Using a Knife for Self Defense

Did you know that there were over 300,000 robbery cases in 2017 alone? Someone could try to mug you while you're out walking, at a store, or even in the safety of your home.

This is the reason you should invest in a self defense kit.

A kit should carry everything you need to protect yourself from harm. One of the items you'll need is a weapon to fend off assailants. Consider getting a knife for self defense before investing in a gun or big weapon.

Why a knife? Consider the reasons a knife is an excellent self defense tool with our list below:

1. Never Run Out of Ammunition

There's no denying the stopping power of a gun. One detriment is that its efficiency ends as soon as you run out of ammunition. You can't fire with an empty chamber.

A gun with no bullets becomes a glorified blunt weapon for whacking.

Knives don't have this problem. Knives don't rely on ammunition and even a blunt knife can still cause a lot of damage to an assailant. Even the mere sight of one could already scare off any would-be attackers.

This also means you won't need to keep spending on ammunition. The only additional expense is a sharpener for your knife. This ensures it can cut through thick clothing or rope.

2. Rarely Miss Your Target

Ever noticed how rare it is for movie heroes to miss their targets when firing a gun? That's not the case in real life! Firing a gun in the real world is a risky action.

You could miss your shot due to several factors. Don't forget that unholstering your gun, taking it off the safety lock, aiming, and firing requires time and precision. You won't get a lot of clear opportunities during an emergency.

A knife will almost always hit the target. Even if you fail to stab your assailant, the side of the blade will still cut them. The hilt and the handle can deal blunt damage as well.

3. Won't Harm Bystanders

Misfiring a gun has two consequences. Not only did you fail to stop the assailant but you also risk harming a bystander. This increases the number of people harmed during an encounter.

A knife is a far more precise weapon of self defense. It requires close-quarters combat, meaning you will only direct it towards an immediate threat. The only person you'll stab or slash is the assailant, the threat right in front of you.

Knives also can't hurt multiple people at once. You can't accidentally squeeze a trigger and shoot a ton of people at once. There's no risk of harming bystanders from a distance.

4. Easier to Conceal and Carry

Carrying other types of self defense weapons is no easy task. Consider the permits and licenses required to own and carry a gun. Other self defense weapons, like tasers or pepper sprays, have different requirements depending on where you live.

For most places, carrying a knife is no big deal. You don't need a license to buy a knife. Using it offensively can get you in trouble, but not if you only rely on it to protect yourself.

Concealing a knife is also easier when compared to other weapons. There are subtle self defense knife designs that hide the blade, for example. You can fold some knives or buy knives with camouflage colors.

5. Less Training Required

Have you ever held a gun?

It's a lot more complicated than some people assume. You need to learn not only how to fire it but also how to carry and maintain it. Guns can become effective self defense tools but you'll need a lot of practice and professional training to use them safely and effectively.

This doesn't mean you won't need training for knives. The good news is that the training isn't as rigorous. You can stick with basic self defense knife training and decide later on if you want to get even better.

What kind of basics should you learn first? Prioritize safety training so you don't hurt yourself when using a knife.

6. Easier to Purchase

Anyone who owns a pepper spray or pistol can tell you the difficult process of buying those weapons. You need to find a specialty seller and you need to secure the right permits, licenses, and proof of training. It's not as simple as walking into a mall to buy a gun.

Buying a knife has no such restrictions. You can find all types of blades at a shopping center or online store. There are also specialty providers, like us, that sell knives specifically made for self-protection.

Found a knife you like? You don't need a permit to get it. You don't need to be over 21 years old.

7. Knives are Multi-Purpose Tools

Another reason to consider buying knives is the fact they can do more than protect you during a mugging or break-in incident. If someone tied you, for example, you can use a knife to break free and escape. You can use a knife to break a lock too.

Out in the wild? You can use a knife to hunt down wildlife for food. A knife is also a good tool to chop small pieces of wood, flint, or other materials. You might need a knife to cut cloth for a makeshift bandage or to tie materials together.

Benefits of Knives for Self Defense

Personal knives are small, portable, and easy to conceal, but these are only a few of the many benefits that a self defense knife has to offer.

Unlike other personal defense weapons, knives can be used in both close-range and mid-range confrontations. This makes them a prime candidate when choosing one of your first self defense weapons.

As a beginner, you may be wondering if you’re ready to handle a knife.

Don’t worry, personal-defense knives come in many styles that are fit for both experienced and inexperienced knife handlers. Whether you are a trained martial artist or new to the world of self defense, a knife is a great tool to begin your practice with.

Types of Knives

There are three main types of self defense knives that every beginner should be aware of:

• Fixed blades
• Folding knives
• Hidden weapons

Each type of defense knife features a different strength and one may be better suited for specific situations over others. When it comes to deciding which type of knife is right for you, you should consider where you may be likely to use the knife and how you would like to be able to access your knife.

The Tradition of Fixed Blades

Traditionally, fixed blades are the preferred choice for knife handlers because of their ease of access and larger scale.

Handling a fixed blade can be more comfortable for beginners because they are already accustomed to handling them in familiar settings like the kitchen. Fixed blades that have been properly manufactured can withstand damage from the elements and weathering that naturally occurs over time.

It is important to note that in order for a fixed blade to be portable, a sheath is necessary.

If you would like to use your fixed blade in a real-world setting, then it must be properly concealed so that you remain protected while carrying it. Although a sheath may seem like an added investment, it’s worth considering if you would like your fixed blade to be a practical self defense weapon.

The Ease of Folding Knives

Folding knives remain popular for their ability to be easily concealed and carried in a variety of settings.

These knives come in a wide range of styles ranging from the multi-use pocket knife to the advanced butterfly knife. Understanding how the knife’s locking mechanism functions is a foundational rule before being able to safely use the knife while practicing or in a real-world scenario.

Another thing to keep in mind is the speed at which you will be able to access your knife.

Unlike fixed blades that you can quickly remove from a sheath, a folding blade takes time and training to understand how to unlock and lock your blade into its offensive position. That being said, with the proper education, a folding blade can be your greatest ally- especially while you are on the go.

The Stealth of Hidden Weapons

Looking for something inconspicuous?

Hidden weapons are not just for the spy movies. In fact, they boast tons of real-world applications as well. Although stealth weapons may not be as mighty as a fixed or folded blade, their ability to be easily hidden and used makes them a top contender for new knife handlers.

Did you know that knives can be hidden in everyday objects like ink pens or combs?

That’s right. Don’t let their smaller blade size fool you. These hidden weapons can still get the job done when the opportunity presents itself. Read our blog post: What are pen knives?

So, if you aren’t prepared to carry an obvious blade in your pocket, then these stealthy knives are the perfect option for you.

Gripping Self Defense Knives

Many factors will contribute to your desired grip application when it comes to handling your new knife. Here are some things to keep in mind:

• Forward or reverse grip
• Knife handle texture
• Finger groove size

These factors are important when considering the variety of settings you could use your knife in. For example, if it’s raining, then a handle with a smooth texture may actually prove to be a disadvantage.

If you prefer a knife with a certain grip direction, remember that in an actual altercation you may not be able to decide which way you are able to handle your knife. The most important thing is to always make sure your knife is comfortable to use in any position. This gives you the best chance at defending yourself if a confrontation should occur.

Self Defense Knife Training

Now that you are more educated on the types of knives that exist, their specialties, and how to grip them, it’s time to seek the proper training. Knowing how to handle your blade is the first step in being able to protect yourself to the best of your ability.

Make sure that you gain knowledge from reputable resources that are up to date with the current knife-carrying legislation in your state. This ensures that you do not run into any problems while carrying your new self defense knife in public settings.

Keep the Best Knife for Self Defense

Now you know the different advantages of using a knife for self defense. You don't need ammunition, it can't miss, and you don't risk harming bystanders. They also serve multiple purposes, and getting a knife isn't as difficult as buying a gun.

Looking for the right knife? Do you want a knife specifically for self-protection?

Search no more because we've got what you need. Check out our selection knives for self defense or get in touch with us today so we can help you find the best self defense knife today.