Blade Basics...What And How To Carry

This article was written by aqira

What where and how do you carry your knife Do you carry a fixed blade or a folder What is the operational means of exposing the blade a common two hand operation or an assisted opening operation such as a flipper folder, butterfly, is it spring loaded or is it a fixed blade Where is the knife carried in the boot, belt, pocket, jacket, around the neck There is no clear cut answer as in every situation there are advantages and disadvantages to each.

This brief discussion is not intended to cover every possible pro or con in every case however some things are offered to consider before selecting the type of knife for conceal carry and where it will be carried.

Once you know the local laws and what options this gives you next you need to decide what type of knife, such as fixed blade or folder the size and the type of sheath if any as well as where you plan to wear it.

One note in purchasing a knife one should be selected that has options. For example a folder with a clip can be worn on the belt, in the pocket, inside the pants waistband, in the boot, jacket pocket and so on. This gives many options though there is the delay in the draw and open. This will require a lot of practice to be proficient and reliable if not then the flexible options might be outweighed by the difficulty in a quick draw response

Another issue that should be considered when selecting a knife and a carry method is that the position and function of the elbow will be effected by the knife and the manner of the draw and response.

The elbow bends in the draw and gives away the position of the blade, as well as the defensive disadvantage of the bent arm. A consideration should be where and how the elbow bends in each case. There should be an evaluation of a variety of issues such as the arm going behind the back. Even if the hip is turned to protect the drawing arm the position often moves into a natural check. The method of carry and the type of knife determines the ability to bring it out and respond effectively. Once a type of knife and a method of carry have been selected training is mandatory. To know the options and to know the limits should be a primary rule.

Pockets The pant pocket is the most common however other pockets such as a jacket both inside or outside, and a shirt pocket are frequent options.

Pro -This offers a convenient method of carry. Usually will not be considered canceled. The person standing with their hand in their pocket is a natural look, often the blade can be held inside the pocket without notice.

Con- Other items in the pocket can interfere with a quick draw. The pocket on tight pants or thick material such as denim can hamper fast access.

The knife may be limited to a folder requiring the extra step of opening the knife after drawing from the pocket.

Pockets with clip Much the same as a pocket carry however it is more secure and stays in one location in the pocket. Usually worn to the outside corner at the top.

Pro- Easy access concealed yet still in the pocket so it may not be considered concealed. The clip will make a more secure and stable position of the knife.

Con- The clip may be tight and hold on to soft material hesitating the draw. Can be seen and may be noticed when going for a draw.

Waistband This is not a preferred location by most blade artist and is more likely to be a position selected by a novice.

Pro - The position is concealed, often considered more comfortable

Con- The pants waistband is not stable and it may be hard to get the hand into a good grasp position. Tight fit, an overweight person may interfere with their own draw.

Belt If a fixed blade in a sheath is selected this may be the best choice or perhaps the only viable choice. Especially for a larger blade such as those over 3 inches. A folder in a sheath is a common carry knife. This is legal in most areas. The fast access still requires opening the sheath which is often locked with a flap and snap. Then the folder still has to be opened. The location of the knife is obvious as well as when it is reached for virtual eliminating any element of surprise.

Pro- Secure, easy access, kept separate from other items such as in a pocket carry. The knife normally stays in the same basic position sitting or standing.

Con- The blade is noticeable if the shirt is tucked in the pants. Several steps are required to draw and respond.

Boot Primarily designed as a fighter, most boot knives are a fixed blade type.

Pro- One of the more convenient places to carry a concealed fix blade. An option when pockets and belts are used for other items which is one of the reasons the military sometimes uses this means of carry.

Con- Problem is with the position of the leg of a draw as well as the varying positions required for the hand to leg draw. Lifting the pant leg to access the knife is cumbersome and causes too much of a delay.

Neck The current trend in blade fighting is making this option more popular. This form of defensive fighting blade is being met by manufactures that are staring to offer more versions of this type of knife. This form of carry is primarily for concealment and defense

Pro - Allows for a close draw and strike, also keeping the elbow in and the arm close the defensive posture is more natural, flexible and preferred in close quarter combat.

Con - The size of the knife and the type of clothes are factors to consider. The exposure and quick access limits the clothes that can be worn. A tight shirt will interfere.

As stated there are pros and cons for each and no clear cut choice. Intention of the carry, the planned use, the skill level of the blade fighter, and personal preference are the most common factors that will lead to the final selection. The blade fighter should select based on these facts and disregard what is popular.

There are many books articles and classes on knife fighting. Many positions are promoted however there are some common things that are consistent with any knife fighting system.

The blade fighter should be aware of these consistencies and always take these common facts into consideration....to be continued