Knives of some form are one of the earliest existing weapons and tools. Early Native American knives were generally of knapped stone, with some bone bladed weapons specifically made for stabbing were also carried. As they encountered the sturdier heavier “longknives” of early Europeans they eagerly traded for these items. This resulted in knives of various styles/designs and quality spreading throughout the frontier. This class will examine the use of the knife as a weapon in the context of the early American frontier. Various knife designs from early flint and bone weapons to the longer bladed knives carried by frontiersman core combative principles will be explored through drills and partnered training.
