Fixed Blade Knife Carry Positions

Published on August 10, 2020
Duration: 8:52

This guide details the advantages of lateral versus vertical fixed blade knife carry positions, particularly in defensive scenarios. It demonstrates how vertical carry can be compromised when an opponent traps the weapon hand, making deployment difficult. The instructor emphasizes using hip movement and environmental leverage to overcome such situations, advocating for lateral carry as a potentially more accessible option when pinned. The guide also covers techniques for disengaging a trapped knife and prioritizing hand damage to an attacker.

Quick Summary

Lateral or horizontal fixed blade knife carry positions are generally superior for self-defense compared to vertical (12-to-6) carry. Vertical carry is vulnerable to an opponent trapping your weapon hand, hindering deployment. Lateral positions offer better accessibility when pinned or in close quarters, allowing for quicker access to your blade.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Knife Carry Positions
  2. 00:07Vertical (12-to-6) Carry Issues
  3. 00:17Scenario: Opponent Traps Weapon Hand
  4. 01:09Difficulty of Vertical Draw Under Pressure
  5. 01:24Lateral Carry Advantages
  6. 01:41Demonstration: Lateral Draw Under Trap
  7. 01:53Hip Movement for Knife Deployment
  8. 02:09Double-Edged Knife Considerations
  9. 02:14Grip Techniques and Hand Damage
  10. 02:36Utilizing the Environment (Wall)
  11. 02:41Scenario: Pinned Against a Surface
  12. 03:32Cross Draw and Hip Jerk Technique
  13. 03:51Wrist Roll and Thumb Control
  14. 04:14Conclusion: Lateral vs. Scout Carry
  15. 04:21Personal Carry Preference: Appendix Horizontal
  16. 04:35Critique of Vertical Carry Experts
  17. 04:51Problems with Vertical Carry Under Pressure
  18. 05:19Final Thoughts on Lateral vs. Vertical

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main disadvantage of carrying a fixed blade knife vertically?

Carrying a fixed blade knife vertically (12-to-6) is disadvantageous because an opponent can easily 'stuff' or trap your weapon hand, making it extremely difficult to draw the knife effectively in a self-defense situation.

How can you deploy a trapped fixed blade knife from a vertical carry position?

If your weapon hand is trapped while carrying vertically, you can attempt to disengage by jerking your hips backward at an angle corresponding to your sheath's orientation. This creates space and can help free the knife, especially if you aren't pinned against a solid object.

What is a recommended alternative carry position for a fixed blade knife in self-defense?

Lateral or horizontal carry positions are often recommended as alternatives to vertical carry. These positions generally offer better accessibility and a quicker draw when your weapon hand is trapped or you are in close proximity to an opponent or obstacle.

What should be the priority if you successfully draw a knife while your hand is trapped?

If you manage to draw your knife while your hand was trapped, your immediate priority should be to inflict damage on the attacker's hands. This neutralizes their ability to grip and control your weapon or further restrain you.

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