Self defense knife under 3.5”?

[elena86]

P’Kal

[twinboysdad]

Tasman Salt
D4 Wharn
Search for Lil Matriarch

[sal]

Hi Hobbyist,

Some personal thoughts on a knife for self defense. These are just my own personal opinions.

1. The most important thing about a knife is that you have it with you when you need it.
2. The most important thing about a knife for self defense is that you do not drop it. It can't be something that can easily be knocked out of your hand, You don't to be rummaging around on the floor trying to retrieve your self defense tool while being attacked.
3. It must be readily available. No hunting for it.
4. I have always advocated or carrying a dedicated self defense knife and it should be as sharp as possible. If you have a dual purpose knife, it may not be at its sharpest when you need it.

My personal suggestion is a Swick (Swift + Quick). Developed over a 22 year period with numerous models to get to our final product. 2 finger ring sizes (Fred Perrin concept). We use a Wharncliffe blade shape (influenced by Mike Janich). Very difficult to be take from you. A slash to any body part will do damage. Can be carried on a belt or pants or skirt lip. Can be carried in a a pocket while sheathed. Can be carried as a neck knife. Does not require a great deal off training.

sal

[phaust]

Legit question, why the Micro over the regular? The regular is also under 3.5"

I think the overall package is better. It's built on the experience from the Yojimbo and the 2. Also the tip appears less fragile.

The Ronin could be an alternate but some folks will find a bigger fixed blade inconvenient. It's no good if it's not carried all the time.

Thanks, interesting to hear. I don't have a Micro so didn't realize the point about the tip in particular

[p_atrick]

I know nothing about SD. However I’d like to chime in about how great the Lil Temp 3 is. I do wonder how it will fair for women. The knife is thicker than most, which helps with comfort in hand (at least for me). But given the problem women have with pockets, maybe it isn’t the best choice?

[gimibala]

Before you buy a knife for your wife for self-defense, you need to make sure she knows how to use the knife, as well as the law around self-defense. Laws in each state are different, so you have to be careful. I read somewhere about the Minnesota River Stabbing, where someone used a knife (most likely for self-defense) and is now facing criminal charges because one of the attackers died. In my opinion, it is more important to know how to use a knife, as well as the laws wherever you live, than the specific knife.

[James Y]

Jim

[aicolainen]

Before you buy a knife for your wife for self-defense, you need to make sure she knows how to use the knife, as well as the law around self-defense. Laws in each state are different, so you have to be careful. I read somewhere about the Minnesota River Stabbing, where someone used a knife (most likely for self-defense) and is now facing criminal charges because one of the attackers died. In my opinion, it is more important to know how to use a knife, as well as the laws wherever you live, than the specific knife.

Knowing the law is important and helpful, but living to see your trial is IMO even more important.
I'm not promoting breaking the law for no good reason, It's just a remainder to prioritise staying alive. When you fear for your life you do what you have to and you shouldn't be distracted by thoughts regarding what you can or cannot legally do.

[Danke]

Hi Hobbyist,

Some personal thoughts on a knife for self defense. These are just my own personal opinions.

1. The most important thing about a knife is that you have it with you when you need it.
2. The most important thing about a knife for self defense is that you do not drop it. It can't be something that can easily be knocked out of your hand, You don't to be rummaging around on the floor trying to retrieve your self defense tool while being attacked.
3. It must be readily available. No hunting for it.
4. I have always advocated or carrying a dedicated self defense knife and it should be as sharp as possible. If you have a dual purpose knife, it may not be at its sharpest when you need it.

My personal suggestion is a Swick (Swift + Quick). Developed over a 22 year period with numerous models to get to our final product. 2 finger ring sizes (Fred Perrin concept). We use a Wharncliffe blade shape (influenced by Mike Janich). Very difficult to be take from you. A slash to any body part will do damage. Can be carried on a belt or pants or skirt lip. Can be carried in a a pocket while sheathed. Can be carried as a neck knife. Does not require a great deal off training.

sal

You gotta make this again.

[ladybug93]

unfortunately, fixed blades are considered weapons in my state. even though the concealed carry laws have changed to allow the concealed carry of weapons, i'd rather have a knife that isn't legally considered a weapon if i had to use it to defend myself.

[ZrowsN1s]

Sal's suggestion of Swick is great.

If however due to laws it needs to be a folder, the Karahawk is a great option. Very slim backlock with a retention ring and a 2.5 inch blade. Use is pretty instinctual.

I'm a huge fan of the P'kal but that requires a little more practice than a Karambit.

[TomH]

Lil matriarch SE...if you can find one.
Otherwise, Tasman Salt PE.

Another vote here to bring back the S.P.O.T.

[Michael Janich]

My rules for choosing a self-defense knife are very simple:

1. Research the laws in the area where you live and travel and do your best to pick something that is legal to carry. You don't want to start your claim to a legitimate act of self-defense with a felony in your pocket.
2. Find a high-quality knife that fits that description AND has a matching trainer. Buy both.
3. Use the trainer to develop reliable skills and tactics geared toward stopping an attacker quickly and effectively.

Step 2 narrows the "tactical" market by more than 99%--especially when you consider actual product availability. If you find the perfect knife and there is no mechanically identical matching trainer, really serious people convert a live blade to a safe, dedicated trainer.

If you're not going to invest the time and effort in step 3, your knife is more talisman than viable personal-defense weapon.

Stay safe,

Mike

P.S. Presently, your best Spyderco option is a Delica 4 and Delica 4 Trainer.

[Ocho]

If you're not going to invest the time and effort in step 3, your knife is more talisman than viable personal-defense weapon.

My blade is an extension of my hand.. for us who carry, your 5x5 combat Solutions products only enhance that symbiosis.
P.S.The colaboration with Perrin was inspired and phenomenal! Kudos!

[derp]

Obligatory...
Your wife should have several self defense options prior to the knife.
Avoiding the situation
Long distance running
Gun
Mace
Taser
Etc.
Knife/baton/fists should usually be the last resort for someone who is at a disadvantage and being attacked.

This can't be restated enough. Situational awareness and actively avoiding a situation is by far the most important. A knife should be last resort after all those other things.

[Michael Janich]

Dear derp:

And, it's important to remember that EVERY tool you list also requires proper and diligent training. It's irresponsible and ineffective to carry things you don't have the skills to use.

Stay safe,

Mike

[Bolster]

unfortunately, fixed blades are considered weapons in my state. even though the concealed carry laws have changed to allow the concealed carry of weapons, i'd rather have a knife that isn't legally considered a weapon if i had to use it to defend myself.

Same here. California Penal Code 21310 PC makes it a crime to carry a concealed fixed-blade knife.

Even a fixie with a half-inch blade is considered a dangerous "dagger" and evidence of ill intent. So is a kitchen knife. It can be prosecuted as either a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on the capriciousness of the court. Up to 3 years jail + $10,000, if the judge really hates knives or hates you.

[sal]

A lot of good advice here.

sal

[Fastidiotus]

capriciousness

Mmmm new word for me. English is such a delicious language.

[Mk-211]

My wife carries one of these for letter opening.