How to Carry A Knife Legally: Into The Fray 166

Published on May 15, 2017
Duration: 4:54

This guide, based on instruction from Kevin Michalowski (Editor of Concealed Carry Magazine) and Mike Janich (Tactical Blade Concepts), details the superior tip-up carry method for tactical folding knives. It emphasizes achieving a master grip while the knife is still in the pocket for faster, more reliable deployment in self-defense scenarios. The guide also highlights the disadvantages and potential safety risks associated with tip-down carry, particularly for assisted-opening knives.

Quick Summary

The superior method for carrying a tactical folding knife is tip-up orientation in your strong-side pocket. This allows for a faster draw, immediate master grip establishment, and quicker blade deployment, crucial for defensive situations. It also offers enhanced safety compared to tip-down carry, which requires extra manipulation and can lead to a non-functional grip under stress.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Tactical Folders
  2. 00:58Tip-Up vs. Tip-Down Carry
  3. 01:10Disadvantages of Tip-Down Carry
  4. 02:16Safety Concerns with Assisted Openers
  5. 02:40Advantages of Tip-Up Carry
  6. 03:15Surreptitious Draw Preparation
  7. 04:00Conclusion and Recommendations

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to carry a tactical folding knife for self-defense?

The most effective method for carrying a tactical folding knife is tip-up orientation in your strong-side pocket. This allows for a faster draw, immediate master grip establishment, and quicker blade deployment, crucial for defensive situations. It also offers enhanced safety compared to tip-down carry.

Why is tip-up knife carry better than tip-down?

Tip-up carry is superior because it allows you to achieve a master grip while the knife is still in your pocket, enabling a faster and more secure deployment. Tip-down carry requires extra manipulation, leading to a slower, less functional grip and increased risk under stress.

What are the safety risks of tip-down knife carry?

Tip-down carry poses a safety risk, especially with assisted-opening knives. If the blade partially deploys accidentally, it opens towards the pocket space, potentially causing injury. Tip-up carry typically keeps the blade spine against the pocket seam, preventing accidental opening.

How does pocket clip placement affect knife carry?

The pocket clip's placement dictates the knife's carry orientation. A clip positioned for tip-up carry ensures the blade point faces upward when closed, facilitating a quicker draw. Conversely, a clip for tip-down carry positions the blade point downward, hindering efficient deployment.

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