KnifeCenter FAQ #79: Self Defense Fixed Blades?

[@chadcolton528]

I also use the tdi for jogging. I wear it iwb at 6 o’clock so I can grab it with either hand. It’s out of the way and doesn’t bounce around. If you give it a rinse after your each run and spray it with wd40 every other week or so it’s pretty rust resistant. I got one spot of discoloration on the each but just honed it off with a ceramic rod.

[@LK-bz9sk]

This man is 100. Always soft spoken and informative. I love this channel.

[@GambitGodsey187-ku3wz]

Lol yeah cause a 2 inch karambit style is good against a pack of dogs 😂😂😂😂 the guys a pud

[@charlescollier7217]

Probably my favorite running knife is my Cold Steel Air Lite Drop Point. It is, as the name suggests, very light. In fact, it's light enough to wear with gym shorts or track pants, with almost no footprint and no drag, but wait, there's more! It also 1) has a very usefully-shaped, relatively stout, 3.5-inch blade, 2) is made from a good budget stainless steel that is tough, but pretty easy to maintain, 3) has a handle that is comfortable for most EDC cutting tasks, but can even get some harder outdoors things done, in a pinch, and 4) sports a Tri-Ad lock. The result is a SUPER tough, easy-to-maintain, useful-for-almost-everything, almost weightless, very concealable knife. It's made for jogging.

[@prodlilbooger]

it’s folding

[@charlescollier7217]

@@prodlilbooger it is, and therefore doesn't provide a solution for the person who asked about a fixie for running. I'm just sharing my own take on a knife for running/hiking.

[@cloudnine8842]

For the tanto guy I've went through MANY same carry as u want and I modded a cold steel Kyoto sheathe and that blade has worked best for me..

[@davidsilva8695]

I just want to thank you for your interesting and informative videos. The production values are high, and the interaction between Thomas and David add a lot. Good job!

[@stevelewis6259]

SOCP Dagger I think is the all around self defense shown. The ring is the key. Even without training, You need just a level head and stay calm as possible. Like I said the ring It can be used to impact or strike without going poke poke. The bridge of the nose and around the eyes are the best spots to hit

[@kirkpreston4864]

As someone who works in big city at night I think range is super effective if a confrontation is inevitable you can have a 5 inch knife but a crackhead with a broom stick prolly gonna win if he’s motivated and healthy/capable enough to swing hard lmao

[@sterlingstoots3215]

A fit crackhead will fight all day without stopping for 11 bucks I recommend a Broad sword or Boar spear for crack head related activities.

[@md8267]

If a crackhead with a broomstick can take you let alone with a knife your self defense plan should involve sprinting only

[@sufferedlearnedchanged]

The Cold Steel C clips work perfect for that Cold Steel Tanto. The hardware that comes with it is thin enough to fit in those holes. 👌🏼

[@slywolfe]

My sensei had lots of technical knowledge and experience from training in Japan and the Israeli army but he always told us that if you don't and you're defending yourself or others: " _The most important thing is to not get your weapon taken, be non-lethal if you reasonably can, and if at all possible - run._ *And when in doubt, hold onto the knife with all your strength and aim for the neck.* "

[@ferrisbueller9991]

Crkt's minimalist series is really hard to lose your grip on. As of now, only knife I had when shit was about to go south. Absolute confidence in hand, I used to foil fence, always w/ a pistol grip competitively; it had similar ergonomics to allow me to snap into position, legs and arm, via muscle memory. Luckily it was quite dark and the one closest to me asked if I had a gun aloud. The 2 rushing up from the car, car they pulled over in after seeing some guy alone in the middle of the night, parroted "what he has a gun?!" And reversed their sprint. I hadn’t even popped the sheath off. Later would have a as I saw them drive away only to circle back once my heart came to a resting pace. Was chased. Had to stand off again because like last time, I couldn’t out run. They didn’t get out of the car this go around. Just screamed for awhile. before driving off. I wisely sneak home because I realized they would likely circleback. Believe it was so. When I saw a light pass I ran into my home from the back. Locked the door. Filed a police report, boys in blue always helpful. Said they'd send a cruiser. I looked. They didn’t. Lol.

[@OldBadger1]

If you take out a blade, it is already beyond lethal/non lethal. You have already made your choice and if you are in Israel chances are that you will go to jail or get shot by a bystander/cop.

[@edwardk6764]

Cool choices. Dig cold steel for the bang 4 buck value. I carry a civivi d2 elementum fixed blade in a scout carry behind the back. Love the terzuola clip. I keep the blade oiled, as d2 is not corrosion proof.

[@MountainFisher]

Mirror polished edges are for show on a working knife. Cutting meat, just look at a butcher's edge, 400 to 600 grit. Filet knife has to have a less than polished edge if you plan to skin the fish. I found out in the 70s that a knife can be too sharp for the task when I went to skin fish and the blade just cut right through the skin instead of along it. I re-sharpened my knives with the 400 grit water stone, worked fine as I proceeded to filet about 400 lbs. of fish on my first charter as deckhand.

[@twatmunro]

That Benchmade SOCP dagger looks great. I love a finger in the ring too.

[@dieseldabz7104]

David you forgot about the Benchmade Nimravus which I was shocked they still make all these years later. It was one of my first two Benchmade knives I bought at age 17 before going off to the military and later deployment. I carried them both and used them hard for a few years without ever failing me. Both are now retired but in my collection and in great shape and were the reason I continued to buy from them.

[@soonerfrac4611]

As an Army DACP (after I got out of being an MP) I carried the Ka-Bar TDI for my entire career. Stayed on my liner belt when at work. My wife stole it so often on my days off that I bought her one, now my 16yo son carries his (it’s Oklahoma, everyone carries), my mother and mother in law both carry one, and my father who is still a Fed LEO just recently started carrying one. I’ve got a CRKT Obake that is my other defensive fixed blade and alternate between the two.

[@nicholasevans9627]

You can still find the Nimravus, but they stopped production of the blades a yr or 2 ago.

[@knate44]

Help. I just bought a 4 inch cold steel Kris Ti-lite. I need to think of EDC tasks to justify the purchase. What sort of edc tasks would the wavy blade be good for? Pocket bread knife maybe?

[@grapplergirl10]

My kbar Leo goes with me everywhere. It’s easily ambidextrous and super sharp. Im a righty so carry it left side appendix. If my right hand is getting my weapon, the left hand can easily use the kbar with that angle. Love it. Very natural and light.

[@barrybaldwin5535]

Regarding ceramic bladed knives, I purchased a 5 or 6" version from "Harbor Freight" store for about $6, which was fully adequate for awhile, until I tried to hone the edge for a touchup. It was all downhill for me from there. I ended up just breaking the blade on purpose as a destructive testing clinic for myself, as I ruined the edge. No more ceramic blades for me.

[@elconquistador98]

Buying from Harbor Fright was the first mistake.

[@markholder4944]

T.Kell Nightstalker is my favorite EDC fixed blade for self defense. Or his Nightshade.

[@PODSMPSG1]

I own and carry the Kabar TDI, I also own the TDI USSF Astro MP. AUS 8 gives good corrosion resistance and pretty good edge retention as well. The coating on the blade also provides extra corrosion resistance.

[@michaelschaffer9165]

Cold Steel sells sheath mounting systems in 2 sizes. They say these are designed to fit a lot of their knifes. I have both sizes and they have lots of slots to fit a wide variety of sheaths. Cheap too.

[@slywolfe]

This got me thinking: what is the best blade steel and geometry (point/blade/grind) for a self defense knife? Best handle material?

[@Alden99669]

A big part of using a knife for self defense is being able to conceal it. Not enough emphasis is put on the sheath and the attachment of the sheath to the belt, especially horizontal belt carry? How about doing a video about fixed blade horizontal belt carry and concealability?

[@mrblaque215]

I’ve found the best fixed blade for self defense either with/without carrying a firearm is the Skallywag Tactical Dagger in D2 steel or aluminum. It has a bigger ring than the SOCP Dagger which helps with deployment when wearing gloves, has a sheath that’s MOLLE compatible, is primarily for stabbing (not slashing and is based on the design of the Hoplite spear), and if you’ve trained in rudimentary boxing (especially with the Philly Shell stance) will work with your body mechanics very well.

[@redriver6541]

CRKT Keramin deserves a spot on one of these videos as well also the Spyderco Emerson Matriarch 2. Love these types of videos either way.... What I carry for opening boxes isn't what I carry for defense..... I enjoy seeing all of the options out there.

[@Tommy_Ace52]

Keramin is trash. One full strength swing and that tip is broken

[@ShidenByakko]

Hi David (and Seth if that helps), My first question was answered brilliantly, so here I go again! Hope you can help me out with another one similar to my 1st question: I'm looking for a folding knife, with the following features: 1) Flipper (that becomes a "guard") 2) Axis or Similar Cross-Bar Lock (**MUST** be bank-vault, bomb-proof strong) 3) Thumb Hole, either oval or round, doesn't matter, but **MUST** have it... 4) About 3" or more Blade Length 5) Pointy, not Wharncliffe, but needs some belly. 6) Optional, but would be game-winning: Full Flat Grind, finger choil, assist or bearings in the pivot and Deep Carry Pocket Clip 7) See if you can recommend me a budget and a premium version each. Thanks so much!

[@MRWKFClark]

Question about sheaths/fixed blades… I’ve always been more into folding knives except for a few larger blades used in the garden or camping etc. Starting to dip my toe into EDC-ing fixed blades. I like the idea of fixed blades but the one thing that always gets me is gunk on the blade. Eg if you cut a box up with a folding knife and go through some tape or outdoors and get tree sap or fish guts on it. You can mostly operate it one handed, fold it away and use both hands to continue doing a task. The blade is obviously between the handle scales and gunk on the blade stays on the blade. With a sheath knife for example, if one hand is in use and you only have your other hand to use the knife. You get gunk on the blade but suddenly need both hands to do something so you go to put your blade away. All the gunk is then transferred into the sheath and will probably be extremely hard or impossible to clean completely. I have put some major scratches on my Rockstead Chou wave because there was sand stuck to the gunk which got transferred inside the sheath. I’ve also recently acquired a Winkler belt knife but reluctant to use it on anything but dry materials on dry days because the sheaths are lined with felt and a blade steel probe to rust. Do you have any pro tips? since the only alternative I can think of, and is mostly not practical is that you simply do not resheath until you have cleaned the blade. Which sometimes just isnt possible in the field. Or in between jobs etc. sorry for the wall of text. If this issue is worthy of discussion in one of your videos please feel free paraphrase. Edit: I have a couple of Moras which are so inexpensive they are more or less disposable. And a cold steel san Mai kukri. Which for some reason doesn’t bother me one bit to completely abuse. That thing just shrugs it all off.

[@arrowheadguys7637]

Wipe it off on your pants like a normal person and stick it back in the sheath.

[@nickmiller4430]

Self-defence knives need not always have to be fixed blades, but if one is optimizing their knife doctrine, fixed blades are by far the better choice due to reliability- just like why experts suggest Glocks or M&Ps because they are striker-fired and without a safety for optimal simplicity and reliability above all- which is what makes it a tactical choice.

[@67wing]

My hunting knife is the knives of Alaska elk hunter in d2. I've never had a problem with staining or rust. It sharpens easy and holds an edge

[@mine8009]

So glad to see Benchmade redesigned the clip on the sheath! The original version was kind of unadulterated junk. Question, have the addressed the finish? The older version of the SOCP dagger used to have hard 90 degree edges. I sanded mine down to round them and it’s much more comfortable.

[@bradgrand79]

Hint to runners you can run with a neck knife you need to keep the cord or chain as short as possible. I’m necker weights 1.4 ounces.

[@DailyDrivenBikes_1]

I'm surprised that I didn't see any crkt minimalist knives on the table.

[@DF-iv7td]

Hey DCA, love the FAQ videos where we get to see some classic edc choices. Lately I've realized that as my collection of modern folders grows, blade thickness has become one of my most important criteria when choosing a new knife. My preference for thin and slicey blade stocks is part of the reason I edc traditional slipjoints along with my modern folders. My question is, would you consider having the boys at the lab add blade thickness as a filter option when searching for knives on the KC website, just as you would for things like blade shape and material?

[@bernardtransition]

Large-handled small-bladed folder? I have larger than average hands, and really like a full handle, but there are times when I want or need a smaller blade, ~2” (e.g. for precision work, or to avoid concerns in crowded public areas, or where limited by law such as Boston). I prefer great steels, and I’m not especially price-limited … I just want that great full grip in a pocket portable package. Thanks for any recommendations.

[@freman007]

I have a Mini Tac Tanto that I just wrapped some gutted paracord through the holes to make belt loops.

[@barrybaldwin5535]

Regarding question #3 ( trail running/bushcraft fixed blade ) doesn't the belt clip, which has ear tabs, on the "Peacmaker" duo unclip & fit in the opposite way for inverted carry?

[@LatiosBlade]

Just a suggestion I think it might be useful to have a ruler and a pocket scale on set, though I get that most information is on the site, though not everyone lists the weight of just the knife without the sheath and all the other variants (kydex, leather, nylon sheaths, etc).

[@matthewquinn937]

lol I like that intro - I'd love a video specifically on rescue knives. I'd love to find a great knife with assisted opening of any type as well as a glass breaker and seat-belt cutter. Thank you!!

[@knifecenter]

Ask and ye shall receive: kzbin.info/www/bejne/sIvMlJV7aK92b68

[@matthewquinn937]

@@knifecenter perfect! Thanks.

[@jenniferdavis3026]

Question: seems like any women’s knife recommendation is a full size pocket knife or a mini. I would like some recommendations on something in between as an actual carry. Have you seen women’s pockets? Needs to be somewhat slim, lightweight, but not too big. I actually carry a Dragonfly wharncliffe that I am satisfied with. But wouldn’t mind a slightly longer blade.

[@mdubb4855]

CJRB Ria

[@arrowheadguys7637]

Feels like the easy answer is one of the upgraded Bugouts

[@Ericstraordinary]

How about the Real Steel RealSlim? It is a super-slim knife with a "medium" length blade of VG-10 (I think).

[@jorgefernandez6407]

Dave, seems like every time you do one of these "specialty" videos, I end up placing an order... Keep it up!

[@SweetTooth8989]

Was going to mention, for light scratches, you could try using something like Flitz (or many others) metal polishing compounds. They're super easy to use. Comes in a big toothpaste like tube and also has the consistency of toothpaste. Squeeze a dab out and put in on a polishing cloth and polish each side by hand for a couple minutes each. It WILL polish the blade, so i don't know if that will actually reduce the scratches or make them more apparent, i suppose it could work well on very faint scratches but I've used to polish a couple new knives i had to give them a finer finish on the blade and it works well. I've never used it to try to reduce scratches though but i think it could work. Some brands have a finer grit which works good to polish and bring more of a mirror finish on blades and some have a rougher grit which is better to even out imperfections and scratches.

[@AryanKG]

Want to hear you recommendation on best self defense or combat folder. Also your opinion on carrying a small push dagger for the same purpose.

[@danvalleskey]

DAC- is there a multitool that can be carried onto a plane? Will TSA let you carry on a multitool if you remove the main blade? Thanks!

[@theangrypainter826]

Fox Karambit! With quick deployment. Is my favorite

[@twai8036]

Hello DCA, can you go over the different types of micarta? I know it’s hot right now and want some clarity on linen, canvas, burlap micarta, and terotuff?

[@jerrypomroy2375]

I believe he went over this a few weeks back. May be wrong on the timetable but I know he’s covered it.

[@arrowheadguys7637]

@@jerrypomroy2375 He did, but I think it was more like a month or two back. As to the question, micarta is made of fibrous material stacked with resins and compressed. So linen micarta is literally layer of linen stacked in resin and compressed, same with canvas and burlap.

[@stephenmaher4690]

I'm looking at getting into Spyderco via the Lil' Native Compression lock. The largest reason I want this knife is because of the size+compression lock combo. The pivot worries me, though. How is the action? Is it as flickable as all the modern ball bearings out there? Part of the reason I would want such a nice knife is for the build quality and action of, massive importance for how a knife feels for me. Unsure if the money is worth it if there are knives half the cost that also have great build quality and potentially better action.

[@nmnate]

It's pretty easy to do the regular flick or reverse flick with the compression lil' native. I find it easier to close with my middle finger on the compression lock. The knife is pretty small so handling is a little trickier than a bigger knife (but I do find that a 2.5" blade with mostly a 4 finger grip is pretty sweet). For what it's worth, all my compression lock spydercos are really easy to flick open. I wouldn't worry too much about not having bearings. They're all pretty smooth.

[@OldBadger1]

There is no such long as a "Self Defence Knife'! I sent some pictures of knives to my Kali teacher. His reply" It's a knife" :) Having said that, what I look for : Quickness of:deployment, handle, strength, pointy, sharp.

[@OGFreedom1776]

I’m not sure if anyone else mentioned it but you can actually flip that clip to invert it on the cold steel peace maker 2 & 3 it is a little tough to do but I’ve done it myself

[@Missingllynx]

I like the form of the SOCP, but I need something that isn't too tactical for an office setting. Is there such a thing as a deep carry gent's fixed blade?

[@mattadler4710]

darn it!! why did you have to show that Smith and Sons?! Its so cool, and now its stuck in my head.

[@deceptivepanther]

Perhaps feature Cold Steel's Safe Maker series sometime in the self-defence category? Like the TDI; anyone with even a little experience can make good use of them. They fit great as an appendix carry. I'm a big fan. Conversely, I can't understand knives with rings on them, like that Benchmade. They seem like a great idea, until you actually try to use them. Moreover; unless you are trying to pierce plate armour in the fourteenth century, a reverse grip is just making life difficult for yourself.

[@NoNamer123456789]

A reverse grip actually has some advantages to it, and karambits were historically often used with a ring in that position (and no, not to pierce armour, that wouldn't even work). You have less reach, but you can generate more power due to biomechanics. It's also more natural because you strike as you would with a fist. The ring may be uncomfortable, but it adds security to the grip and when you're defending your life comfort isn't my main concern.

[@deceptivepanther]

@@NoNamer123456789 Good selling points but for me, that's all it ever was: marketing. A karambit is a martial arts weapon, by which I mean, it's not relevant for most people. That lack of reach you mention, is everything. If you've got a knife, anybody skilled will be targeting the hand that's holding that blade and it's a lot easier to destroy the extremities if your blade is point down. I used to get students to fight each other with felt tipped pens. Sixty seconds and you realise that a reverse grip is a poor choice. I understand the body mechanics of karambits but they're not relevant. An unarmoured human has practically no resistance to a sharp edge in the first instance. Just my opinion.

[@richardhenry1969]

What you say is true for untrained. In fact every thing he picked shows he isn't trained. I find it funny when a knife sales guy thinks he understands self-defense. Any knife can work but there is many better choices. But training is more important then blade.

[@deceptivepanther]

@@richardhenry1969 True, training is the most important thing.

[@NoNamer123456789]

@@deceptivepanther I mean I only wanted to state that a reverse grip isn't just BS, and it was actually used. You have a bit less reach, but that's assuming you and the attacker have the same knife. That can be equalised with a longer and curved blade. I guess if you find yourself in a situation where you're threatened with a blade, there's a good chance the attacker isn't trained and wildly attacking, which strengthen your point. Also, when wearing thicker clothing (like in winter), it can reduce the effectiveness of slashes, especially if the knife isn't as sharp or hits at an angle or w/e. Stabs will still work with a bit more force needed.

[@NaturalBornGriller]

I've done a lot of knife training, and the one thing that my instructors have always drilled into people is this: There are two types of people in a knife fight; Leakers, and Gushers. You will always get cut, it's up to you to determine how much blood comes out. The majority of people who you could encounter in a knife fight self defense scenario are going to A) not be trained in knife fighting, and B) probably are carrying some junk kitchen knife they bought or stole from the dollar store. These people are going to be unpredictable(AKA wont fight like your sparring partner), and possibly have other hazards upon their person that you want to avoid (disease, needles, etc), and likely are not going to be alone. This last point is pretty critical to understand and acknowledge, and train for. PS I wear a kabar TDI in a modified sheath as my self defense blade

[@hithere4719]

I wound up homeless in 2021 following a work accident in 2020. One of the last purchases I made before losing my income was a TDI. Little dude was my security blanket during the month or so I was actually sleeping outside. Never had to actually use it, but the handful of close calls, definitely made me feel better about evading/running. I have had time to fiddle with this knife and I can have it out and going at a target in no time. I have absolutely no problems running from trouble, but it helps knowing I have something waiting if they chase me 👍🏻

[@NoReply28]

The tons a real life incidents involving knife fight that show how wrong that "you will ALWAYS get cut" statement is... But ok.

[@abstractapproach634]

I carry a kabar, great for can opening, cleaning fingernails, batoning and feathering wood, OK in a pinch for a flathead screwdriver. But as far as self defense goes, *if I'm using my knife, something went wrong; get a gun, the great equalizer.

[@freman007]

@@NoReply28 Yes. Any cut is bad news, so your goal is to avoid it above all else. If you're in an encounter where things go that far, you might have to trade a cut for a kill, taking the hit so as to stop your attacker, but never anything less than that.

[@keithchristie66]

Mini tac for me what a good looking knife 🔪 a really great value at $50.

[@MrWaex]

The TDI it’s perfect 👍

[@Cadwallader38]

What knife should I buy as my first titanium frame lock? I like flippers on washers and tough steels but as long as there's good value I can dig it, the we elementum is priced well and it's a familiar design but I'm also looking at the Kizer THUCK because damn.

[@Ryan-uh2kb]

I have recently bought a Gerber Strongarm fixed blade knife, and I used it a couple times for clearing brush. I would occasionally have it on my side. What’s the biggest sized fixed blade knife that you can legally carry in Tennessee?

[@TheKJMalice]

Here’s a question for DCA/Seth: I’m looking towards a compression lock system to add to the collection, but I really would prefer to keep cost as low as I can. As I’m certain its a design still exclusive to Spyderco, I’m aware that they’ll still be expensive, but what would be the cheapest example I could get my hands on? Thanks for the content, always learn something new here.

[@johnruiz6743]

Vargo makes a titanium/ceramic matrix blade that is tougher than just plain ceramic. I have a foder with it and it works fine. Use it to cut cardboard etc. just as an alternative. Also it will never rust or corrode.

[@barrybaldwin5535]

Regarding the attachment options for the CS Mini-Tac style knives, I have used the "Blade-Tech Quick-E-Loop" attachments for nonstandard sheath hole spacing with great success.

[@adamjohnson7385]

Was looking for the carcass splitter to come out for the tootsie pop question

[@brianbrown4164]

Can you recommend a hard use knife that is too much fun to not carry? Needs to be easy to deploy and not so expensive that my wife beats me. I’ve learned that I really need to enjoy my EDC otherwise I’ll end up leaving it in the truck. Thanks!

[@Knife_guy]

Hey DCA, every time I grab a knife to carry I always open and close it once or twice. It does not matter if it is a fidgety knife or not I still do it. Even a fixed blade I will unsheath it then resheath. My wife has called me out on it and I have no “logical” excuse. Can you or any other viewers relate?

[@pretentiousname01]

Its just like when you pick up a pair of tongs, you have to click them once or twice to make sure they work.

[@garybroshears1634]

For running or edc look at Outdoor Element’s Scout Feather knife. Small, lightweight and has integral sharpener and fire starter on sheath . $49,99

[@carlosmorera0924cm]

Hey DCA, can you make a list of Big Bowie Knives that Rambo would want, I already own the BK9, SP10 and CS marauder, can you recommend any other big bowies to add to my collection?

[@vorpalblades]

Gil Hibben

[@Migh7yb00sh]

DCA, is there a ceo or kwaiken style gentleman’s knife that’s a front flipper? The ceo with the thumb studs is close, but I want as clean and uninterrupted as possible look.

[@bardpitt4049]

Love your videos. Recently got into knife collecting after a very generous gift. Which fixed blade would you suggest for someone who is more into small folders? Thanks for all the content! This channel has been a gateway to this hobby 🙂

[@paultorgerson8776]

Bradford guardian 3

[@bardpitt4049]

@@paultorgerson8776 thanks for the suggestion, I’ll check it out! It’d be my first.

[@stevecochran9078]

I have no problem with D2 steel knives. You could even call me a D2 fan. I have a pair of Benchmades that have peeled and butchered several bears, a couple of wild beef cows and a couple or three moose. I have yet to get a speck of rust on the blades. The skinner went through one sand-encrusted bear, a moose and a two beef cows before I touched up the blade. The bears and cows were in a marine climate.

[@dougbrown7150]

Imo you missed one of the best one of the most versatile fixed blades out there. The bark river bush bat. Light, nuce alignment for day to day cutting and bushcraft but also has a finger loop for defensive retention

[@arrowheadguys7637]

They don't carry Bark River any more. Most likely because the owner is unethical and has screwed over everyone in the knife industry he's run across including Becker and Reeve as I understand it. They're also famous for "mislabeling" steel. As in you pay a premium price for premium steel and get a knife marked saying it is that steel, but its actually some basic tool steel that rusts...even though you paid for stainless. Plenty of documentation out there, I would never give my business to Bark River, despite some gorgeous knives they make. DCA has mentioned "if they ever catch a knife maker mislabeling steel they'll be out the building fast" and I'm pretty sure that was a reference to Bark River, who they used to sell. Very few places sell Bark River anymore. That should tell you everything you need to know.

[@Banana-hammock.]

Great review DCA, no love for the horizontal belt buckle carry? My EDC is a Ka Bar Turok, just hafta offset buckle, to me much more intuitive and comfy.

[@JoeJoe-pn6vf]

DC do you know of any alternative thumb studs that will fit on the buck 110 slim pro trx. They just seem way too big to me. Tried a bench made buyout stud set but it doesn’t fit through the blade.

[@ismailsenel3812]

Would you recommend the Canku c1140 in this category, dimensions and blade wise I find it pretty perfect, but does these knifes have solid quality?

[@tonyvillarreal3610]

I've designed small tanto knives that I carry crossdraw, I also wear a number of knives scout carry and they're concealable The tanto prodigy and the strongarm by gerber, The becker bk16, The kabar Snody big boss. I've even worn the gerber mark2 scout carry

[@kevinmadrigal9090]

For the running bushcraft folks I’d turn to some of Matt Graham’s designs with Condor and Tops, that’s his specialty and the lil’ bugger from Tops seems especially apt for both running questions

[@kanukkarhu]

I enjoy these Q&A type videos. Very cool. I've got a question... Not sure if I'm able to say this correctly, but my question is: are blade serrations really any more effective (on certain materials, as some claim) than a 'properly' sharpened plain edge? My personal experience is that serrations 'saw' through stuff long after the plain edge of a knife is dull, and that gives people (who can't/don't maintain a proper edge) the impression that the serrations cut some materials better. I maintain that an appropriately sharpened edge cuts as well or better than one with serrations. (The only exception would be something hard and plastic, like a zip tie - but with proper leverage, even that is debatable, I feel.) Care to weigh in on this? Thanks!

[@OldBadger1]

I have had a.life time of of knife carry. Military, chef, knife sharpener, guiding and for the last 6 years Kali. My pocket and combat knifes of choice have serrations. Will go through anything and right through anything else. Having said that for hunting bushcraft and kitchen a sharp plain edge. I have some 2 hundred plus knives, when I walk out the door it is usually with a serrated/partially serrated blade.

[@thadboman4340]

I just received my new honey badger large. N amazing action! Very nice knife n the price is amazing!!! Im positive I'll be buying one of each size n probably then. Some great knife n very nice packaging n information with knife. Just great all the way around!

[@e.v.i.]

Hey dca what victorinox large with a lockable blade would you use for edc? Because I live in Greece and knife laws say that you cant carry kives unless you have a professional or good excuse to carry one

[@happy-z4y]

I have a question. If i have a such a knife for survival uses, is it advisable to wear it around my neck like a lanyard ?

[@FLHamExtra]

I’m looking for a fixed blade knife for self-defense as a back up to my CCW. What would you recommend for horizontal Carry?

[@yukon1714]

Hey Sir how come you don’t mention Spyderco knives? The Endurance series of knives are great self-defense light weight and great every day carry knives?

[@joshuasharrock466]

Hey David got an actual question, normally I am just commenting for algorithm... Why aren't more companies making knives out of 14C28N Sandvik? I see Nitro V blowing up everywhere as the top budget ingot and yes it demolishes 8Cr14MoV, it just doesn't hold an edge... Ok I guess I couldn't get by without at least one pun

[@arrowheadguys7637]

My guess? They're getting it cheaper.

[@Cadwallader38]

Or even 12c27, both Kershaw and CRKT used to use sandvik all the time but no more, I think they both sold their souls to the 8cr devil.

[@Ericstraordinary]

12C27 and 14C28N are Swedish steels and 8Cr14Mov is Chinese. I can only imagine the cost of raw materials for making thousands of knives plays a huge role.

[@arrowheadguys7637]

@@Ericstraordinary Not to mention shipping costs for that much steel. Guessing its a lot cheaper shipping from China for all the manufacturers in asia...china included.

[@acid6urns]

nitro v is just upgraded AEB-L id think the edge retention would be comparable on edge retention?

[@billbush1270]

How about a car camping knives setup? Maybe low-low cost, bargain, midrange and "fancy"? I don't hunt or do much more than build a fire and cook and hike on marked trails. I usually take a hatchet along for producing kindling, and I bring a box of firewood which is enough for 2 evening fires. I cook on a gas stove, mainly, though I do have grates and cast iron for cooking over a fire. I'm thinking 3 or 4 inch folder or pocketable fixed blade, a 5 or 6 inch blade for bushcraft stuff, and for some foolish desire, I think an ESSE would be interesting, not that I'd ever do anything that called for such.

[@arrowheadguys7637]

Not sure on the folder, tho the Spydiechef is sure to be the recommendation, but you should ABSOLUTELY buy an ESEE. I was kind of like you, never thought I'd use it as intended, but I keep my ESEE 5 and a dead blow hammer on the back porch to split wood for the fire pit these days. Also have a 4 in S35VN and the 6, all with contoured handles. Find the one you like, buy it, and beat the living snot out of it. Its highly satisfying.

[@martinmorris6271]

The Ka Bar Tdi is nice I highly recommend buying a Kydex sheath that one is garbage. The Socp is awesome and it’s sheath offers so many different ways to carry it.

[@brianbrown4164]

I was recently scrolling the specials section of your website, and I noticed the best deals seemed to be on “non-knife” brands (i.e. 5.11, Ruger, Remington, etc…) Are these good knives? I’ve always been prejudice against “non-knife” brand knives but there are some serious deals on these knives.

[@iangray5742]

For a functional light fixed blade, the crkt spew came to mind. I like the minimilist range but the spew hovers in my "to get " list. Seems versatile for cutting or poking.

[@twatmunro]

Pretty well the whole of the crkt line-up makes me want to spew so it seems unfair to limit the name to a single knife. (Actually, I just googled it and that might be the first crkt knife I genuinely fancied.)

[@alecseekins7916]

Hi DCA! Can you do a episode on all knifes on washers? I do not like knifes that run on bearings because i hard use my knifes and love the feeling of washers

[@JimStephaniePorter]

I would like you to tell what is the best combat, survival knife, and a camp made?

[@marcinos303]

Mora, Bahco 2449 wrecking knife, Sissipuukko M95 Peltonen, Terrava Jakkaripuukko 140.

[@michaelduke2498]

Love this series. What are you best beach knife recommendations?

[@michaelpitts3285]

Would the CRKT Samurai minimalist work for the 4inchish with a horizontal carry?

[@reafkennedy3069]

Personally I really like the cold steel mini-tac for a utility knife. I have one in the tanto blade that I put an ulti clip on and pocket carry it.

[@tapiolaakkonen5350]

Hi! Could you tell does Benchmade Freek and so called super Freek has same blade shape? 🙂

[@josh33025]

Hey DCA, I'm a construction worker and I'm looking for a knife to supplement my razor blade when I would like a longer blade length. Preferably a manual flipper with a thumb stud that would preform well in dusty/dirty conditions under $100.

[@gbullock2598]

My backup knife for self defense is a sog seal pup. My main line of defense is my beretta apx. My backup folding knife is a crkt fossil. Got to stay prepared.

[@pavlepetrovic6846]

👍👍👍😃

[@jn651]

Hey DCA et al, any tips on snugging up a slightly loose plastic sheath (hypothetically, on, say, a Wharncliffe Minimalist)? Much appreciated!

[@Geeios1]

How do belt mounts work, is there a better design?

[@captjinxmarine9832]

The first knife I load everyday is one of my SnW tantos. SBoCoSheriffs have sticky finger. Loss is mitigated by cost.

[@josephlilley9249]

Also if someone doesn't like scratches on their blade they could always stone wash it. I mean yeah stone washing makes alot of scratches but I makes it looks alot better than like one or two scratches on a blade and you can also stone wash any kind of blade with any finish for the most part.

[@kevinstryker6440]

Hey DCA, Thomas and Seth, I want to try rit dyeing for the first time. I am looking at the CJRB tigress because the G10 is white and should take the dye well. My only hang up on that, is that it is a liner locking blade. I would prefer a stronger lock on a hardish use knife. Any ideas? Thanks.

[@dougbrown7150]

Am I doing something wrong on the "western tanto"? I find them a pain to sharpen having to treat the point as a separate edge

[@jhaykus]

Hey DCA, I heard you mention in the video that the K-Bar's AUS-8 steel was not as stainless as you would think. My question is, is AUS-8 more or less stainless than 8cr, since they are close to the same durability and edge retention?

[@mauricebeard9554]

Hello, I'm looking for a EDC fixed blade to carry horizontal. What do you suggest?

[@Pabone175]

I’m looking for your suggestions on something like a Peña Dogleg but “on a budget”. Thanks much. Love the Show!!!

[@slywolfe]

What does DCA have against reverse tantos?