In the realm of personal defense, the concealed carry of a knife is a topic we are very familiar with both as a self-defense tool and as a weapon in covert operations. A blade combines practical self-defense strategies with deep legal and ethical considerations. Knives are not only tools but, in certain situations, can serve as critical self-defense instruments. We are going to look at carrying a tactical folding knife versus a small fixed blade for personal defense, and explore a few types of carry, accessibility, blade types, and their specific uses.
Tactical Folding Knife vs. Small Fixed Blade Knife
Tactical Folding Knives are popular for their convenience and concealability. They can easily fit into pockets, purses, or be clipped onto a belt, making them highly accessible in a variety of situations. The folding mechanism acts as a safety feature, reducing the risk of accidental injury when the knife is not in use. However, this same mechanism can be a drawback, as it requires an additional step to deploy the blade, potentially slowing down reaction times in a self-defense situation.
Small Fixed Blade Knives offer the advantage of simplicity and reliability. With no moving parts, they can be quicker to deploy than their folding knife counterparts and are generally stronger, making them suitable for a wider range of defensive actions, including piercing and prying. Their main disadvantage lies in concealability; fixed blades require a sheath and are typically carried on the belt, which can make them more noticeable and harder to access discreetly.
Types of Carry
The method of carrying a concealed knife is crucial for ensuring both accessibility and legality. Here are several common carry methods:
Pocket Carry: Suitable for smaller folding knives, often facilitated by a clip on the knife handle.
Inside the Waistband (IWB): A preferred method for small fixed blades, providing better concealment under clothing and with the right blade and sheath minimizes printing.
Neck Carry: Using a cord or chain, this method allows for easy access to a small fixed blade, though concealment can vary based on clothing. Cords are often used with neck carry knives and they are a major drawback as the cord can be employed against you in a close quarter scenario. Instead, opt for a breakaway chain.
Ankle Carry: An alternative for those who prefer the knife to be completely out of the waist area, suitable for both folding and small fixed blades.
Blade Types and Their Uses
Clip Point: Features a concave cut out of the blade towards the point. This design offers precision and control, making it excellent for piercing.
Drop Point: With a convex curve from the spine to the point, drop point blades offer strength and control, ideal for slicing and general-purpose use.
Tanto: Known for its angular shape and strong point, the tanto blade excels in piercing through tough materials. Its design, inspired by Japanese short swords, provides exceptional strength in stabbing motions but may not be perfectly suited in slashing motions.
Straight Edge vs. Serrated:
Straight Edge Blades are ideal for clean cuts and offer ease of sharpening. They excel in precision tasks, such as cutting and slashing or skinning.
Serrated Blades are designed for sawing through tougher materials, such as wet rope or even bone. The serrations require specific sharpening tools but can be more effective in emergency situations where a sawing action is needed.
Choosing the Right Blade for Personal Defense
The choice between a straight edge and a serrated blade, or selecting a specific blade type like clip point or tanto, should be a decision made by the intended use and your personal comfort with the knife.
For personal defense:
Piercing vs. Slashing: If the primary concern is the ability to pierce through layers of clothing or other materials, tanto or clip point blades may offer the best performance. For those who prioritize slashing in a defensive scenario, a drop point or serrated edge might provide the desired efficiency.
Material and Durability: The material of the blade and handle, along with the overall build quality, will affect the knife’s reliability and longevity. High-carbon steel blades are good for their durability and ease of sharpening, while stainless steel offers resistance to corrosion.
Legal Considerations: Always be aware of local laws regarding knife carry, as they can vary widely by jurisdiction. Some areas have restrictions on the length of the blade, the type of knife, and whether it can be concealed.
Conclusion
Choosing to carry a concealed knife for personal defense is a decision that should not be taken lightly. It requires an understanding of the legal implications, a commitment to training, and an honest assessment of one’s willingness to use the weapon if necessary. Whether opting for a tactical folding knife for its convenience and safety features or a small fixed blade for its reliability and ease of access, the key is finding a tool that complements your personal defense strategy while adhering to the laws of your jurisdiction. Remember, the best self-defense weapon is the one you are trained to use effectively, responsibly, and legally.
