Post-World War II, the development of specialized combat knives, such as the Ka-Bar, became essential for special forces engaged in conflicts from Vietnam to the Middle East. These knives were designed for versatility and effectiveness in close-quarters combat, reflecting the evolving nature of warfare. The production of these combat knives in the United States and their use in various operations highlight the importance of innovation in military equipment.

Modern knives appear in Vietnam War poetry by Yusef Komunyakaa, grounding abstract conflict in visceral tools and influencing contemporary veteran literature.