Bowie knife: America's most iconic knife

History of the bowie knife

The bowie knife is originally from Arkansas, the United States. The knife was designed by James Black in the 19th century for James Bowie, an American pioneer and freemason. James Bowie became famous because of his role in the Texan Revolution and is still considered to be a hero in Texas. The bowie knife really became popular after James Bowie used a large knife during a dual called 'the Sandbar Fight'. Ever since this type of knife is known as the bowie knife.

The bowie knife today

Many current bowie knives are still enhanced with the classic elements that remain true to the way bowie knives were produced in 1900. Materials such as wood, messing, bone and leather, for instance. Nevertheless, we also see that many knife brands, which mostly focus on modern pocket knives, are inspired by this American classic. Especially the bowie-style blade, which is characterized by the upwards facing clip point style tip, is often used by Rick Hinderer Knives and Cold Steel, for example.