Article by Nicole Roberts
Written history is not old enough to determine when humans first determined that a pointed rock could kill an enemy at close range. Once the shape became a recognized weapon, design was updated, handles added, and better quality demanded by those in combat. The Bowie Knife, dirks, daggers, and stilettos became vastly sophisticated forms of the original pointed rock. That encouraged the development of military tactical knives to keep soldiers alive before others' military knives took them out.
Warfare evolved into a force using firearms, bombs, and grenades. Still, hand-to-hand combat remained a reality. A new type of military tactical knives, the bayonet, could be attached to rifles and used for spears. During World War II, the Army ordered creation of the M3 trench knife. Mountain Ranger units, Airborne units, and Glider units were issued the M3, as well as any other soldier who was not issued a bayonet. As forward and landing troops, the Marines knew that they needed a knife that was not only good for combat, but for everyday tasks.
After reviewing designs and field testing models, they chose the KA-BAR, easily adaptable for most tasks, such as clearing brush, cutting branches, opening cans, digging into wood and metal and cutting rope and canvas. Changes resulted in a longer, lighter blade, a better handle, and a peened pommel. Millions were produced during the war.
Although it disintegrated in saltwater, it was used as a diving knife. Marines would use non-reflective matte black paint to give the knives some protection against the destructive sea water. Specific purposes of diving knives fell right into place with the KA-BAR: cutting, sawing, a flat head to adjust gauges and avoid stabbing gear and buddies, and a hard pommel at the end for hammering.
The KA-BAR remains in the stock of military tactical knives. Hunters, hikers, and fishermen use similar styles of the knife, such as the D2 Extreme Fighting knife and the USMC-Serrated Edge. One of the biggest advantages of a serrated edge is the ability to cut branches and metal. A serrated blade still cuts when dull.
Astronauts benefit from military tactical knives with the ability to respond to danger in low to zero gravity situations. Their military knives are also useful for creating a way through a jammed capsule door, or opening rations.
Military tactical knives still have a place in today's world. Soldiers-of-Fortune, mercenaries, and citizen-soldiers utilize knives such as the DEF TAC Pathfinder, designed with Airborne Rangers in mind. These tactical knives are ideal as field operations wire breakers or a pry bar.
The need for close-range weaponry should continue. Meanwhile, companies such as Cold Steel will continue to listen, redesign, and produce some of the best tactical knives in existence, such as the Magnum Tanto II. Featuring a contrasting finish on the blades, a flattened, nearly indestructible handle, and a firm grip, this nice is spectacular in performance. When needed, a destructive blow can be concentrated on a small area. That achieves the initial purpose of the knife: incapacitation of the enemy.