Again, from my ref. book:
Pg.55
"The very small ones were simply cutlery used at the table or as the basic working tools of a seaman. Larger and more ornate dirks could well have served the same purposes but also acted as an indication of officer status".
It goes on to mention a length of 18 in. (457 mm) making them very substantial weapons.
It also mentions a caution that dirks were also worn by Army Officers and even Merchant Marine Officers.
...and possibly short ones as gambler's weapons.
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