Tod Cutler – 15th Century Utility and Defense Bollock Dagger

This replica 15th century Bollock Dagger by Tod Cutler recreates examples that were used for both self defense, war and general utility. The blade is crafted from tempered EN45 high carbon steel and has a thick spine on its ricasso which rapidly tapers a third of the way up the blade into a double edged design with a thick diamond cross section. The hilt is fashioned from wood and polished to a fine finish. Included is a sheath of stitched double-layer high quality vegetable tanned leather complete with hanging loops.

Emerging around 1300, the bollock dagger was a quintessential utility knife, serving both domestic and martial purposes. This blade’s design reflects its dual function: the double-edged blade was optimized for combat, while the flat, recessed back catered to practical tasks. Its simplicity, marked by the absence of a guard, underscores its practical, everyday use. Despite its seemingly unusual shape, this style was quite prevalent and is frequently encountered in late 15th-century examples.