Hidden, Disguised & Concealed Knives

If you're into knives that don't look like knives, you're in the right place. Hidden knives, also known as disguised knives, are all about blending in. These blades are cleverly tucked away inside everyday items, making them perfect for self-defense or just as cool conversation pieces. At KarateMart.com, we've got a wide range of these stealthy tools, from comb knives to pen knives and everything in between.

The idea behind concealed knives isn't new. In fact, it's been around for centuries. Think back to ancient Rome, where soldiers carried short daggers called "pugio" hidden under their tunics. Fast forward to the 18th and 19th centuries, and you had swordsticks, walking canes with hidden blades, popular among European elites who wanted to stay armed without drawing attention. Even the Scottish sgian-dubh, a small knife worn tucked into the top of a sock, was a discreet way to carry a blade in plain sight.

In the 20th century, especially during World War II, hidden knives became more specialized. The British Special Operations Executive developed various concealed weapons for spies, including knives hidden in everyday objects like shoe heels and belt buckles. This trend continued into the Cold War era, with both Western and Eastern bloc countries developing their own versions of hidden blades for espionage and self-defense.

Today, hidden knives have evolved to fit seamlessly into modern life. You've got your comb knives, which look and function like regular combs but reveal a sharp blade when needed. Pen knives are another popular choice; they resemble ordinary writing instruments but can quickly transform into a functional blade. And then there are credit card knives; thin, compact blades that fold out from a shape just like your standard credit card, making them incredibly easy to carry.

These concealed knives aren't just about stealth; they're about practicality too. Many are designed to be functional in their disguised form. For instance, a pen knife can still be used to write, and a comb knife can still be used to style your hair. This dual functionality makes them ideal for everyday carry, as they don't raise suspicion and can be used for their intended purpose until you need the blade.

But it's not just about practicality; there's an element of history and craftsmanship involved. Many of these hidden knives are inspired by traditional designs and techniques. The sgian-dubh, for example, has its roots in Scottish Highland culture and was originally a hidden weapon carried by men in the 16th and 17th centuries. Similarly, the swordstick has a long history, dating back to the 17th century, when it was used by spies and nobility alike.

At KarateMart.com, we offer a variety of concealed knives to suit different needs and preferences. Whether you're looking for a discreet self-defense tool or a unique collector's item, we've got you covered. Our selection includes comb knives, pen knives, credit card knives, and more, all designed with both functionality and stealth in mind.

So, if you're interested in adding a hidden knife to your collection, check out our selection. With their rich history and practical applications, concealed knives continue to be a popular choice for those who appreciate the blend of form, function, and a bit of mystery.

Are disguised knives legal to carry?

The legality of carrying a disguised knife or concealed knife depends heavily on your state and local laws, and those laws can vary a lot. In some states, owning or carrying a hidden knife is completely legal as long as it's not used with criminal intent. In others, just possessing a concealable knife disguised as something else, like a pen, comb, or belt buckle, could be considered illegal, especially if it's designed to avoid detection.

Most knife laws are written around the concept of concealment and intent. For example, states like Arizona and Texas tend to have more knife-friendly laws, where carrying a disguised knife for utility or self-defense is generally allowed. On the other hand, states like California, New York, and Massachusetts have stricter rules and often ban any knife that is intentionally hidden or disguised as a non-weapon object.

It's also important to know that even if state law allows it, local ordinances (like in specific cities or counties) might not. And if you're thinking of taking a concealed knife into federal buildings, airports, schools, or other restricted areas, it's a definite no, regardless of what it looks like or where you live.

We always recommend doing a quick search of your local knife laws or consulting an attorney if you're unsure. Just because a disguised knife is for sale online doesn't mean it's automatically legal to carry everywhere.

What's the difference between a concealed knife and a disguised knife?

The terms concealed knife and disguised knife are often used interchangeably, but they're not exactly the same thing.

A concealed knife is any knife that is carried in a way that's not visible to the public. It could be hidden inside a waistband, a boot, or tucked into a pocket. The knife itself still looks like a knife; it's just out of sight. Concealed knives include common styles like neck knives, boot knives, or compact folding blades designed for discreet carry.

A disguised knife, on the other hand, goes a step further. It's not just hidden. It's made to look like something completely different. That could mean a blade built into a comb, pen, belt buckle, lipstick container, or even a brush. These are specifically designed to avoid detection by appearing harmless. So while all disguised knives are concealed knives by definition, not all concealed knives are disguised.

This distinction matters legally and practically. Some jurisdictions have stricter rules for disguised knives because they can be seen as deceptive or harder to identify as weapons. But for collectors, survivalists, or people interested in discreet self-defense, disguised knives are appealing because they combine functionality with stealth and creativity.