It only takes five seconds in any 2A social media group to find photos of EDC (Everyday Carry) rigs that incorporate knives. It’s wonderful to see so many people advocating for preparedness, but it begs the question of what they’re preparing for. Some have a firm grasp of the benefit of having a knife always ready to assist with certain tasks while others believe it to be weapon. The latter is where a huge misconception lies within self-advocacy regarding protection.
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Depending on a knife for self-defense isn’t as simple as we think. Logically carrying a sharp blade would seem to be a viable weapon in a threat situation. A 
threat presents itself; we pull our knife and magically we have the upper hand. This couldn’t be further from the truth. Unless you’re Wolverine or Edward Scissor Hands where the blade is literally one with you, training is a must. We must think beyond just putting a knife in our pocket, we have to comprehend the applications of knife fighting. In self-defense the best way to ensure survival is maintaining distance. This is why strong situational awareness is a must. If you’re in a threat situation where you’re relying on your knife you’ve lost the distance advantage and are now in close quarter hand to hand combat. Understanding the difference between stabbing or slashing and where to do so is crucial – as well as how to physically move, fight and guard yourself. Without this knowledge and training you’re going to be in a free for all wrestling match swinging and thrusting a blade with the hope of making contact and getting away. Mental preparedness is also crucial. Once we begin a knife fight, violence of action is key as we must become the aggressor. Without training this is very difficult to achieve. The mental shock and stress that accompany knife fighting can be overwhelming. The blood, smells and sounds are beyond what most of us have ever seen. It’s very common to freeze in shock before succeeding in self-defense. To properly be able to utilize a knife for self-defense extensive training is required.
For those not properly trained in knife fighting self-defense tactics, knives should primarily be used as a tool for everyday needs. Anything you need a sharp edge for can be quickly handled with an easy to access blade. In addition, knives are a great go-to tool in emergent or first aid situations. Understanding this, the type of knife you choose is important. An EDC knife should be reliable and sturdy with a blade that retains its edge. Finding one that ergonomically fits your hand is also important. The better it fits our hand, the more we will utilize it. Additionally, don’t skimp on cost. When it comes to knives you get what you pay for. Paying a little more should be considered a worthwhile investment when it comes to your EDC gear. The following are great starting points if you’re trying to find a strong EDC knife.
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Spyderco Delica
This is one of my personal EDC knives and among my top three. The Delica has a flat saber-ground VG-10 stainless steel blade just under 3” that is partially serrated and coated with black titanium carbonitride. The original thumb hole on the blade allows ambidextrous one-hand opening for right or left-handed use. Well made and reliable, Spyderco has a vast assortment of quality choices when it comes to EDC knives.
Kershaw Launch 4 CA Legal Automatic Knife
The Launch Series offer a compelling design, fast action, high-performance materials and they’re made in the USA. The Launch 4 knife has a California-legal blade and ridiculously fast action. The symmetry in design, both the 6061-T6 aluminum handle and spear point blade, adds an element of distinction. Following the tradition of its predecessors, the Launch 4 has a bulls-eye pattern red firing button and a tip-up carry pocket clip. This is a great EDC knife choice as it’s small, efficient, reliable and fast.
Sandrin TCK 2.0 Slipjoint
The TCK 2.0 is an ultra-thin gentleman’s folder. This is another one of my personal choices in knives and by far the sharpest. Sandrin knives are equipped with their patented Polyhedral Tugsten Carbide and boasts a Rockwell Hardenss of 71 HRC which outperforms steel and is scientifically proven to retain its edge longer than any other EDC knife on the market. The TCK 2.0 is a seriously sharp knife designed to cut without becoming dull while also requiring very minimal sharpening.
Carrying and EDC knife requires more than just throwing it in your pocket. Handling it and becoming familiar your EDC knife is highly beneficial. The more you work with your knife and develop your handling skills, the more confident you will become. If utilizing a knife as a weapon is something you desire, training is crucial. Seek an instructor that truly understands knives in this application. Someone who can demonstrate the skills themselves and also understands the mental conditioning that should accompany this training.
Karen Hunter, GetZone.com Contributor
