Gothic Dagger Richard 46cm

Gothic Dagger Richard – Replica (14th–15th century)

Appearance and construction

This dagger is characterised by a straight, double-edged blade that tapers noticeably from a broad base to a sharp point, optimised for thrusting and piercing. A shallow fuller and maker's mark are visible at the top of the blade. The steel cross guard, approximately 13cm wide, has straight arms that widen slightly towards the ends (similar to the ‘carret’ sword). The grip consists of a steel core (blade tang) lined with wood and then firmly wrapped in high-quality cowhide, complete with spiral wire wrapping for a better grip. The dagger is topped with a distinctive faceted octagonal steel pommel, stylistically consistent with the cross guard and pommel of Gothic swords.

Historical classification

The Richard Dagger can be dated to the late Gothic period (approximately 14th to 15th century) based on its overall design, which includes a sharply tapered blade, straight flaring cross guard and faceted pommel. It is a typical example of a Gothic dagger or quillon dagger (dagger with cross guard), which often served as a secondary weapon for knights and soldiers, suitable for close combat or as a tool to pierce the gaps in an opponent's armour. Its components, such as the faceted pommel (reminiscent of the Oakeshott type I1 sword pommels), reflect contemporary fashion and the design principles of the swords of the time.

Variants and uses

The Richard Dagger can be ordered in two variants:

1. Sharp variant: suitable as a historically accurate costume accessory, for collectors, living history or as a decorative item. Due to its distinctive point, it should be handled with extreme caution.
2. Dull variant: With its blunt edge (2-3 mm) and rounded tip, it can be used as a training weapon for practising dagger fighting techniques (e.g. in HEMA), as a safe prop for theatre and film, or as part of the armament for re-enactment (always check the rules of the respective event).

Safety and maintenance

A dagger is also a weapon and requires responsible handling.

• Use of a dagger is at your own risk.
• Keep the dagger safe and out of the reach of children.
• The blade is likely to be made of carbon steel and is not resistant to corrosion. Clean, dry and oil it after each use.
• Regularly inspect the condition of the dagger, especially the durability of the cross guard and pommel.
• When handling the sharp version, be extremely careful because of its point.

The Gothic Richard Dagger is an elegant and historically accurate replica that would grace the armoury of a 14th and 15th century knight or soldier. High-quality Czech workmanship and a choice between a sharp and blunt version make it suitable for a variety of uses, from decoration to contact combat training.

Specifications of the photographed specimen:

• Total length 450 mm
• Blade length 300 mm
• Length between quillons and pommel 1050 mm
• The cross-section of the blade at the quillons is 33.9 x 4.2 mm
• The cross-section of the blade 5 cm from the tip is approx. 22.0 * 3.7 mm
• The centre of gravity of the dagger lies in the handle approx. 2 cm from the quillons.
• The pommel is octagonal, 38.5 x 38.5 mm, thickness 27 mm.
• The thickness of the edge of the illustrated specimen is 0.8 mm.
• Weight 659 g

Please read these Directions for the use of bladed weapons.