Baselard Dagger – 17-Inch Hand-Forged Medieval Short Sword with Rosewood Handle and Sheath

The Baselard Dagger, known historically as Schwiizerdolch in Swiss-German, is a powerful short sword with roots in the Late Middle Ages, favored throughout Switzerland, Germany, France, and England. Recognized by its characteristic H-shaped or I-shaped hilt, this weapon emerged in the 14th century as a civilian and military sidearm. While once considered a knightly dagger, it quickly became a common blade carried by both soldiers and civilians — and sometimes associated with rebellion, self-defense, and street duels.

This particular model from Everest Forge features a 17-inch hand-forged blade crafted from 5160 high-carbon steel, repurposed from the leaf spring of a truck. The blade is meticulously shaped using traditional forging techniques, then water tempered to ensure durability, resilience, and a well-balanced structure. After tempering, it is sharpened and ready to use, ideal for both collectors and functional use.

The 5.5-inch rosewood handle is crafted to provide an authentic and comfortable grip, echoing the weapon's medieval origins. A custom-fit sheath is included for safe storage and transport.

Historical Context:

The Baselard (also spelled baslard, basilard, or basler) was one of the most iconic sidearms of medieval Europe. By the mid-14th century, it was so widespread that French texts equated it with the word coutel (knife). It played roles both in warfare and urban self-defense — sometimes outlawed due to its association with violence and even mentioned in literary works like Piers Plowman as a fashionable yet threatening accessory.

The dagger's name likely originates from the German "Basler Messer" (Basel knife), with early references in French, Latin, and Middle High German. A notable historical moment includes the killing of Wat Tyler, leader of the 1381 Peasants’ Revolt, by William Walworth using a baselard.

Eventually, this weapon evolved into two distinct Swiss arms: the Schweizerdolch (Swiss dagger) and the Schweizerdegen (Swiss longsword). While the classic baselard fell out of common use by the 16th century, its legacy continues as a symbol of medieval craftsmanship and rebellion.

Key Features:

• Historically Inspired Design: Based on 14th-century Baselard daggers used across medieval Europe.

• Hand-Forged Blade: Made from 5160 high-carbon steel (leaf spring of truck).

• Water Tempered: For superior hardness, flexibility, and edge retention.

• Sharpened and Balanced: Ready to use for bushcraft, reenactment, or display.

• Rosewood Handle: Handcrafted for comfort and medieval authenticity.

• Sheath Included: Durable sheath for protection and easy transport.

• Collectible & Functional: Ideal for historians, collectors, reenactors, and knife users.

Product Specifications:

• Blade Length: 17 inches

• Handle Length: 5.5 inches

• Total Length: 22.5 inches

• Blade Weight: 900 grams

• Blade Material: 5160 High Carbon Steel (Leaf Spring)

• Handle Material: Rosewood

• Sheath: Included
  All measurements are approximate and may vary slightly due to the handcrafted nature of the product.