Hi Howard,
Daggers are for "sticking". Fighters are a category that allows many styles to be "lumped" into it.
In the 16th - 18th centuries when Custom Knives were made for both military and the rich. Every blade style that you could think of was used. Daggers were generally carried as ornemantal pieces, however they found service as a "in close" weapon during sword fights.
Fighters didnt become popular until swords were no longer carried on a daily basis (mostly due to laws).
These knives were first and foremost a tool, that were used as fighting knives when that became what the knife was needed for.
You bring up the Brend Model 2, which as everyone knows I am very fond of. I carried one for several years. However, I also carried a M-16 and a .45 in the field as well. I had access to and training in the utilization of Mortars, Artillery, Close Air Support (both fixed and rotary winged) and even Naval Gun Support. I even went through a "Back Pack" Nuclear Weapon course. Oh yea, and as a Rifle Platoon Leader in the 101st, I had 45 Highly Motivated, Trained Killers!
Point is, with all this I never considered the Brend as a "Fighter". I viewed the knife as a tool. Because if I was using it as "Fighter" it was because I was in deep "DO DO".
Question: What is the best fighting knife in the world?
Answer: The one in your hand when the knife fight starts.
As someone pointed out symetry is the trade mark of a dagger. A double edge fighter will generally have a little thicker tip (especially the Brend). They also will have a more utilty purpose. The Sykes-Fairbain Dagger issued to British Paratroopers in WWII were despised by the troops who used them. As Infantry soldiers are not known for the gentle use of their issued items. The tips of the knives were famous for breaking off.
So while they were great for sentry removal (sliding the blade betwen the 6th and 7th rib ). They were really good for nothing else.
For the double Hamon. I would check with some of the ABS Master Smiths. Im sure they could make for you exactly what you are looking for.
Personally, I like Fighters better than daggers. With Sub-Hilt Fighters being my favorite. Currently, Walter is making a Sub-Hilt Fighter for me in 3V. No, it's not for sale, this will be my personal knife.
Howard, look at the job you want the knife to do. Then design it for that job.
A hammer and a screw driver are both tools, but are not interchangeable. To many people want to make one knife be all things.
When I was in the field I carried 3 different knives and a Machate. Right tool for the right job. Once your carrying 110 pounds worth of equipment whats another 2 pounds of knives!
Howard, if you would like to talk more about knife design feel free to email me.
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Les Robertson
www.robertsoncustomcutlery.com
Custom Knife Entrepreneur
