Bollock Dagger – 16th Century

German Bollock Dagger with Leather Sheath, 16th Century

The bollock dagger, also called the kidney dagger, gets its peculiar name from the spherical protuberances on its guard, which give it a distinctly phallic appearance. This type of medieval dagger was used throughout Europe from the late Middle Ages through the Renaissance and beyond, appearing in several variations, including late versions in England (“dudgeon dagger”) and Scotland (“dirk”).

It was a common secondary weapon, accompanying swords or rapiers, especially prized for its sharp point for piercing padded armor, chain mail, or the joints of plate armor in close combat. In addition to its use in battle, it was often a status symbol, ostentatiously displayed by knights and wealthy citizens due to its artistic and ornate designs.

This elegant recreation of a 16th-century German dagger features a diamond-cut EN45 steel blade, a single-piece carved wooden handle, and antiqued brass fittings, including a cross-adorned pommel and a ram’s-head guard. It comes with a tanned leather sheath with brass accents and a belt loop, perfect as a collector’s item, decorative item, or costume accessory.

Key Details:

Material: EN45 (high carbon) steel blade, antiqued brass pommel and guard, wooden handle.

Overall length: 36.5 cm; blade: 22.2 cm.

Weight: approx. 200 g (without sheath), 260 g (with sheath).

The steel is not stainless and may rust slightly, so regular maintenance with a universal oil such as Ballistol is recommended.