Independently published Bowie Knife Fights, Fighters, and Fighting Techniques

Paul Kirchner has done a commendable job of researching published incidents of Bowie knife use during its heyday in 19th century America. In his book he presents a graphic picture of society in that time, when a man could be killed for accidentally spilling water on another's boots or for just speaking out of turn. More shocking is the fact that these killings were often committed by men who were consequently held in high regard by society for upholding their honor. Despite the book's title, little print is devoted to actual Bowie fighting techniques that were used then but have now faded from memory.

Though the stories do become a little repetitive this book makes you think what kind of people these knifemen were. I may get into a fight and fear a black eye or broken nose while these fighters would be maimed or killed even if they won the fight.The book is not an in depth review of the early development by the Bowie brothers nor is it an in depth review of the fights where Bowie knifes or similar knifes were used. Instead it covers a lot of information in short bursts, which tends to make the read feel repetitive.I was unaware for example that not only did Jim Bowie die at the Alamo supposedly with his Bowie knife in hand and a pile of dead Mexicans around his bed but so did David Crocket with a broken rifle in one hand and a Bowie knife in the other.An interesting book, which will make you wonder at the 'bottle' these fighters had or shock you that such thugs were allowed to get away with murder.

I have enjoyed this book so much as it took us from the beginning of Jim Bowie's career and death in the Alamo and on to the end of the 19th Century. In fact, the author shared with the readers though those who used the big knife and the craftsmen who improved the design and also the men & women who put it into personal use. I appreciated author Paul Kirchner's writing as he discussed those who used the blade in battle and in their own personal wars.If you The Bowie Knife,as I do,and also the history of the times as I do,and also the various personalities who used this blade. Then you will have at your disposal a book that will take you from the early 1800's into the late 20th Century. I found it well written and well illustrated with drawings providedby the author himself.It was for me a wonderful experience and provided me with information and background material on a subject that I dearly love: The Bowie Knife!!A wonderful book and an author who is willing to discuss your thoughts and input on the subject. A job very well done!!!!Thanks Paul, for writing this book!! I gave it five full stars and wished I could have given it more!!!Sincerely,John Pace

This book was so much better than I expected. It is really well written and edited. It has many great stories with lots of information. Also, the information is very well referenced, which is great for following-up or looking for additional info. I highly recommend this book for anyone looking into the history of Bowie knives in American history!

Super fun and interesting read! This is a history book about big knife combat presented through actual period reports, articles and accounts. I loved it! If you are looking for a "how to manual" look else where (though the current student of knife combat will find a lot to work into their practical/historical practice).