Hello everyone! I'm quite new to this - not to fencing but to historical fencing and historical weapons. I myself have been fencing sabre quite a long time. Anyway, I live in Europe and since I have no clue where I should look I thought I'd register here and ask if anyone has an idea. I'm looking for a well made dagger with a black handle, any ideas? It shouldn't be too long and in fact I'd prefer a 'long double edged knife' to an actual dagger. The kind people used for all sorts of stuff back then you know... The period would be either renaissance or late middle ages. My budget is about 500 euros. I just don't have a clue where to look, Leon Paul doesn't make anything like that. Thanks for your time!

PS: Not too fond on ordering from the US. Shipping and taxes make it all so complicated, I'd prefer a european maker.

Welcome Anthony!

Check out the Links page for some wonderful places to start your search.

From your description, I would recommend starting with Tod's Stuff. His work is just unbelievable!

I'd recommend Tod's Stuff or Arms and Armour if you want quality...but almost any good smith could make you a reasonably priced good quality dagger to your specifications. The nice thing about daggers is that they aren't as complex, expensive in materials and complicated to make as swords but they can still be well made and elegant for less price in my experience.

Thanks so much, that does seem like a very good option! :D