Main Gauche

Main Gauche was a left-handed used to guard while fencing. The main gauche was used in 17th century. The blade of the dagger was straight and was double edged. Some main gauche daggers had prongs sticking out on the sides of the blade and their aim was to catch the opponent' s sword. The grip of the dagger was very short. The guard was triangular and the quillons were long and straight. The guard often featured elaborate designs or engravings.