The SG2000 started as a long-awaited bayonet for the HK G36 Rifle. Due to the development history of the G36, after the end of the Cold War, the Bundeswehr intended to use the NVA's old Kalashnikov Bayonets. Thus, the G36 ended up only supporting Kalashnikov-Style bayonets. Following reports from former Yugoslavia and Afghanistan a need for a modern Knife able to perform as a Tool, Combat Knife and Bayonet all in one piece of equipment became clear.

Based this requirement, Dietmar Pohl developed the Seitengewehr 2000. The Blade Shape follows the optimized Tanto of the KM 2000. 3.6mm thick Eickhorn Professional Steel provides the required flexibility for extreme combat and bayonet use. The partial serration assists the cutting of tough materials. The hand guard features a small hole, opposite to the barrel hole, for lanyard attachment. The Glass-Reinforced Nylon Handle is electrically insulated. The Sheath system is MOLLE and IdZ compatible.

Variants for NATO-Rifles and G36-Rifles, as well as with or without a wire cutter are available.