Dagger

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Daggers are the simplest stabbing weapons in history. Short bladed, one handed, and relatively light, daggers have been constructed of everything from stone to metal alloys to composite plastics. Most daggers are designed for thrusting, but many are capable of cutting like a kitchen knife. Each culture from the Stone Age forward has used daggers and created its own shapes and styles of dagger. Daggers have rarely been used as a primary weapon except among brigands and assassins, but have been universally used as a secondary weapon in combat.

Daggers are extremely versatile weapons. It can be used for slashing, thrusting, and pummeling (with the pommel). A dagger's blade can be easily slid through the ribs and penetrate internal organs. They can be thrown as well, and are easily concealed under normal circumstances.

Pictured here are a few examples of the most common varieties of European daggers from the Middle Ages.