A discussion of dagger scissors

Bodice and Garter scissor-daggers
Historically "bodice" scissors were designed to function as a dagger.  Genuine renaissance examples are close to impossible to find.

Souvenir versions of the same basic design date as late as the early 1900s. Several different designs were made by German a manufacturers, often with mother-of-pearl embellished handles.

A modern costume version is widely available: see --  J. Moseley and Son, London, 1850-190 Steel dagger scissors

I find it hard to know how much dagger scissors, also called bodice scissors, were ever in widespread use.

Improvised Weapons
On an emergency basis, in modern time scissors have been used to fend of a potentially rabid fox.  They also appear regularly in violent crime reports.

Symbolism
In fiction the use of scissors as weapons is associated with a character not being "manly".

Dagger Scissors

Dagger scissors are also called bodice scissors or a whore's dagger.  They were said to serve both a scissors and a lady's self-defense weapon.  However others argue they wee not in serious use and were purely a novelty item.  These were common from the medieval through to the Victorian period.

Examples

• Replica

#31 Modern replica

Maker: Sword and Armory
Model: KE001SL and KE001GD
Materials: Stainless steel blade, metal handle.
Year: modern
Length: 25cm, 10"
Description: As shown. Art scissors in the style of  'dagger' scissors.  These scissors are inspired by a medieval (14th C) design that functioned both as scissors and a dagger and could be used by women in self-defence.  Also called 'bodice scissors'. Available in silver and metal handle.
Value: $10