As I’ve stated before, a multi-purpose item in your kit is a major plus. A knife certainly qualifies. Bear in mind, the knife for your GHB is like the flashlight for your GHB. The one in your pocket (for EDC) counts only as a back-up. The one for your bag is a separate item altogether. Your EDC knife is likely going to be a folder of some sort. The knife you keep in your GHB (in my opinion) needs to be a fixed-blade, with as full of a tang as possible. There are countless options available and you really have to pick what is best for you.
In my opinion, a blade length of 4-6 inches is just fine. Anything shorter tends to not accomplish all the larger tasks I need done. Anything longer can be too long to use for the smaller stuff, not to mention bulky. Having a knife too big to use for the finer work is infuriating. For any situations where I see myself having to use my GHB, I truly don’t see myself having to baton wood and I’m certainly not planning on using some big Crocodile Dundee knife for self-defense, that’s what the pistol is for. But, a 4-6 inch blade could most definitely be used for defense if needed.
I don’t get too caught up in blade shape. As long as there is somewhat of a curve to the blade, I’m good. I don’t really like the tanto style blades as I can’t sharpen them as quickly. I also don’t worry too much about the type of steel used. I go for knife companies with good reputation and trust that they use the steel necessary to earn that reputation. I’m no metallurgist. I generally buy knives from Kershaw, Morakniv and Gerber. They are affordable and get the job done.
As for personal defense, or carrying in general, know the laws for your area. Different jurisdictions have different laws as to what can be carried. Don’t let your gear get you into a legal bind. Follow the laws of your area. Using a knife for self-defense can also have its own legal consequences. Going hand-in-hand with that, get training before you use a knife for self-defense. Many people seem to have this idea that they will be the next Rambo if they have a knife in their hands. Don’t be arrogant. Training is the only way to become proficient with anything, whether it be cooking, driving, of knife handling.
As for a multi-tool, have one of these as well. Multi-tools allow for use in many different situations. I’ve used one to fix all sorts of things. They are handy little tools. Many styles have everything from a can opener and screwdriver to… oh look, a knife blade. Some of these tools are quite large and heavy. Some of them are quite small and light. Don’t try to carry a multi-tool that has everything your toolbox holds. You’ll just weigh yourself down with lots of unnecessary items. My go-to brands are Gerber and Leatherman. Both have great reputations, great quality, and a wide range of options.
Another item to keep in mind is a knife sharpener. If you are using your knife, it will get dull. A basic knife sharpener can freshen up a blade allowing further use. These can be had for just a few dollars and take up little room.
Don’t’ just prepare. Prepare to thrive.
Good article.
I too don’t like tanto blades.
They may be most people’s favored shape but IMHO not as strong as a conventional “sheath” knife. To me they are more of a FAD than a utility tool.
Anyone reading this in the UK remember! If your multi-tool individual tools are lockable open (including the blade on a multi-tool, it’s classified as as a lock knife and therefore illegal.
With knife sharpeners, I prefer a common carbide sharpener design. The donut shape as used in home kitchens. The why is in low light, no light, basic sharpening is all you need. I use the unglazed china mug base for fine honing.
The only problem is their grind is a fixed basic 15-20 degree angle (slicing) that won’t work on some grinds or on some top quality steels. To the extent that they will wreck the edge for good.
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Great thoughts on this! I carry a multi tool everyday, but it’s a basic needs tool. The multi tool in my bag is the bigger more robust Leatherman Surge. It just would be better for bigger things. I also feel like a fixed blade is good to carry a fixed blade, but there is no way the 3 in blade I carry would do any significant “shelter building” or any thing. Like what you said, your bag gear should be primary in that situation and edc should be a back up. Good post!
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