Bowie Knives - The History of the Bowie Knife

Bowie knives have a rich and colorful role in American history; they are associated with some of the most epic moments, ranging from the Alamo to the Civil War. Let's separate fact from fiction and discover the history of the bowie knife.

What is a bowie knife?

The bowie is believed to be originally a series of designs created by Jim Bowie over a number of years. The "standard" historical bowie knife can be considered to meet these specs: 

Blade Length: 6-12 inches

Blade width: 1.5-2 inches

Blade thickness: ~1/4 inch

False edge (or sharpened edge) along backside of blade

Large quillon or guard

Jim Bowie

James Bowie was a pioneer and soldier best known for being among the soldiers who died defending the Alamo. There is debate over who actually made the first bowie knife, as well as who actually designed it, and there does not seem to be a definitive answer. It is likely that Jim Bowie was involved in designing it, and it is quite certain that Jim Bowie was the one who made it famous.

What is certain is that Jim Bowie's knife design became popular after the sandbar duel of 1827. Jim Bowie was supporting one of the duelers when he was attacked by the opposition. Despite being shot and stabbed, Jim killed his primary attacker with his knife. After this incident, Jim Bowie became known as one of the best knife fighters in the world, and others began to want copies of his knife.

Modern Times

Currently, the term bowie knife can be used to refer to any large sheath knife. However, true bowie knives are still being made. SOG Knives and Cold Steel Knives are two companies that make several modern bowie knives.