Military Knife Rules?

[SpyderEdgeForever]

What are the various rules and regulations you know of for active duty military persons regarding knives? I have heard Special Forces (SEALs, Army Rangers, Green Berets etc and their Allied counterparts) as well as mil intelligence operatives like CIA are allowed to own, use, and carry any knife or edged weapon they can buy, get issued, make, or take off the enemy. But everyday rank and file soldiers can carry any issued or private purchase or gifted knife while in the field. Any more info you know?

[akapennypincher]

Well you said, "I have heard", and what are your sources?

[Naperville]

What are the various rules and regulations you know of for active duty military persons regarding knives? I have heard Special Forces (SEALs, Army Rangers, Green Berets etc and their Allied counterparts) as well as mil intelligence operatives like CIA are allowed to own, use, and carry any knife or edged weapon they can buy, get issued, make, or take off the enemy. But everyday rank and file soldiers can carry any issued or private purchase or gifted knife while in the field. Any more info you know?

We need some soldiers to reply to your statement.

What I think is special forces get more leeway, but not much. They have leadership that make decisions for the SF Unit, and the SF soldiers are on a Base that has rules, and the Base is in a US State that has rules.

You may want to be on a Base in TX or AK.


Here is what Google AI said regarding standard soldiers:

/QUOTE/
No, a US soldier cannot carry just any knife they desire; their ability to carry a knife is restricted by federal and installation regulations, as well as commander policies, which generally prohibit large blades (often over 3 inches) and automatic knives or switchblades. While soldiers are often allowed to carry folding knives for utility purposes, it depends on the specific post, unit, and mission, and they are always responsible for knowing and adhering to the local regulations.


Federal and Installation Regulations

Blade Size: Federal regulations, such as the one for the Army, often specify blade length limits, with knives longer than 3 inches sometimes needing commander authorization.

Type of Knife: Automatic knives or switchblades are generally prohibited.

Carrying Method: Knives must typically be carried in a sheath or scabbard in a visible manner.


Commander and Unit Policies
** Post-Specific Rules: Each military base or installation will have its own specific policies, and some may be stricter than others.

** Unit Policies: Commanders have the authority to set additional rules for their specific units.
Field Duty: Commanders may authorize carrying larger knives for field duties.


Practical Considerations
** Functionality:
Many soldiers prefer multi-tools like Leatherman or Gerber, as they offer more utility than a single-purpose knife.

** Convenience:
While some knives are issued, most soldiers use and carry personal knives purchased from civilian markets for convenience and utility.

** Duty:
Soldiers should only carry knives that are relevant to their duties, rather than overly large or tactical-looking knives.



Here is what Google AI said about S.E.A.L. Team Members:

No, a US Navy SEAL soldier cannot carry any kind of knife they desire. While SEALs and other special operations personnel have more flexibility in choosing their gear than conventional forces, their choices are still restricted by official regulations, mission requirements, and team leader approval.

[SpyderEdgeForever]

Thank you. I do not want to reveal the source but a person in the know revealed to me that our Allied heroes have sent many attacking terrorist "soldiers" into the next world in some of the foreign battlefields, using quality lockblade folding pocket knives.
Obviously firearms rule but edged tools still stand strong.

[SpyderEdgeForever]

This is great info

[Aladinsane]

When I was in the Navy from 1991-1995 we just carried Buck 110s, or SAKs. I don’t recall ever seeing or hearing about any regulations, though I’m sure there were some.