The Down Range Forum
Member Section => Defense and Tactics => Topic started by: Ping on March 07, 2009, 12:34:46 PM
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What are some of the thoughts of the different types of knives, fixed, folding, etc. for tactical purposes and what do you believe to be the best? I am sure Michael Janich will have some input. I had personally carried Gerber Mark 1 and 2 along with the Gerber Col. Applegate. Automatics I preferred were Benchmade and Smith and Wesson.
As for peace officers, do any of you feel that it would be more efficient to carry a fixed blade knife on your utility belt or carry a folder that clips into the pocket of your uniform pants?
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A bunch of my LEO buddies all carry the Ka-Bar TDI Law Enforcement model
(https://www.kabar.com/images/1482_large.jpg)
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I carry a Kershaw Blackout, Ken Onion design, black kydex, black blade, assisted opening, no serrations, clipped in my back pocket. Simple, not horribly expensive, takes and keeps an edge. It has not failed me yet.
Specs are:
Blackout: Dark as night, this SpeedSafe fast-opener is a covert must have. A gentle drop-point blade is coated with Titanium Nitride.
Steel - Quality 440A stainless-steel blades with 55-57 Rockwell hardness rating and ti-nitride coating
Handle - Polyamide
Blade - 3 1/4" (8.4 cm)
Closed - 4 1/2" (11.3 cm)
Weight - 3.5 oz
- Heat-treated 410 stainless-steel liners
- Removable pocket clip
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I have come to hate the word "Tactical", any knife is "Tactical" if you use it to cut or stick somebody, "Tactical" is an adverb, not a noun.
Having worked in security for a lot of years and hung out and been friends with a lot of police I would say that a good folder is the way to go with a duty knife. Fixed blades tend to cause considerable bleating among the sheep, even when you are in uniform. While out here in rural Montana people tend to be much more familiar and comfortable with blades, the city-folk would be an issue. I prefer the Kershaw Storm for EDC (at least for when my Bali would tend to upset the masses or the local Gendarmes), it's big and sturdy enough for just about any job but inexpensive enough to lose or break without causing undue stress, and you WILL lose or break your EDC eventually. I remember getting a little baby out of a pick-up after her idiot mom locked her inside, I busted my Swiss army knife getting the beck window open, it sucked but it was what I had and it did the job. The Kershaw is going to be harder it bust and if I do I will only be out $30, likewise I've lost a half-dozen knives in the past 40+ years and a couple of them were moderately hi-dollar blades, feces does tend to occur.
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I have come to hate the word "Tactical", any knife is "Tactical" if you use it to cut or stick somebody, "Tactical" is an adverb, not a noun.
Same here. It's mainly to sell products.
I lean towards Gerber knives. I have several but tend to stick (pun?) with one I got 15 years ago for about $30. It is a pocket clip model with half serrated blade. I think it is an E-Z Out or something like that. I don't even know if it is considered 'tacti-cool' or not, but it stays sharp and will cut hell out of whatever needs cutting. It has taken a heck of a lickin' over the years, including impact in a motorcycle wreck where the part of the handle with the rubber insert broke, but it don't stop it from working. It's always been there when I needed it and is the first thing that goes in my pocket every morning and is the last thing out at bedtime.
Good performance for the cost....IMHO.
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not all are Tactical, this is my little collection so far though
From Left to Right
Damascus Folder Crocodile Bone handle
S&W Homeland Security Folder
Winchester Folder
Damascus Skinner DMP Custom knife
Damascus Knife with Engraved Camel Bone
Kizlyar Hunter knife
Winchester Knife
(http://gallery.me.com/philw/100050/IMG_0211/web.jpg)
(http://gallery.me.com/philw/100050/IMG_0212/web.jpg)
(http://gallery.me.com/philw/100050/IMG_0214/web.jpg)
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The Damascus blades are sweet. I've got the same S&W folding knife ;D
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What are some of the thoughts of the different types of knives, fixed, folding, etc. for tactical purposes and what do you believe to be the best? I am sure Michael Janich will have some input.
I have a lot of input on this topic, which is why I wrote an entire book on it: Street Steel. I'm not trying to hype the book; just explaining that the topic can get very deep very quickly.
To try to provide some useful input, here are some quick thoughts:
"Tactical" is a pretty meaningless term. Usually it means painting something black and doubling the price.
The basic requirements I consider important include:
- Legal to carry in the jurisdictions where you travel
Strong, quality construction
Capable of cutting and puncturing
Easily and conveniently carried
Easily and quickly deployed
Ideally, a design that has a dedicated matching training knife available
Since I travel a lot, I lean toward short (3-3.5-inch blade) folders with plain edges. If I have a design I really like and the blade is too long to be legal, I grind the blade down to a legal length and keep the longer handle.
This is a big topic. I'm happy to discuss specifics, but I really feel that there are so many variables, there is no definitive "best."
Stay safe,
Mike
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(http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u261/PicSnic/Knife.jpg)
This is a Meyerco G-10 440 Bead Blasted Blade G10 Scales Easy One-Hand Opening Reversible Stainless Steel Clip 4'' Honed Blade. Designed by Blackie Collins. You dont need to spend alot on a good knife. You can buy these for under 20.00. I wear it weak side front pocket.
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I like folder I can open and close with one hand that have a clip for strong side front pocket carry. As a lefty I love the Benchmade AXIS based knives (that's the lock). Specifically, I love the 940 series, the Griptilians, and the new Barrages. Even though I can carry up to 3.5" here in Colorado, I prefer the 3" knives as they fit my hand and pocket better.
I don't know if these are Tactical, but I'm comfortable with them and I use them every day. I think that counts for something in an emergency.
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Legal to carry in the jurisdictions where you travel
It seems so much boils down to interpretation of definitions. In Missouri the law states;
571.030. 1. A person commits the crime of unlawful use of weapons if he or she knowingly:
(1) Carries concealed upon or about his or her person a knife, a firearm, a blackjack or any other weapon readily capable of lethal use; or
Then you look up the definition in the law of the term “Knife” and it reads;
(12) "Knife", any dagger, dirk, stiletto, or bladed hand instrument that is readily capable of inflicting serious physical injury or death by cutting or stabbing a person. For purposes of this chapter, "knife" does not include any ordinary pocketknife with no blade more than four inches in length;
I carry a SOG Trident Folder.
(http://www.knifecenter.com/knifecenter/sog/images/tf7xyz.jpg)
Blade is 3 ¾” so I’m good there, but, is it “ordinary”? So it all hinges on one word and someone’s interpretation of the word “ordinary”? To me, years ago I thought of ordinary as my Dad or Grandpa’s “pocket knife”; Old Timer, Uncle Henry, etc. Now days it seems more and more people carry “tactical folders” so now, to me that would be ordinary. Also, is it “concealed”…on mine you can see the clip and a little of the butt sticking out. If anyone asks, who is authorized to ask, what I’m carrying I tell them a pocket knife (not a tactical folder) and then would comply with their orders.
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I used to carry a CRKT M21 and a Buck Strider Tarani as an EDC knife for the last 4 years. Really well made blades, but then a friend of mine gave me a Spyderco USA Native Knife. What an awesome blade!!!
(http://www.derkosmischetodesstrahl.de/pepper/spyII.jpg)
(http://www.derkosmischetodesstrahl.de/pepper/spyIII%20(1).jpg)
Length overall 7" (178 mm) blade length 3 1/8" (80 mm) blade steel CPM-S30V length closed 3 15/16" (100 mm) cutting edge 2 5/8" (67 mm) weight 2.65 oz (75.2 g) hole diameter 15/32" (12 mm) blade thickness 1/8" (3 mm) handle material FRN.
(http://www.derkosmischetodesstrahl.de/pepper/spyIII.jpg)
It's stuck inside the waistband of my pants for the last 12 months and I really don't wanna miss it.
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(http://www.derkosmischetodesstrahl.de/pepper/spyIII.jpg)
It's stuck inside the waistband of my pants for the last 12 months and I really don't wanna miss it.
OOPS !
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I used to carry a CRKT M21 and a Buck Strider Tarani as an EDC knife for the last 4 years. Really well made blades, but then a friend of mine gave me a Spyderco USA Native Knife. What an awesome blade!!!
(http://www.derkosmischetodesstrahl.de/pepper/spyIII.jpg)
It's stuck inside the waistband of my pants for the last 12 months and I really don't wanna miss it.
Urkel - Did I do that?
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I have to confess, I don't know a lot about knives. I've had perfect opportunities to learn more seeing as the local gun shows are put on by GUN and KNIFE associations, but all I can see is the GUNS when I get there.
That said, if I truly am in search of self defense weapons then a very concealable knife should be one my items of choice.
Where should I turn to learn more about this??
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Oob made the comment some time ago that the best knife is the one you work with and one should choose accordingly. I avoid the liner locks and prefer the small fixed blade with kydex sheath. I convert it to iwb but I'll tell you the best tactical tool is a nice pair of sneakers. if you've ever seen deep tissue damage you'll work to avoid the blade.
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...I'll tell you the best tactical tool is a nice pair of sneakers. if you've ever seen deep tissue damage you'll work to avoid the blade.
I would have assumed steel-toed work shoes would be more tactical than sneakers.
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I would have assumed steel-toed work shoes would be more tactical than sneakers.
They great in a fight but their no good for running, distance is your best defense from a knife.
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A Spyderco Yojimbo folder and a Ronon fixed-blade in an neck holster, both designed by Mr. Janich.
Remember, guns are just guns, but knives are important!
Michael B
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A Spyderco Yojimbo folder and a Ronon fixed-blade in an neck holster, both designed by Mr. Janich.
Remember, guns are just guns, but knives are important!
Michael B
how dose a Neck Holster work
I have never heard of that I just have mine on a pocket
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SOG Flash-1 assiisted opening. Good sharp blade very quick opening is my blade of choice
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MSFJfFmtSWI
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Oob made the comment some time ago that the best knife is the one you work with and one should choose accordingly. I avoid the liner locks and prefer the small fixed blade with kydex sheath. I convert it to iwb but I'll tell you the best tactical tool is a nice pair of sneakers. if you've ever seen deep tissue damage you'll work to avoid the blade.
Truer words were never spoken. Rule 1) Don't Die, Rule 2) Don't Fight If You Can Run, Rule 3) If You Can't Bring A Gun To A Knife Fight, Stay The Hell Away From The Knife Fight, Rule 4) Know Your Limitations. It doesn't hurt my ego at all to say with certaintey that if I get into a knife fight,I will die bloody and embarassed. I don't think I'm alone in this. For me knives are tools, not weapons.
fightingquaker13
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It seems so much boils down to interpretation of definitions. In Missouri the law states;
571.030. 1. A person commits the crime of unlawful use of weapons if he or she knowingly:
(1) Carries concealed upon or about his or her person a knife, a firearm, a blackjack or any other weapon readily capable of lethal use; or
In Missouri, is the knife concealed if it is clipped on to the pocket?
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Okay...you guys have inspired me to upgrade (slightly) my EDC knife. I have carried a Gerber Paraframe for who-knows-how-long, and it has served me well. But, there are a couple things about it I don't like. When I bought it, I thought I would like the serrated blade, but not for what I use it for 90% of the time...and it doesn't seem to hold an edge for very long (could be the amount of abuse I put it through). But, for under $20 at Wally World...you couldn't ask for much more.
So...I just ordered a Ken Onion designed Kershaw (just a cheap one). I went with the Black Vapor.
(http://www.outdoorpros.com/images/prod/5/Kershaw-1650BLK-rw-14753-5397.jpg)
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how dose a Neck Holster work
I have never heard of that I just have mine on a pocket
Cord/chain goes around your neck and then threads through holes in the bottom of the sheath. Knife hangs blade up in the sheath under your shirt. You reach up from the bottom and pull it out. Almost all neck knives are small fixed blades, with a blade length less than 4". Almost all sheaths retain their knives via friction, but a VERY small percentage use magnets (e.g. Bud Nealy Escort).
As with everything, there's an exception to every rule: I have a neck knife sheath for a Spyderco Endura Wave that uses the wave to pop the knife open as it's drawn from the sheath. It came on a ball chain. My Spyderco Ronin has a channel at the bottom of the sheath for the chain to pass through. This is a flatter solution. It has a ball chain inside a shoelace for the chain. The ball chain will break in an emergency, which is why people like it, and the shoelace sheath makes it black and harder to see as well as more comfortable.
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I've carried a Cold Steel neck knife with a Tanto blade very often.
Nice knife....very sharp and holds and edge well.
This one has a different blade configuration than the tanto....
http://www.coldsteel.com/k4neckknife.html
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A trainer gave me a SOG Pentagon Elite I for Christmas present many years ago. I too carry it cliped under my belt.
http://sogknives.com/store/PE14.html
I will say the Cold Steel Scimitar scares the crap out of me.
Haviing been cut once on wrist by a broken beer bottle, veins, tendons, nerves and artery, month in a cast and even longer doing rehab, anyone with a knife in their hand gets targeting lock.
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just added to the Family today ;D ;D ;D
(http://gallery.mac.com/philw/100050/IMG_0364/web.jpg)
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I will say the Cold Steel Scimitar scares the crap out of me.
Haviing been cut once on wrist by a broken beer bottle, veins, tendons, nerves and artery, month in a cast and even longer doing rehab, anyone with a knife in their hand gets targeting lock.
a couple of them are next on my to get list ;D
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just added to the Family today ;D ;D ;D
(http://gallery.mac.com/philw/100050/IMG_0364/web.jpg)
both of those would be a felony in CA.
its one of those laws that was put on the books back in the gold rush days. out of fear of the chinese. numchucks are the same.
you can walk around with a sword on your belt, but take some rope and tie it too two sticks= felony. ( not joking about the sowrd.) oddly enought you can have a folding knife of any length concealed, but you can not conceal a fixed blade.
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both of those would be a felony in CA.
its one of those laws that was put on the books back in the gold rush days. out of fear of the chinese. numchucks are the same.
you can walk around with a sword on your belt, but take some rope and tie it too two sticks= felony. ( not joking about the sowrd.) oddly enought you can have a folding knife of any length concealed, but you can not conceal a fixed blade.
don't worry mate they are classed as a Prohibited weapon over here,
for me to have it, I have to have one ( collecting ) I need to have a register book listing my collection
if I was to have them on me while out on the street and found with it by the police I will get convicted of being in possession of a Prohibited weapon yet I am allowed to have it stored at home go figure
that is the same for numchucks, flick knives, Kubatan, Extendible batons so I am planning on getting all hehe ;)
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don't worry mate they are classed as a Prohibited weapon over here,
for me to have it, I have to have one ( collecting ) I need to have a register book listing my collection
if I was to have them on me while out on the street and found with it by the police I will get convicted of being in possession of a Prohibited weapon yet I am allowed to have it stored at home go figure
that is the same for numchucks, flick knives, Kubatan, Extendible batons so I am planning on getting all hehe ;)
No offense Phil, but if you can't carry it, why own it? If someone enters your home I assume you'll go for that Taurus rather than a knife. On the street you would be better off with a folder, pepper spray, or a good stout shileaghleagh (I mean walking stick) ;D all of which I presume are legal. Rememember that SD doesn't end when the last BG hits the floor, it just moves on to phase two, keeping your ass out of jail. An illegal weapon is no one's friend.Just my $.02.
FQ13
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For years now I've carried a Benchmade 520 " Presidio"
Interesting story, 2008 SHOT show I was talking with the Benchmade guys, and they told me that I had one of the OOPS knives that made it out the door with the wrong blade cut.
The knife is discontinued now, but when it was made it should have a Sabre grind blade (bevel on both sides example #3) and mine has a chisel grind (bevel on one side example #4 )
Benchmade said "retire it - it's a rare knife that makes it out incorrect" But I love it so much that I just can't get my self to let it go.
My only issue is the reliefs in the scales, they are cut Aluminum and they grip like a mad crocodile in my hand, but inserting and removing from my pants is dismal, it's like a saw blade going in and out and destroys the lip of my pockets in less than 6 - 9 months.
The price you pay for the knife you love.
(http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/4/4c/Ground_blade_shapes.png/160px-Ground_blade_shapes.png)
(https://dstactical.com/images/525.jpg)
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No offense Phil, but if you can't carry it, why own it? If someone enters your home I assume you'll go for that Taurus rather than a knife. On the street you would be better off with a folder, pepper spray, or a good stout shileaghleagh (I mean walking stick) ;D all of which I presume are legal. Rememember that SD doesn't end when the last BG hits the floor, it just moves on to phase two, keeping your ass out of jail. An illegal weapon is no one's friend.Just my $.02.
FQ13
caus I wanted one ;D ;D
it is for my collection I would like to go for the Taurus however with how well it is locked away that makes it hard and over here just carrying a knife can get you in the crap unless you can justify why and don't even think about saying self defense
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caus I wanted one ;D ;D
it is for my collection I would like to go for the Taurus however with how well it is locked away that makes it hard and over here just carrying a knife can get you in the crap unless you can justify why and don't even think about saying self defense
But you were just cleaning it and left it on the night stand when you fell asleep, yeah? ;D
FQ13
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Blackout: Dark as night, this SpeedSafe fast-opener is a covert must have. A gentle drop-point blade is coated with Titanium Nitride.
Steel - Quality 440A stainless-steel blades with 55-57 Rockwell hardness rating and ti-nitride coating
Handle - Polyamide
Blade - 3 1/4" (8.4 cm)
Closed - 4 1/2" (11.3 cm)
Weight - 3.5 oz
- Heat-treated 410 stainless-steel liners
- Removable pocket clip
I like your choice Path. Love Kershaws, Especially Ken Onion Speed safes. I used to carry my Blackout most of the time but recently switched to a Shallot. I like how thin the Shallot is and it is slightly larger with a 3 and 1/2 inch blade. Steel is Sandvik 13C26 stainless and keeps an edge longer than my Blackout did. Downside is that the Blackout has a better grip. I have about 20 Kershaws including all of the KO damascus models. I have at least another 50 or so of other manufacturers.
I know I have a little problem.
My carry folder is almost always a Kershaw. Also have Benchmades, Bokers, Spydercos, Sogs, Weidmansheils, some customs and a few other brands.
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leek or scalon is my every day knife.
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Smith and Wesson SWAT Automatic is my everyday knife. Though I like the new Blade Tech knife I just got. A little more compact and legal.
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leek or scalon is my every day knife.
Both are awesome. I like the Leek a little better. Used to carry a leek quite a bit as well before the Shallot was released.
Can't believe that BS from Customs wanting to reclassify assisted openers as switchblades.
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SOG Vision.. Expensive Knife but it is very tough. I have never had a tougher knife.
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Lost my Benchmade Automatic in the crapper a few years ago. That knife was one of the best knives I have ever owned. Got it for $30 off a guy who won it on a tip board. Can see myself paying $200 plus on another one. Still bummed about that loss.
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Lost my Benchmade Automatic in the crapper a few years ago. That knife was one of the best knives I have ever owned. Got it for $30 off a guy who won it on a tip board. Can see myself paying $200 plus on another one. Still bummed about that loss.
Bummer, I'm sorry that you lost such a great a knife. I have two Benchmade autos, both with Benchmade's 154cm stainless blades. The 154cm is great steel with very good edge retention. One is the Mel Pardue auto and the other is the small, stainless version of the Benchmite auto. The Benchmite has a great Celtic knot pattern in the scales. As autos, I just get to use them at home. I bought them primarily to add to my collection.
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I carry a Spyderco Endura 4 with a plain edge. Stainless steal handle and VG-10 blade steal. Holds an edge like nothing else I've got. Little on the large size but it fits my mitts just right. My wife's Grandpa calls it an Armageddon knife, because it will last through the end of the world.
http://www.spyderco.com/catalog/details.php?product=211
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not all are Tactical, this is my little collection so far though
From Left to Right
Damascus Folder Crocodile Bone handle
S&W Homeland Security Folder
Winchester Folder
Damascus Skinner DMP Custom knife
Damascus Knife with Engraved Camel Bone
Kizlyar Hunter knife
Winchester Knife
(http://gallery.me.com/philw/100050/IMG_0211/web.jpg)
(http://gallery.me.com/philw/100050/IMG_0212/web.jpg)
(http://gallery.me.com/philw/100050/IMG_0214/web.jpg)
Can you show us a closeup of the handle on the Damascus bladed knife?
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Can you show us a closeup of the handle on the Damascus bladed knife?
yea Mate
I will take them with the good camera
they were taken with the iPhone
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http://www.survival-gear-guide.com/best-survival-knife.html
"The Name "KA-BAR" allegedly comes from a letter sent to the manufacturer from a trapper, after he killed a bear with his KA-BAR. Supposedly the guy wasnt the most literate, and all that was legible in the letter was "K A BAR". "
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This is my bunch nothing to wild though. :D
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I want to preface my comment with saying that I am not a knife expert, don't have very much training in the use of knives other than that of utility, and I select my knives based on what I feel makes sense, how I plan on using said blade and local juristiction.
Because of a tight company policy my duty knife is a plain S&W 1st generation Swat knife. They don't even make it anymore and I am surpised, it is an ok utility knife with a half decent blade. I personally would not rely on it for any type of weapon use, I feel the small 3inch blade and design of the handle just don't make for a fighting knife.
My carry knife is a CRKT M16-14 Zytel Desert Special Forces tanto. (mouth full :P)
https://www.shopatron.com/product/part_number=M16-14ZSF/638.0
The knife has a decent Aus-8 blade that really holds an edge well, the "auto locks" are a nice feature to have and they do positively keep that blade out. The blade has two extrusions that act like a pomel while the knife is open keeping your hand away from the blade and giving the user better control and as an added bonus I carry it tip down and if I pull up and rearward it opens the knife almost like the "wave" feature on the Emerson knives. If I don't want to make a scene I can pull the knife out of my pocket and open the blade with one hand. You can place the clip in any position you like for whatever reason you have and the hardware provided is well made.
So there you have it.
I'm not Larry Potterfield but thats the way it is.
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As a lefty, I HATE auto-lawks. I've also never had a liner lock close on me when I didn't want it to.
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Does anyone have any experience with Karambits?
I'm currently a medical student and my state laws prohibit me from taking my carry weapon to school or the hospital. This is a problem because currently don't have a way to protect myself when walking from the library or hospital at night. Karambits seem to be solely devoted to defense situations. Emerson makes the flagship model, but there are cheaper alternatives available.
http://www.emersonknives.com/karambitinfo.htm
I'm going to start Krav Maga defense training in August hoping to get exposed to hand to hand gun and knife defense techniques, but I want to select a knife before I start so that I can be getting used to it during training. If anybody has any experience with these please let me know.
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Does anyone have any experience with Karambits?
I'm currently a medical student and my state laws prohibit me from taking my carry weapon to school or the hospital. This is a problem because currently don't have a way to protect myself when walking from the library or hospital at night. Karambits seem to be solely devoted to defense situations. Emerson makes the flagship model, but there are cheaper alternatives available.
http://www.emersonknives.com/karambitinfo.htm
I'm going to start Krav Maga defense training in August hoping to get exposed to hand to hand gun and knife defense techniques, but I want to select a knife before I start so that I can be getting used to it during training. If anybody has any experience with these please let me know.
Welcome Doc,
Head on over to the to the Down Range Cafe and the New Members Thread, you'll get a proper welcome there.
Krav Magan training and medical school. You must be a great multi-tasker.
That should help you during those slow, relaxed, and short days as a resident. ;D
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how would you go about learning to throw a knife. i have tried with an old S&W folder but it always just seems to bounce around. i know how it travels on a strait line on the point of balance but i was wondering if there was a trick to doing it.
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For me Michael Janich pretty much summed up my general criteria/expectations. As he mentioned, ideally the design has a matching trainer/drone, which is critical if you expect be proficient with your tool from drawing, deploying to usage be it cutting or impact. I am especially critical on handle length and shape of the knife butt since my we must be aware of the force continuum and that cutting is not always an option and may need to use the tool for impact rather than cutting.
Like firearms, no single knife will satisfy everyone’s requirements. Several knives that work well for me are Emerson Commander, Benchmade Griptilian and Bram Frank’s Gunting/LLC. Ergonomically the LLC/Gunting and Emerson full size Commander work well for my hand and carry method.
LLC/Gunting
(http://kevininstructor.home.comcast.net/~kevininstructor/knifeImages/LLC_Set.jpg)
Emerson Commander (Mini live, full size trainer)
(http://kevininstructor.home.comcast.net/~kevininstructor/knifeImages/EmersonMiniCommander.jpg)
Benchmade Griptilian
(http://kevininstructor.home.comcast.net/~kevininstructor/knifeImages/Griptilian.jpg)
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Welcome Kevin.
Drop by the member intro thread and tell us a little about yerself!
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Welcome Kevin.
Drop by the member intro thread and tell us a little about yerself!
Thanks for the welcome, will do an intro as suggested.
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I did purchase the Practical Blade Defense DVD:
http://www.icestore.us/servlet/the-32/DVD09-dsh-PBD-%22Practical-Blade-Defense%22/Detail,
with Michael Janich and the information in it is second to none in my opinion.
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I did purchase the Practical Blade Defense DVD:
http://www.icestore.us/servlet/the-32/DVD09-dsh-PBD-%22Practical-Blade-Defense%22/Detail,
with Michael Janich and the information in it is second to none in my opinion.
[/quot
I agree.... Great stuff.
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I usually carry a CRKT Crawford/Kaspar folder (now discontinued :'( ) IWB. Great knife, and can make for a good fistload/impact weapon when folded.
I'm considering adding a CRKT ZillaTool to my EDC. The pliers could be handy....as a tool or an impact weapon... 8)
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As a lefty, I HATE auto-lawks. I've also never had a liner lock close on me when I didn't want it to.
I have.
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I have.
A good, brand-name knife?
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I really like my spyderco Yojimbo.
It's quick to deploy and man...does it even cut..
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I carry a Myerco 2.5" or a 3.5 " Gerber Gator which I have two of. Then I have three Swiss army knives. Under my bed is a 13.5" Kukuri knife that has been modified and sharp enough to shave with. Now that is a tactical knife.
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i carry a S&W 3" IWB
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i carry a S&W 3" IWB
How does the saying go? Don't bring a knife to a gun fight. I also say don't bring a knife to a knife fight.
As far as I'm concerned if someone pulls a knife on me that constitutes a threat on my life and I have the right to shoot.
I do carry a swiss army knife but not for defensive purposes.
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course i also carry my sig but it is good to be versatile.
this is just for general purpose and bar fights. ;)
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How does the saying go? Don't bring a knife to a gun fight. I also say don't bring a knife to a knife fight.
As far as I'm concerned if someone pulls a knife on me that constitutes a threat on my life and I have the right to shoot.
I do carry a swiss army knife but not for defensive purposes.
Same here, I never had any use for them (SAK ) until I got one, now it's like American express or my pistol, never leave home without it.
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I'm renewing my subscription tommarow!!!
http://www.outdoorlife.com/photos/gallery/survival/2008/08/big-ass-knives-part-one
(http://www.outdoorlife.com/files/imagecache/photo-gallery/legacy/outdoorlife/2.jpg)
Just keep clicking on "Next"!
Then scroll down to the bottom and check out Fish N Chix!!!
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Check with Shooter32, Badgersmilk. I think you are over qualified with that knife/bowie?machete!!!!!!!!!!! ;D
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This is my "tactical".
I lost my first one so my wife just got me a replacement for my birthday as she knew it was a favorite.
a great little knife when you travel light.
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I carry a Kershaw Packrat with a partially serrated edge as my EDC:
http://www.kershawknives.com/productdetails.php?id=486&brand=kershaw (http://www.kershawknives.com/productdetails.php?id=486&brand=kershaw)
The Packrat deploys quickly, is reasonably light, wickedly sharp, and carries easily in my pocket. It has the added advantage of not looking very "tactical" so it won't alarm the natives but will get the job done if the excrement hits the fan. ;)
"Courage is being scared to death - but saddling up anyway" - John Wayne
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Lost my bucklite at a Nine Inch Nails/Marylin Manson Concert at Ball State University in Muncie, Indiana around 1994 david86440. I have missed that knife ever since. Used to carry it on my keychain. I could have skinned a deer with that pocket knife and got it while I was in the Air Force at Aviano Air Base, Italy. I miss that little knife!!!!
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everyday I carry a Benchmade 770
for a sheath knife I prefer this little gem from http://etowahedgeandtool.com (http://etowahedgeandtool.com)
(http://yankeefist.net/PICTS/ivory.jpg)
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nice sharp there, looks like a nice thrower too.
head on over to the new member intro and tell us bout yourself.
http://www.downrange.tv/forum/index.php?topic=19.0 (http://www.downrange.tv/forum/index.php?topic=19.0)
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If I ever have $200 to spend on a knife this guy is getting it.
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Now that is a slicer or dicer that would prefer yankeefist!!!!!!
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A good, brand-name knife?
Gerber.
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One of my all-time "tactical" folder favorites is my Spyderco Yojimbo.
I tried not to like it, I really did, but it grew on me.
It's shorter than legally permissible, but still deadly and quick, and yes, its great for opening boxes too. ;D
Recently, Ive been using it for dangerous things like cutting cardboard and plastic sheeting for a jaycee haunted house.
The only problem I see is it is almost impossible to close it one-handed due to the location of the lock.
The knife is no longer a production item, but I encourage people to seek them out.
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Sounds interesting L.E. Keeney. I do like Spyderco products.
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My favorites right now are:
Spyderco Military -This is my everyday carry pocket knife. It is a bit on the large side but I find I have no problems doing the little things that sometimes require a smaller blade. It is incredibly light of its size and great grips. I have it in Safety Orange and find that people view more as a tool and dont take a step back when I pull it out to use instead of the many frightened looks I used to get pulling out my All Black Kershaw Blur.
I am not a believer that one knife is the "do it all knife" and find when I out in eastern washington at my cabin a fixed blade knife is a must. From gutting a caught fish and getting it ready to cook over the open campfire by the Columbia River, to just playing with sticks and whittling a point at the end I think a fix blade is more suitable. If it can do these things I am sure I would do great as a tactical fixed blade. The only thing that would need to be modified is the sheath, but you can get those, I am sure, from a bunch of places.
I recently have fallen in love with my SOG Bowie 2.0. It is a six inch blade and is modeled after the original SOG knife used in Vietnam. Unlike its bigger brother SOG Super Bowie I find the blade more controllable and it is actually built to the original specs that Ben Baker designed for the SOG and other CISO operators. I was reluctant to use it at first cause of its beauty, but I found out quick it was made to be used. It re-sharpens easily and holds an edge very well.
I use an array of other knives at times also. Kershaw Whirlwind and a Ka-Bar of course are a couple others that I like. Gerber LMF II is really a good all around knife as well.
Those are my favorites right now. I really like reading about what everyone else enjoys
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My favorites right now are:
Spyderco Military -This is my everyday carry pocket knife. It is a bit on the large side but I find I have no problems doing the little things that sometimes require a smaller blade. It is incredibly light of its size and great grips. I have it in Safety Orange and find that people view more as a tool and dont take a step back when I pull it out to use instead of the many frightened looks I used to get pulling out my All Black Kershaw Blur.
Spyderco just released a run of lleft handed Military. I'd never aquired one due to being a lefty, and the knife being a liner lock. The lefty is in my pocket today. It does seem a bit big, mainly the handle to blade ratio. Still, it's doing everything I've asked of it, and the handle hasn't poked me through my pocket (a normal advantage of tip down carry).
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I've been thinking about knives a lot recently and I have several fixed blades which I use for gralloching deer that I'm sure would come through in a 'tactical' clutch.
My everyday folder is a Griptilian which seems to work & carry OK - although it's taking a little getting used to as my previous folder carried 'tip down' and I find myself unable to re-clip speedily :-[
I recently bought a Cold Steel SRK in Carbon V on Ebay that came with a great aftermarket heavy Kydex sheath that was to be my 'tactical' fixed blade but I discovered that it was 1/2" too long to keep the TX State Fuzz happy - the legal limit here being 5.5".
I was, and still could be, thinking about replacing it with an Ontario Afghan or RAT5, maybe a Seal Pup to carry until TEOTWAWKI, when I assume all rules will be 'off', but I read Michael Janich's comments on the first page of this thread where he wrote about shortening a blade. This had not occurred to me until now, to whom would one entrust a job like that to ensure retention of edge and temper?
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I've been thinking about knives a lot recently and I have several fixed blades which I use for gralloching deer that I'm sure would come through in a 'tactical' clutch.
Gralloching sounds so much better than gutting! Gonna have to remember this.
The RAT knives have very few detractors, and the Afghan seems to be Ontario trying to do a RAT since their association with RAT ended. I'm not saying it's a bad knife.
Oh! Remember you can by a RAT from either Ontario in D2 or in 1095 High Carbon Steel (and manufacture) by RAT themselves. Neither steel is stainless.
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Hey TAB, what are you doing with a Pix of my honey?
But to the point: My most used carry is a Benchmade Elishewitz with ATS-34 Steel with serrated -- hard stuff but will hold an edge for a very long time.
Clip, yea. Funky tanto blade, yea. Can cut deep and retrieve it from the mark, you betcha!
Did you know that if you cut deep just right, one get's very little leaking of the red stuff.
As Michael Enchanis once told me (Ranger Mentor), "what is the last thing that a sentry hears -- gurgling".
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My son just picked up a Livesay New Woo at a garage sale for $2.00.
http://www.newtlivesayknives.com/KNIFE_WOO-NEW.htm
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My son just picked up a Livesay New Woo at a garage sale for $2.00.
http://www.newtlivesayknives.com/KNIFE_WOO-NEW.htm
great buy from the boy...............Something about apples and trees falling..... ;D
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My son just picked up a Livesay New Woo at a garage sale for $2.00.
http://www.newtlivesayknives.com/KNIFE_WOO-NEW.htm
$2.00 :o that's a steal - nice find Jr.
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A friend of mine found a Kershaw Whirlwind laying in the street once. Still has it as far as I know.
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A friend of mine found a Kershaw Whirlwind laying in the street once. Still has it as far as I know.
Cool find.......I never get lucky....I was always the one that lost the knife. ;D
A good friend and I was spreading and leveling some dirt that had been brought into our local college's rodeo arena many years back and he noticed something shiny in one of the piles of dirt. He got off the tractor and picked it up and it was a Spyderco lock back. He cleaned the crud out with carb cleaner and used it for many years.
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Cool find.......I never get lucky....I was always the one that lost the knife......
Yeah I was so jealous of that knife, I went to the gun show and bought a 3 dollar copy of it. LOL
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http://ep.yimg.com/ca/I/policestuff_2077_281791600
this is the new addition to my knife family, I could not figure out how to post a pic, but the link should be good.
That is not my pic, just the same knife.
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I have carried a CRKT(Columbia River Knife and Tool) M21-04 strait edge for a couple of years now. I love this knife! !! Easy to deploy with one hand. Easy to close with one hand, with a little practice(auto-lawks, linearlock). AUS8 blade,Not that expensive, A great tool. Never leave home without it! ;D
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I have carried a CRKT(Columbia River Knife and Tool) M21-04 strait edge for a couple of years now. I love this knife! !!
Please provide link or pic. Thank you.
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I have carried a CRKT(Columbia River Knife and Tool) M21-04 strait edge for a couple of years now. I love this knife! !! Easy to deploy with one hand. Easy to close with one hand, with a little practice(auto-lawks, linearlock). AUS8 blade,Not that expensive, A great tool. Never leave home without it! ;D
\
IF That's the large M-21, then I have one in my briefcase right now.
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It's the lrg one ;D sorry no pics
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I usually have CRKT M16 on me. I lost one and went out and bought another. I'm still ahead of the game since the first one was free. ;D
http://www.crkt.com/cgi-bin/crkt.pl
Top is m21, bottom is m16
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Nice looking sharps. Still in the market for a new one and Blackhawk still has models that I desire. ;)
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I picked up a SOG Seal Pup over the summer. It is my "woods" knife.
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Please provide link or pic. Thank you.
The M21-04 is a good blade but quit heavy and big for an EDC blade. Here is a pic from both sides.
(http://www.derkosmischetodesstrahl.de/pepper/drtv/CIMG1085.jpg)
(http://www.derkosmischetodesstrahl.de/pepper/drtv/CIMG1086.jpg)
I used to carry a Spyderco Nativ as an EDC blade but now I switched to a Spyderco D'Allara for cutting tasks...
(http://www.derkosmischetodesstrahl.de/pepper/spyder2.jpg)
...plus I carry a Ka-Bar TDI for selfdefence.
(http://www.derkosmischetodesstrahl.de/pepper/drtv/CIMG1087.jpg)
(http://www.derkosmischetodesstrahl.de/pepper/drtv/CIMG1091.jpg)
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http://www.brassknucklescompany.com/CRE/1918-trench-knife-p-304.html
What's not to love?!?
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http://www.brassknucklescompany.com/CRE/1918-trench-knife-p-304.html
What's not to love?!?
There was a shot on HBO that the kid bad a trench knife with knuckles... i think it was "Carnival" or something like that.
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I think the M21 is about the perfect CRKT folder. They are too much in love with tantos.
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AGREE ;D
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CRKT ?
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Columbia River Knife and Tool = CRKT
DUH!!!
You probably thought they were talkin bout crickets.
;D
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Columbia River Knife and Tool = CRKT
DUH!!!
You probably thought they were talkin bout crickets.
;D
YEP! ;D
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One thing I rarely see discussed are the benefits of a straight spine and handle as opposed to one with a blade and handle that have a drop in them. I use knives for a living and find that the straight blade gives power while the droped blade gives speed. I'd take a knife with a straight topside and a slight drop at the point anyday over a knife that kinda looks like a banana.
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New toy:
BM-14250S, Benchmade HK, Axis Folder, Cast Handle, Tanto Point, Combo Edge
http://www.knifedealsplus.com/media/benchmade/BM14250S.jpg
This Benchmade HK knife is the Benchmade HK Axis Folder that features a 3.40 in. 154CM steel blade and a 4.79 in. cast aluminum handle. Comes complete with a pocket clip.
Specifications
* Overall Length (inches): 8.19
* Blade Length (inches): 3.40
* Blade Material: 154CM
* Blade Detail: Combo Edge
* Handle Material: Aluminum
* Lock Style: Axis Lock
* Carry System: Pocket Clip
* Special Features: -
I think this is going to be my EDC for awhile. VERY HAPPY. The only concern is the possible sharping issue of rounding the tanto edge.
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New toy:
BM-14250S, Benchmade HK, Axis Folder, Cast Handle, Tanto Point, Combo Edge
What did you like about the tainto vs the drop point 14200?
I like the rubber handles- grippy, but not too grippy that you can't get it out of your pocket. I had the G10 handled version as an EDC for a while.
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It was a gift, so I was without a choice. I have grown fond of the Tanto's Very Fine point very quickly. The axis lock is remarkably strong and fast to deploy, it is going to be hard to own another EDC without the AXIS system . I have had a liner lock fail in the past resulting in a triggerfinger scar. Hope this helps.
tex
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Has anyone have any thoughts on the "Wilson Cop Tool"?
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Has anyone have any thoughts on the "Wilson Cop Tool"?
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Emerson knives. The one with the pocket "hook". hook grabs on your pocket when you draw the knife and it opens without having to manipulate any levers or buttons. fastest i have seen, and lets face it - pushing buttons and the like is a fine motor movement that will take extra time. sorry if this was already said. just found this thread and I didn't read them all.
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I carry a folding S&W Swat on my hip with a serrated blade,and bought my wife a S&W 24/7 folder because its small enough to fit in her purse and doesn't draw any attention to her carrying it!
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This is such a great topic!
I got a question for the experts. When does knife steel construcion enter the decision on purchase?
Is AUS8 a min and VG-10 the gold standard? Would you sacrifice blade quality for benificial features?
I know that heat treatment can play a bigger part in blade quality, however as a customer you cannot possibly know who heat treats their steel the best. For that matter, does it cost more to properly heat treat a blade or is it the raw material that drives cost?
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This is such a great topic!
I got a question for the experts. When does knife steel construcion enter the decision on purchase?
Is AUS8 a min and VG-10 the gold standard? Would you sacrifice blade quality for benificial features?
I know that heat treatment can play a bigger part in blade quality, however as a customer you cannot possibly know who heat treats their steel the best. For that matter, does it cost more to properly heat treat a blade or is it the raw material that drives cost?
In my opinion, when it comes to personal defense knives, steel “quality” isn’t as significant as blade design, edge geometry, and corrosion resistance.
I view a personal defense knife as a dedicated tool and don’t use mine for daily chores. As Murphy would have it, I would have to defend myself immediately after dulling and gunking up my knife on some demanding chore. To avoid that, I use a different knife for utility purposes.
By keeping your defensive knife “pristine,” you know that it will be at peak performance if you need it. You also know that in the frantic few seconds that you might have to use it, your attacker will not be able to tell the difference between AUS8 and 154CM. Proper edge geometry and blade shape are much more important. Since your knife will be carried close o your body and carried constantly, corrosion resistance is also important.
From a utility perspective—especially if you do a lot of repetitive cutting of the same materials (i.e. cardboard)—you can quantify the performance of different steels, provided all other aspects of the blade design remain constant. Some people who test knives like to take this to extremes, cutting rope until the edge is dulled. If that’s your thing, enjoy. I don’t seem to have that much free time.
Steel choice is also more important for “survival” knives, since the knife may have to perform for an extended period of hard use before it can be sharpened. However, some users actually prefer less exotic steels for this purpose because they can be sharpened more easily using improvised means.
As with most knife-related things, personal preference and your own individual skill level play an important role in your choice. As long as your choice is well reasoned, reliable, and works consistently with your skill set, it works.
I hope this helps.
Stay safe,
Mike
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I think the more important questions which needs an expert's advice for are:
-What does the expert carry and why?
-Where does he carry/place on body and why?
-Why does he choose the brand of knives? Really.
-Why choose plain or serrated for Personal Defense?
-Why choose a lock back, liner or (my favorite) axis lock system?
-Why should I have a lanyard for a pocket clip knife?
-What profile should I choose for defensive usage?
-Should I choose a full grind or saber, and why?
-Should it be hollow ground and the benefits or negatives of this?
-Should there be multiple folders or mixture of folder and fixed on person?
-Should there be tip up or down for defensive usage? (I have always preferred up)
-Should we choose tactical or go under the radar?
-Should your hard-use knife be a utility razor?
-When does a neck knife have a place?
-What is the minimum and maximum blade length recommended for EDC of PD?
-What is opinion of assisted openers?
-What is opinion of factory vs. custom for EDC?
-What is opinion of DVD vs. Dojo training?
-What is opinion of edge vs. gun for ambush defense while a foot?
Now I know some of these questions have been answered to a degree at other posts but if anyone can think of a point of questioning I am overlooking I would appreciate the heads up.
Thank you,
tex
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I have more question all ready.
-What is the proper carry for deployment of you EDC blade when carrying a gun strong side?
-Why do we not train deployment of closed knife during verbal deescalation drills?
-Why are reinforced strikes with the closed knife in hand not taught more in training?
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Last one for this morning promise:
-How important is it to have metal liners for stabbing rigidity though clothing and bone strikes?
.
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I carry a Kershaw Ken onion assist open folder as my daily knife. It is blacked out completely with a partially serrated edge, it holds an edge better than any of my other knives by far. It is quick to open and comfortable in my hand and comforting in my pocket. I have CRKT knives, buck crosslocks, spydercos etc....but I really like the kershaws.
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I think the more important questions which needs an expert's advice for are:
-What does the expert carry and why?
-Where does he carry/place on body and why?
-Why does he choose the brand of knives? Really.
-Why choose plain or serrated for Personal Defense?
-Why choose a lock back, liner or (my favorite) axis lock system?
-Why should I have a lanyard for a pocket clip knife?
-What profile should I choose for defensive usage?
-Should I choose a full grind or saber, and why?
-Should it be hollow ground and the benefits or negatives of this?
-Should there be multiple folders or mixture of folder and fixed on person?
-Should there be tip up or down for defensive usage? (I have always preferred up)
-Should we choose tactical or go under the radar?
-Should your hard-use knife be a utility razor?
-When does a neck knife have a place?
-What is the minimum and maximum blade length recommended for EDC of PD?
-What is opinion of assisted openers?
-What is opinion of factory vs. custom for EDC?
-What is opinion of DVD vs. Dojo training?
-What is opinion of edge vs. gun for ambush defense while a foot?
Now I know some of these questions have been answered to a degree at other posts but if anyone can think of a point of questioning I am overlooking I would appreciate the heads up.
Thank you,
tex
I could be totally wrong, but from the tone of this thread I think what is at the very least a theme of answers are... Carry something, better yet carry two of something. Keep a purpose in mind for use, make training blend with other forms training, and lastly in all things considering style, make and model... Preference, preference, preference!
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I have been looking for a good tactical knife since I watched your episode "Alone in the Dark"a few weeks ago. The one you showed also had a training version which I have not come across. Can you share that brand or other brands that have a good knife and a training version. I am new to self defense and have no preconceived preferences so if you recommend it I will probably be very happy with it.
Joel
I have a lot of input on this topic, which is why I wrote an entire book on it: Street Steel. I'm not trying to hype the book; just explaining that the topic can get very deep very quickly.
To try to provide some useful input, here are some quick thoughts:
"Tactical" is a pretty meaningless term. Usually it means painting something black and doubling the price.
The basic requirements I consider important include:
- Legal to carry in the jurisdictions where you travel
Strong, quality construction
Capable of cutting and puncturing
Easily and conveniently carried
Easily and quickly deployed
Ideally, a design that has a dedicated matching training knife available
Since I travel a lot, I lean toward short (3-3.5-inch blade) folders with plain edges. If I have a design I really like and the blade is too long to be legal, I grind the blade down to a legal length and keep the longer handle.
This is a big topic. I'm happy to discuss specifics, but I really feel that there are so many variables, there is no definitive "best."
Stay safe,
Mike
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I believe that was a Spyderco Delica.
I just bought two knives. One is a Cold Steel Mini Lawman and the other is a Spyderco Delica 4 with the plain edge. I wanted to see the difference between two different, highly rated, knives. Both knives have good and less good points...I didn't think either has a "bad" point...I liked the locking mechanism of the Cold Steel better than the Spyderco, but the Spyderco's locking mechanism was still strong. The Mini Lawman was definitely "mini". As in too small for my hand. All in all, the Spyderco is what is in my pocket...it opens faster, feels better in my hand, clip is easier, not too tight, not too loose. And the blade, imho, is better. The Cold Steel knife will be a back up for now until I buy a second Delica. BTW, I bought the Spyderco on EBay from Spydieguys.
Still, one of my very favorite carry knives is the Hideaway Knife (google it for the website). Unfortunately, TAB, a fellow Kalifornian, pointed out it is possilbly illegal in our "state".
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I have one last question. Karambit, joke or deadly serious?
I grapple with this because it seams to use some good mechanical advantages, but I don't know if I dig having something looped around my finger.
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I think the more important questions which needs an expert's advice for are:
-What does the expert carry and why?
-Where does he carry/place on body and why?
-Why does he choose the brand of knives? Really.
-Why choose plain or serrated for Personal Defense?
-Why choose a lock back, liner or (my favorite) axis lock system?
-Why should I have a lanyard for a pocket clip knife?
-What profile should I choose for defensive usage?
-Should I choose a full grind or saber, and why?
-Should it be hollow ground and the benefits or negatives of this?
-Should there be multiple folders or mixture of folder and fixed on person?
-Should there be tip up or down for defensive usage? (I have always preferred up)
-Should we choose tactical or go under the radar?
-Should your hard-use knife be a utility razor?
-When does a neck knife have a place?
-What is the minimum and maximum blade length recommended for EDC of PD?
-What is opinion of assisted openers?
-What is opinion of factory vs. custom for EDC?
-What is opinion of DVD vs. Dojo training?
-What is opinion of edge vs. gun for ambush defense while a foot?
-What is the proper carry for deployment of you EDC blade when carrying a gun strong side?
-Why do we not train deployment of closed knife during verbal deescalation drills?
-Why are reinforced strikes with the closed knife in hand not taught more in training?
-How important is it to have metal liners for stabbing rigidity though clothing and bone strikes?
Now I know some of these questions have been answered to a degree at other posts but if anyone can think of a point of questioning I am overlooking I would appreciate the heads up.
Thank you,
tex
Wow. OK, I’ve got a big cup of coffee and will do my best to address all these with at least some brief answers:
-What does the expert carry and why? I hate the term expert, but if you’re asking me, I carry a Spyderco Endura (ground down to 3.5 inches to make it legal in Colorado) and two Delicas. One of the Delicas has a 50/50 edge; the others are plain. Why? Because these knives have matching trainers, they are affordable and durable, and they are also ubiquitous enough that they do not draw undue attention. They are also completely ambidextrous.
-Where does he carry/place on body and why? Endura strong side pocket, all the way to the back of the pocket. It does not get used for utility purposes. Plain-edge Delica, left-side pocket, mirror image to the Endura. 50/50 Delica, right rear pocket inside the pocket where a right-hander’s wallet normally sits.
-Why does he choose the brand of knives? Really. Performance, reliability, customer service, and ethics. I’ve got somewhere over 200 knives in my collection and have dealt with and written about many different companies. Some knives look cool and don’t work very well. When they don’t work well and you address it with the company, you often get vapid, mouth-breather responses that let you know the company’s people don’t know their products. Other times you get excuses and used-car-dealer dances. Companies that stand up and back their products also tend to be the most ethical. I’ve been screwed by and have had good, talented friends screwed by some big-name companies. I now do not trust those companies as far as I could spit a rat.
-Why choose plain or serrated for Personal Defense? Plain edges with proper edge geometry and a well sharpened edge cut cleaner through clothing without snagging and dissipating the force of the cut. Also, all serrations are not created equal, so it’s not possible to generalize too much about them.
-Why choose a lock back, liner or (my favorite) axis lock system? Quality of execution is more important than lock design. As we say in MBC, “If someone tries hard enough, they can f___ up anything.” By design, back locks, the Axis Lock, the Ball-Bearing Lock, and the Arc-Lock are all ambidextrous. If you carry weak side or both sides, that’s an important consideration. This is a deep subject, but in general, you need to look at design, engineering, and manufacturing execution.
-Why should I have a lanyard for a pocket clip knife? I personally hate lanyards. If it works for you and makes your draw more positive, go for it. I’ve tried them and found they encourage me to grip too far back on the handle, forcing a grip change before I can deploy the blade.
-What profile should I choose for defensive usage? My personal preference is a wharncliffe or a clip-point with a relatively straight cutting edge. They cut with power all the way to the tip, which is important to maximize the function of a short blade.
-Should I choose a full grind or saber, and why? Balancing edge geometry and strength is the real goal. A lot depends on the thickness of the blade material to start with and the width of the blade. The height of the saber grind and, very importantly, the thickness of the edge before sharpening, also play heavily. In general terms, flat grinds tend to cut with less drag and saber grinds tend to be a little stronger, but that’s assuming the company is doing both well. Some companies don’t understand edge geometry at all. Again, if someone tries hard enough…
-Should it be hollow ground and the benefits or negatives of this? Again, it’s tough to generalize too much on this. Hollow grinds typically have a longer life if they are used hard and sharpened often. The reason is that the blade remains thinner behind the edge, so as you sharpen and move the edge “up,” it still works. Flat grinds get thicker as you move the edge up, changing the edge geometry and requiring a wider terminal edge bevel as time goes on.
-Should there be multiple folders or mixture of folder and fixed on person? That depends on your local laws, your style of dress, and your personal preferences.
-Should there be tip up or down for defensive usage? (I have always preferred up) I’m a big tip-up fan. With a proper clip height that allows you a good, deep grip on your knife in the pocket, you can draw and open without having to reposition your knife before deploying the blade. My friend Kelly McCann is a big tip-down fan, but he’s invested the time and training to perfect his deployment. As long as what you do works for you and you can do it reliably and consistently under stress, it works. (Hint: All knives are hard to deploy if you never get off the couch.)
-Should we choose tactical or go under the radar? In my opinion, the real meaning of “tactical” is something that is appropriate to the dynamics of your immediate environment (as opposed to “strategic”). I personally feel that a high-quality knife that offers a good combination of strength, cutting and puncturing performance, and ease of carry and deployment works best—particularly if the people you come in contact on a daily basis don’t give it a second thought. I refuse to cater to sheeple, but at the same time, I’m not out to intimidate anyone.
I also know that the theoretical “jury of my peers” will not be a true jury of my peers, otherwise they’d all show up wearing NRA hats and reading SWAT magazine. Instead, I’ll have some granola-head asking why I didn’t use my “chi” or do a wristlock on the guy trying to bury the tire iron in my head. “I was in fear for my life and was forced to use my pocketknife to disable the attacker so I could escape safely” works better for me than “I pulled out my Combat Karambit and eviscerated the dirtbag.”
-Should your hard-use knife be a utility razor? Only you can define “hard use.” Some people have trouble telling the difference between knives and screwdrivers…
-When does a neck knife have a place? When it’s legal to carry in your area, it’s consistent with your style of dress, and you’ve trained to deploy it and use it when you need it. You also need to realize that many neck knives are incapable of disabling an attacker and must back them up with other skills. Read here for more:
http://www.tactical-life.com/online/tactical-knives/concealed-micro-muscle/
-What is the minimum and maximum blade length recommended for EDC of PD? That depends upon local laws. If you can manage it, at least 3 inches. If you live in Chicago or Boston, settle for the legal 2.5 or move.
-What is opinion of assisted openers? They’re fun, but overrated for defensive use.
-What is opinion of factory vs. custom for EDC? Consider knives like guns, with the same challenges of explaining to a jury what you were carrying. I carry a stock Glock because it’s reliable and it’s exactly what thousands of cops carry. The more “tactical” it seems, the more the idiots will want to assume that you were looking for an excuse to use it. Also, I’ve had to go into non-permissive environments (including a lot of museums and parks) and had to remove my knives to get in. Of course, these places do not offer the courtesy of keeping them for you or even renting a locker because in their perfect non-permissive world you shouldn’t be carrying them. My solution is to carry a sandwich-sized zip-lock bag with me. If I need to ditch my knives, they go in the bag and the bag goes into a planter or under a bush outside. I’m discreet and haven’t lost any knives yet, but I’d rather lose a $100 production knife than a $400 custom.
-What is opinion of DVD vs. Dojo training? Learning takes a motivated student and a decent basis of information. The better the teacher, the greater potential there is to learn, whether it’s firsthand or via video. Well-produced videos also offer camera angles that allow your brain to easily understand and replicate movement. That’s why most of the videos I produced when I ran Paladin Press’ video production featured overhead camera angles.
While there is no substitute for hands-on training with a good instructor, if someone tries hard enough… you know the rest. Some of the best stuff I know I learned by watching videos of some very talented martial artists with the sound turned off. Once I realized they couldn’t articulate what they were doing, it was just a distraction.
-What is opinion of edge vs. gun for ambush defense while a foot? Have both and complement them with solid empty-hand skills. If you are ambushed with a contact-distance weapon, the attacker will play on his terms, i.e. a “knifer” will get close and then move. He will not announce his intentions from 21 feet away to allow you to shoot him. As such, you must use your hands to stay alive long enough to draw and use a weapon.
-What is the proper carry for deployment of you EDC blade when carrying a gun strong side? Strong side as well. That way your initial empty-hand threat-management skills feed the draw for both weapons.
-Why do we not train deployment of closed knife during verbal deescalation drills? Who says I don’t? We do lots of “sneaky” draws and carries, but we address those in seminars. Why tip our hand?
-Why are reinforced strikes with the closed knife in hand not taught more in training? We strike with the closed knife when we are justified in drawing the knife in the first place, but things have happened to quickly for us to open it. All of our improvised weapons skills work exceedingly well with a closed knife. We just don’t focus so heavily on the “closed-knife-impact-tool” thing that it has to be a separate skill set.
-How important is it to have metal liners for stabbing rigidity though clothing and bone strikes? Not very. Fiberglass-reinforced nylon is extremely strong. Liners hold pocket clips on better since they can be threaded.
I hope this helps. Now I need more coffee…
Stay safe,
Mike
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Mike you are the man! I stand in a daily amazment and how much time and effort you put into your product. This isn't some silly board for us to gather after an episode and just chat, you guys back up the software with real tech support.
Bravo, and Thank you. ;D
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I have one last question. Karambit, joke or deadly serious?
I grapple with this because it seams to use some good mechanical advantages, but I don't know if I dig having something looped around my finger.
Thanks for the kind words in your latest post. To "finish the job," here's an answer to your question.
The original premise of the karambit was as a utility tool, mostly for agrarian use. The ring allowed the use to hook a finger (usually a pinky) in it so he could let it dangle and have the utility of both hands without having to sheath the knife every time (much like some guys do with O rings and flashlights, only a few centuries ago). When you needed the blade again, you swung it up into your palm and went back to cutting.
Since the cutlures that developed this design (Indonesia and the Philippines) were poor, the knives folks used for work typically were the same ones that they used for personal defense. As such, tactics were developed around the karambit design.
The common “claim” with the karambit is that it offers three cuts per movement: One with the outward flip of the blade, one with the inward flip, and a third as the knife settles back into reverse grip in your hand. In theory, that sounds great—until you actually make contact with something. Then it’s like nunchaku, which are fun to twirl—until you hit something.
Many modern karambits have terrible designs that look very dramatic, but don’t function well and can easily produce broken fingers if they were ever used full force. The concept of a folding karambit—more specifically a folding knife that you intentionally swing into targets, hitting with the unsharpened back of the blade, while stressing the lock and tempting the blade to close—doesn’t do much for me. If I want a folding knife that cust with power, I’ll opt for a good hawkbill or wharncliffe.
Are karambits fun? Sure. When properly designed and executed, can they be effective? Yes, if they’re double-edged fixed blades. Are they worth the effort? Not to me.
I hope this helps.
Stay safe,
Mike
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Thank you very much for your answer.
The twirling and mock butterfly movements may serve for intimidation, but I agree that even in theory it seems like at the very least its risky and portrays poor control when used in actual defensive. I cringe when I see people place the loop around their pinky, that just seems like you are asking for a tear.
Now on the other hand I do see some benefits. When the loop is placed around the pointer finger it becomes a force multiplier, I have seen it used in pain persuasion, and sorta like a brass knuckle. Also while in this position it makes it hard to see the blade which may or may not be a benefit.
Perhaps its use limits its ability, I guess I still stand on the fence. For a purpose built fighting knife it does provide some decent mechanical advantages.
Thank you again for taking the time to reply.
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Wow. OK, I’ve got a big cup of coffee and will do my best to address all these with at least some brief answers:
-What does the expert carry and why? I hate the term expert, but if you’re asking me, I carry a Spyderco Endura (ground down to 3.5 inches to make it legal in Colorado) and two Delicas. One of the Delicas has a 50/50 edge; the others are plain. Why? Because these knives have matching trainers, they are affordable and durable, and they are also ubiquitous enough that they do not draw undue attention. They are also completely ambidextrous.
-Where does he carry/place on body and why? Endura strong side pocket, all the way to the back of the pocket. It does not get used for utility purposes. Plain-edge Delica, left-side pocket, mirror image to the Endura. 50/50 Delica, right rear pocket inside the pocket where a right-hander’s wallet normally sits.
-Why does he choose the brand of knives? Really. Performance, reliability, customer service, and ethics. I’ve got somewhere over 200 knives in my collection and have dealt with and written about many different companies. Some knives look cool and don’t work very well. When they don’t work well and you address it with the company, you often get vapid, mouth-breather responses that let you know the company’s people don’t know their products. Other times you get excuses and used-car-dealer dances. Companies that stand up and back their products also tend to be the most ethical. I’ve been screwed by and have had good, talented friends screwed by some big-name companies. I now do not trust those companies as far as I could spit a rat.
-Why choose plain or serrated for Personal Defense? Plain edges with proper edge geometry and a well sharpened edge cut cleaner through clothing without snagging and dissipating the force of the cut. Also, all serrations are not created equal, so it’s not possible to generalize too much about them.
-Why choose a lock back, liner or (my favorite) axis lock system? Quality of execution is more important than lock design. As we say in MBC, “If someone tries hard enough, they can f___ up anything.” By design, back locks, the Axis Lock, the Ball-Bearing Lock, and the Arc-Lock are all ambidextrous. If you carry weak side or both sides, that’s an important consideration. This is a deep subject, but in general, you need to look at design, engineering, and manufacturing execution.
-Why should I have a lanyard for a pocket clip knife? I personally hate lanyards. If it works for you and makes your draw more positive, go for it. I’ve tried them and found they encourage me to grip too far back on the handle, forcing a grip change before I can deploy the blade.
-What profile should I choose for defensive usage? My personal preference is a wharncliffe or a clip-point with a relatively straight cutting edge. They cut with power all the way to the tip, which is important to maximize the function of a short blade.
-Should I choose a full grind or saber, and why? Balancing edge geometry and strength is the real goal. A lot depends on the thickness of the blade material to start with and the width of the blade. The height of the saber grind and, very importantly, the thickness of the edge before sharpening, also play heavily. In general terms, flat grinds tend to cut with less drag and saber grinds tend to be a little stronger, but that’s assuming the company is doing both well. Some companies don’t understand edge geometry at all. Again, if someone tries hard enough…
-Should it be hollow ground and the benefits or negatives of this? Again, it’s tough to generalize too much on this. Hollow grinds typically have a longer life if they are used hard and sharpened often. The reason is that the blade remains thinner behind the edge, so as you sharpen and move the edge “up,” it still works. Flat grinds get thicker as you move the edge up, changing the edge geometry and requiring a wider terminal edge bevel as time goes on.
-Should there be multiple folders or mixture of folder and fixed on person? That depends on your local laws, your style of dress, and your personal preferences.
-Should there be tip up or down for defensive usage? (I have always preferred up) I’m a big tip-up fan. With a proper clip height that allows you a good, deep grip on your knife in the pocket, you can draw and open without having to reposition your knife before deploying the blade. My friend Kelly McCann is a big tip-down fan, but he’s invested the time and training to perfect his deployment. As long as what you do works for you and you can do it reliably and consistently under stress, it works. (Hint: All knives are hard to deploy if you never get off the couch.)
-Should we choose tactical or go under the radar? In my opinion, the real meaning of “tactical” is something that is appropriate to the dynamics of your immediate environment (as opposed to “strategic”). I personally feel that a high-quality knife that offers a good combination of strength, cutting and puncturing performance, and ease of carry and deployment works best—particularly if the people you come in contact on a daily basis don’t give it a second thought. I refuse to cater to sheeple, but at the same time, I’m not out to intimidate anyone.
I also know that the theoretical “jury of my peers” will not be a true jury of my peers, otherwise they’d all show up wearing NRA hats and reading SWAT magazine. Instead, I’ll have some granola-head asking why I didn’t use my “chi” or do a wristlock on the guy trying to bury the tire iron in my head. “I was in fear for my life and was forced to use my pocketknife to disable the attacker so I could escape safely” works better for me than “I pulled out my Combat Karambit and eviscerated the dirtbag.”
-Should your hard-use knife be a utility razor? Only you can define “hard use.” Some people have trouble telling the difference between knives and screwdrivers…
-When does a neck knife have a place? When it’s legal to carry in your area, it’s consistent with your style of dress, and you’ve trained to deploy it and use it when you need it. You also need to realize that many neck knives are incapable of disabling an attacker and must back them up with other skills. Read here for more:
http://www.tactical-life.com/online/tactical-knives/concealed-micro-muscle/
-What is the minimum and maximum blade length recommended for EDC of PD? That depends upon local laws. If you can manage it, at least 3 inches. If you live in Chicago or Boston, settle for the legal 2.5 or move.
-What is opinion of assisted openers? They’re fun, but overrated for defensive use.
-What is opinion of factory vs. custom for EDC? Consider knives like guns, with the same challenges of explaining to a jury what you were carrying. I carry a stock Glock because it’s reliable and it’s exactly what thousands of cops carry. The more “tactical” it seems, the more the idiots will want to assume that you were looking for an excuse to use it. Also, I’ve had to go into non-permissive environments (including a lot of museums and parks) and had to remove my knives to get in. Of course, these places do not offer the courtesy of keeping them for you or even renting a locker because in their perfect non-permissive world you shouldn’t be carrying them. My solution is to carry a sandwich-sized zip-lock bag with me. If I need to ditch my knives, they go in the bag and the bag goes into a planter or under a bush outside. I’m discreet and haven’t lost any knives yet, but I’d rather lose a $100 production knife than a $400 custom.
-What is opinion of DVD vs. Dojo training? Learning takes a motivated student and a decent basis of information. The better the teacher, the greater potential there is to learn, whether it’s firsthand or via video. Well-produced videos also offer camera angles that allow your brain to easily understand and replicate movement. That’s why most of the videos I produced when I ran Paladin Press’ video production featured overhead camera angles.
While there is no substitute for hands-on training with a good instructor, if someone tries hard enough… you know the rest. Some of the best stuff I know I learned by watching videos of some very talented martial artists with the sound turned off. Once I realized they couldn’t articulate what they were doing, it was just a distraction.
-What is opinion of edge vs. gun for ambush defense while a foot? Have both and complement them with solid empty-hand skills. If you are ambushed with a contact-distance weapon, the attacker will play on his terms, i.e. a “knifer” will get close and then move. He will not announce his intentions from 21 feet away to allow you to shoot him. As such, you must use your hands to stay alive long enough to draw and use a weapon.
-What is the proper carry for deployment of you EDC blade when carrying a gun strong side? Strong side as well. That way your initial empty-hand threat-management skills feed the draw for both weapons.
-Why do we not train deployment of closed knife during verbal deescalation drills? Who says I don’t? We do lots of “sneaky” draws and carries, but we address those in seminars. Why tip our hand?
-Why are reinforced strikes with the closed knife in hand not taught more in training? We strike with the closed knife when we are justified in drawing the knife in the first place, but things have happened to quickly for us to open it. All of our improvised weapons skills work exceedingly well with a closed knife. We just don’t focus so heavily on the “closed-knife-impact-tool” thing that it has to be a separate skill set.
-How important is it to have metal liners for stabbing rigidity though clothing and bone strikes? Not very. Fiberglass-reinforced nylon is extremely strong. Liners hold pocket clips on better since they can be threaded.
I hope this helps. Now I need more coffee…
Stay safe,
Mike
If any post deserves a sticky (as well as a bag for Kona for the poster), this one is it. Thanks, Mike!
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As usual Mr. Janich, Thank you for the insight.
I am sure I can come up with more questions as usual but I think I should give it a break. No make that pretty-sure. ;D
Thank you again, and I look forward to viewing the updated MBC: Martial Blade Concepts: The Enhanced Version
tex
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*Edit*
Its actually a P.S.:
I would like to also thank the DRTV forum members for allowing me to ask TON of questions without the blatant "disrespect and lashing out" that so many other forums are known for. Seriously, thank you ALL for being respectful.
tex
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wow...I am glad they don't have entry requirements for membership in this Forum.
I joined to chat with folks about guns was expecting folks with my level of expertise.....
The level of firearms knowledge is astounding...plus I get professional information on all aspects of self defense and shooting....not to mention history and poli sci lessons, info on how to drive a freight train, do remodeling and make bacon....
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I had to do a site search on the
info on how to drive a freight train,
,
Thought I missed something important. (Yes I consider that Need-2-Know-Info)
M'ette must of had it removed it for my own safety. ;)
:o tex :o
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I had to do a site search on the ,
Thought I missed something important. (Yes I consider that Need-2-Know-Info)
M'ette must of had it removed it for my own safety. ;)
:o tex :o
And the safety of the country side. ;D
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Mike, Do you have any suggestions for a good, smaller fixed blade that's easy to carry, and maybe some ideas how to carry it concealed? My style of dress is usually tucked in Polo shirt and blue jeans. Thought about carrying it in my boot, but I'd want it accessible with gloves on if needed.
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I had to do a site search on the ,
how to play the "I Like Guns" song in every thread that ericie is currently reading
Thought I missed something important. (Yes I consider that Need-2-Know-Info)
M'ette must of had it removed it for my own safety. ;)
:o tex :o
Fixed..... ;D
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Mike, Do you have any suggestions for a good, smaller fixed blade that's easy to carry, and maybe some ideas how to carry it concealed? My style of dress is usually tucked in Polo shirt and blue jeans. Thought about carrying it in my boot, but I'd want it accessible with gloves on if needed.
I know you asked Mr. Janich, but I am going to answer anyhow. I would recommend an appendix carry( or where your buttons are) tucked, with a fixed blade of a sub 3 inch and a simple friction retention system. As for blades which are easy to carry and have good value, the SOG has a Zero cant , hair shaving capability. No joke, I have one to prove it.
P.S. It will not take very long before I recommend Spyderco for this application.
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That 'shirt tucked in' thing may be a slight problem, but I'm a big fan of 'neck knives' - my latest being a CRKT 'Bear Claw 2500'. Only a 2" blade on this one but up to 4" or so on some of the various Cold Steel types or Kershaw 'Military Boot Knife' model that come with various carrying adaptations. Wear a light microfiber T shirt in OD or Khaki under those polos - looks VERY sexy.....on me anyway :-[
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I don't know how deep you want to conceal, but many folders go unnoticed when they are simply clipped into the pocket.