Why you should bring a knife to a gunfight #military #tips #specialforces

Published on March 9, 2026
Duration: 1:01

This expert-level guide from Tactical Rifleman demonstrates why a knife is a superior secondary weapon in close-quarters engagements compared to a pistol. The instructor, equipped in full tactical gear, explains how a knife's design inherently offers better retention against disarming attempts and can be used to create vital space for disengagement and re-engagement with a firearm.

Quick Summary

In close-quarters combat, a knife is a superior secondary weapon to a pistol due to its inherent retention advantage. An opponent cannot easily disarm a knife without self-injury, unlike a pistol. The knife's primary use is to create space by targeting vital areas, allowing for disengagement and re-acquisition of your primary firearm.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Pistol Retention Challenges
  2. 00:20Knife as Secondary Weapon
  3. 00:30Knife Retention Advantage
  4. 00:40Using Knife for Space Creation

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is a knife better than a pistol as a secondary weapon in close quarters?

A knife offers superior retention because an opponent cannot grab the blade without injuring themselves, unlike a pistol where they can gain equal purchase and disarm you. This makes the knife a more reliable tool for close-range defense.

What is the primary goal when using a knife in a close-quarters fight?

The primary goal is not necessarily to inflict a kill shot, but to create enough space to disengage from the immediate threat. This allows you to then draw your primary firearm, such as a pistol or long gun, and re-engage from a safer distance.

What should you do if an opponent tries to disarm your pistol at close range?

Instead of drawing a secondary firearm, you should leave your pistol holstered and draw your knife. The knife's design makes it much harder to disarm than a pistol in such a scenario.

How can a knife be used to create space in a close-quarters engagement?

By holding the knife with the blade facing outwards, you can target vital areas like the carotid arteries or kidneys. This action is intended to create enough distance and opportunity to disengage from the attacker.

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