WWI M1916 “Avenger” French Fighting Knife

Every army needs a close-quarters weapon, even when it has guns because it’s inevitable that somebody’s going to end up within breathing distance of an enemy occasionally.

This dagger was often dubbed “Le Vengeur de 1870”  (The Avenger of 1870), a wistful reference to the French loss to the Prussian Army in 1870. The design was simple and practical enough to last into WWII.

Proving that the sincerest form of flattery is actually thievery, Germany confiscated large quantities of these knives when they defeated France and took them on their roadshow to Norway. Originals now sometimes sell for over $250 on the antique weapons market. The blade design inspired the US M1918 Trench Knife (of course, with the addition of the famous “knuckle” grip). Like the originals, this stout replica has a 6-3/4″ blade and is 11″ overall. Steel scabbard replicates the original.

SPECIFICATIONS:

• Overall Length 11”
• Blade Length 6-3/4″
• Material: High carbon Steel
• Edge: Factory Sharpened

Made by Windlass Steelcrafts®