Daggers

The European-style quillion dagger is the required “art knife” of the ABS Mastersmith test - these are Dave's.

7″ Quillion Dagger - hand-forged by Dave Ellis, ABS Mastersmith — **7″ Quillion Dagger** 336-layer Damascus; mastodon ivory handle. Owned by Mike Sing. Photo: Knife Magazine.

Mastersmith Quillion Dagger - hand-forged by Dave Ellis, ABS Mastersmith — **Mastersmith Quillion Dagger** Three-bar composite blade - each billet 336 layers: left twist, right twist, random pattern in the center. Twist Damascus ferrule and buttcap; intentionally aged elephant ivory grip. Sold for $1,500. Photo: Weyer of Toledo.

Damascus Quillion Dagger - hand-forged by Dave Ellis, ABS Mastersmith — **Damascus Quillion Dagger** Damascus blade, guard, ferrule and buttcap; fluted mastodon ivory grip. Sold for $1,300. Photo: Weyer of Toledo.

These pieces are in private collections - but Ellis knives do resurface on the market. Interested in owning one? Here's where to look, or browse other makers' work at Exquisite Knives.