Knife

The common knife has long been a multi-purpose tool for skinning, cutting, and carving. It also serves its wielder quite well in a fight. Although its cousin, the dagger, has the advantage of versatility in combat situations since it can be used in melee or thrown, the knife wins out in terms of pure cutting power.

According to Vetron's Guide to Weapons and Armour, the knife has a "2" effectiveness rating -- slightly better than the dagger, but making the main gauche a better choice for its defensive capability alone.

History
Knives first appeared in Ultima VI, and were again seen in all main Ultima installments through Ultima VII Part Two. They were not seen used as weaponry after this.