Knife

[Brokenmace]

Yeah, I carry a knife. It's a Smith & Wesson S.W.A.T. tactical folder. It's a heavy, hardcore boy. But for me a knife is essential. It's not just to defend myself with. I run into too many situation where knives are useful -- and a pocket knife won't do. Despite the fact that I'm a graphic designer by trade, I run into my share of heavy cord, rope, wrapping, and things. You'd be surprised . . .

I also carry a telescopic "springing billy" baton, and a kubaton. If it wouldn't scare the locals, I'd probably carry a short sword too.

It's nice to have non-lethal options. But sometimes you have to rumble, and, as I said, there are utility reasons.

[William]

BTW, as far as gaining control of the blade hand, remember that nothing is certain. A relative of one of my instructors, a Native American and very familiar with Penitentiary tactics, has an interesting way of setting people up (one of many). He’ll pull back his jacket exposing a shoulder rig with a fixed blade (handle down) under his right arm. Standing right foot and shoulder forward, body turned slightly away. He’ll inform you that; “if you can get to it before I pull it out, you might have a chance”. If you go for it, he’s already got the blade out of his left shoulder rig, (which you didn’t see him un-sheath under his jacket when he turned and showed you the right side blade) ready on the blind side for you to come in and get pumped. He’s betting you’ll try to pin/grab/contol his right arm before he can pull it out.
Yes, I know most blade confrontations happen without the victim ever seeing the blade come out. But, there are some folks out there who don’t give a rats-u-know-what whether you see it coming or not.

As I said, nothing is certain. Just train realistically against skilled uncooperative opponents (hand to hand and weapons) to better your odds.

William


Disclaimer: Do not try the above-mentioned maneuver without consulting a physician and your local police department first.

[pcarney]

Good point about most knife attacks occuring when the victim doesn't see the knife before it ends up in his gut. Yet another reason why simply staying aware/away of potential trouble is so important. Really it is the best knife defence.

[William]

pcarney wrote:

>>Yet another reason why simply staying aware/away of potential trouble is so important. Really it is the best knife defence>>

Very good point, awareness is key. Avoiding trouble, yes, though not always possible. Stay away from known trouble areas, and stay aware of your surroundings in unknown areas (or any area for that matter).


William