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M48 Liberator Trench Knife

TRENCH KNIVES

The best of both worlds, Trench Knives are what you get when you combine our brass knuckles with our knives! These sharp blades incorporate the punching power and hand protection of a knuckle duster into the handle. Get yourself one of these awesome combat knives today!


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The trench knife, also known as a knuckle knife, was invented for close-quarters combat during WWI, when fighting primarily took place in trenches. These knives redefined trench warfare, and continue to hold a place in enthusiasts’ hearts today. The distinguishing feature of this knife is the knuckle guard, intended to protect the fingers and add force to a strike during hand-to-hand combat. BUDK.com offers a selection of trench knives including, 1918 replicas, folding trench knives, cold steel blades and more.


TRENCH KNIVES FAQS  

  • Where did trench knives come from?
    Trench knives, also called knuckle knives, were created to use in close quarters combat, during W.W.I, when the fighting was taking places primarily in the trenches.
  • What made the trench knife useful during W.W.I.
    What made the trench knives so effective in W.W.I trench warfare was that they could be quickly and easily maneuvered in tight spaces. Also, they were a silent weapon that could be used to take out sentries without raising the alarm a gunshot would.
  • What is the point of that brass knuckle looking handle on a trench knife?
    The “knuckle duster” handguard on a trench knife is designed to protect the fingers during hand-to-hand combat.

Top Customer Reviews

  • Allan


    In WWI, the trench knife was intended to stab, punch and crush the enemy combatant in hand-to-hand combat. That was the sole purpose of the trench knife design for the time. Today, it will still serve the same purpose. It is not a hunting knife or a survival knife so if that is what your hoping for in the use of this knife, you will be disappointed. But if you're in a life or death situation and have the skills, this knife will get you through it. The sheath of this replica is not intended to do anything but protect the point and safeguard against accidental stab wounds. If you're looking to carry this knife, go to a saddle shop and have a durable leather sheath made for this knife as I did. I am pleased with this knife and would recommend it for those who know it's intent with the skills to use it as intended.


    Review of: 1918 WWI Trench Knife Replica
  • Crys


    This was bought as a Hanukkah present as a replica of Carole's knife. But once I saw the price I had to get 2. They arrived super fast and were so well made that they've become fully functional daily knives.


    Review of: Military Warrior Knife
  • Tim


    This trench knife is my new favorite. The pommel is built for doing damage, the knuckle guard is solid, and the blade comes as sharp as can be. The only thing is that it needs to be oiled regularly with it being high carbon steel as oppose to stainless. This is the ultimate defender and it means business. As I mentioned above, this is my absolute favorite knife because the whole thing is built for battle. You will not find a better knife for this price. Also, the heft is perfect for me, it has enough weight to make a wicked punch far more wicked and it is balanced perfectly, and it is surprisingly comfortable to hold. I am very happy.


    Review of: Combat Commander Trench Knife
  • Dennis


    Bought this for self defense, easy to conceal, knife opens well after a few tries to loosen it up a bit. Came out of the box sharp, and fits my hand pretty good. Imagine getting into a scuff and then knock some body down with the knuckles....and the Xtra security of a knife...easily a winner in my book.


    Review of: US 1918 Trench Brass Knuckle Folding Knife
  • Derek


    Very nice. Great craftsmanship, feels great in the hand, and the sheath is really impressive. I recommend this highly for those who collect, or just want a non-firearm bedside self defense "security blanket".


    Review of: Cold Steel Chaos Double Edge Knife with Sheath