting or self-defense, owners commonly use it as an ornamental knife for display. Some people even use their dirk knives as letter openers. Some dirk knives are lightweight models that may not stand up well to regular use, making them better for display.
For someone who wants a dirk knife for use outdoors when camping, fishing or hunting, look for a model with a longer-than-average blade and with a rugged design. You may want fewer ornamental accents on the handle and blade when the dirk knife will be a working knife.
Dirk knife features
Original vs. reproduction
The majority of dirk knives for sale will be modern reproductions of older knife designs or will be new modern designs. Some collectors are looking for vintage Scottish dirk knives that may date back to the Middle Ages. However, such knives are rare and are extremely expensive.
Aesthetic features
One of the most popular aspects of a dirk knife is its design elements. You’ll find these on a number of different parts of the knife.
Blade: The blade of the knife may have etchings or drawings on it in a patterned design. These will catch the eye, making the dirk knife ideal for display. Some blades will be handmade, enhancing the vintage feel of the dirk knife. Even with a blade with ornamental patterns on it, it is a real knife with sharp edges. It is not a toy, and owners should handle the knife properly.
Handle: Handles may consist of wood or steel. Some have a combination of both materials. The wood handles often have a rich, dark stain color that nicely offsets the metal on the blade. Metal handles may have intricate designs that resemble drawings and patterns from Scotland.
Sheath: Thick leather sheaths (or scabbards) are commonly sold along with the dirk knives. These sheaths protect the knife owner from making inadvertent contact with the sharp blade.
Dirk knife cost
Small dirk knives may cost $10-$25, while longer dirk knives can cost $25-$100.
Dirk knife FAQ
How does a dirk knife differ from a dagger?
A. As a general rule, the dagger will have two sharp edges, while a dirk knife usually has one sharp edge. However, the two knives have a similar shape with a sharp point and a similar average blade length.
How do I know if I can carry a dirk knife legally?
A. Some states have laws banning the carrying of dirk knives, while others have no rules against carrying one. Some states have laws banning concealed carry of the dirk knife. If you plan to have the dirk knife on your person, you may want to check on your state’s laws before purchasing it.
Which dirk knife should I get?
Best of the best dirk knife
Poshland Handmade 17-Inch Dirk Knife: available at Amazon
Our take: The handmade details forming a fire-storm pattern on the sharp edge blade will set this dirk knife apart from its competitors.
What we like: This is a 17-inch knife with a 12-inch blade that makes a strong statement. The dark-colored rosewood handle is the perfect complement to the detailing on the blade. It ships with a durable handmade leather sheath for protection.
What we dislike: It carries a higher-than-average price point. It may be too long for some people to carry comfortably.
Best bang for your buck dirk knife
Ace Martial Arts Scottish Gaelic Twist Knot 9-Inch Dirk Knife: available at Amazon
Our take: This inexpensive dirk knife has a simple design in the blade, allowing the impressive details in the handle to grab your attention.
What we like: The stainless steel blade in the 9-inch knife will stand up to any use case. The steel handle has an interesting braid design. As the perfect finishing touch, the handle has a faux blue stone in the end.
What we dislike: The 4.5-inch blade is quite a bit smaller than average. This is more of an ornamental dirk knife than a working knife.
Honorable mention dirk knife
SZCO Supplies Scottish 12.5-Inch Dirk Knife, available at Amazon
Our take: Those seeking an eye-catching design in a reasonably priced dirk knife will appreciate this model.
What we like: At 12.5 inches in length, it’s easy to carry in the included leather sheath. The rosewood handle has grooves, so you can grip it tightly. The steel alloy blade has impressive detailing that makes this dirk knife perfect for display.
What we dislike: Cleaning the blade requires hand washing only. The blade measures only 7 inches, which may be too small for some people.
Kyle Schurman is a writer for BestReviews. BestReviews is a product review company with a singular mission: to help simplify your purchasing decisions and save you time and money.
BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. BestReviews and its newspaper partners may earn a commission if you purchase a product through one of our links.
Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
