Fishing Frenzy

Knives have played a role in human affairs for millennia, dating all the way back to the Stone Age and before. Throughout its long history, the knife has gone through repeated evolutions and refinements, becoming more and more an ideal tool. Today, you'll find knives specifically designed for many different tasks, from the humble butter knife to modern military knives such as those used by the Navy Seals. However, in all of history, few knives have attained the fame (or infamy) as the Bowie knife. What is a Bowie knife?

Regarding blade length, of course, knives can have almost any blade length possible, from miniature penknives to survival knives and those that should probably be classified as short swords. However, Bowie knives have to have a blade of at least six inches in length in order to be considered actual "Bowie" knives. That said, you'll find derivatives with blades far in excess of six inches.

What makes a knife a Bowie knife, though? Most people today will find that only the last version of this famed knife is usually labeled under that particular moniker. Generally, these knives have a blade length of at least six inches, though longer blades are available, as well. Bowie knives also usually have an upper guard, that is bent forward. This was used to catch and deflect an opponent's knife during a fight.

In terms of guard shape, bowie knives are well known for having a double guard (that is, an upper and lower guard). However, the upper guard did not jut straight out, like the lower one. The upper guard is angled outward, toward the tip of the knife. This is a special feature, purportedly created to help the wielder trap an opponent's knife in the case of a fight.

Today, Bowie knives are found throughout the world, but you'll find the widest selection and the most derivatives of these knives in the US. However, carrying such a knife in public might not be a good idea, as many states still have a ban on them.