Knives can be underrated as a self-defense weapon with many people opting to go for a gun where the law allows it. However, knives are far more legal and practical than guns so it might make more sense to consider one. One could even consider a knife to be more advantageous than a firearm depending on the situation. Keep in mind, there are many styles and options with knives so one might be better for you than the other. Here are our 5 favourites for self defense.
Ka-Bar TDI Compact Knife – $25-$35
There is a reason why this knife is amongst the most popular knife carried by law enforcement, and I have carried it on the job for years now. This is a drop-point style blade made out of AUS 8A steel with a blade length of 3 inches. The design is awesome, allowing this knife to be carried on your strong or weak side, making it very easy to carry. This is the cheapest fixed blade knife on the list coming in at $25-35.
Spyderco Civilian G-10 Personal Defense Knife – $200-250
In the 1990s, Spyderco was contracted by undercover US law enforcement agents to make a knife that would be suitable for them to carry in the field and thus the G-10 Civilian was born. The civilian has a reverse S blade that is intended to be used like an oversized claw. The blade is 4 inches in length and made from VG-10 steel that is very sharp. The ergonomic design it is meant for use and retention in defensive situations, not everyday knife use.
Benchmade Infidel 133BK Knife – $200-$220
Benchmade makes some incredible knives and their Infidel 133BK fixed blade knife is no different. With a 4.5 inch full tang blade made out of D2 tool steel, you are getting a sharp blade. They have made it double-edge and paired it with anodized aluminum scales that combined provide incredible cutting ability to maximum retention. All the good things you want in a knife fight.
CRKT Clever Girl Straight Edge Knife – $80-$100
CRKT worked with several current and former military personnel to create the Clever Girl. It is a fixed blade tactical knife that has an upswept blade designed for close quarter battle situations. The blade is 4.5 inches in length and made from SK-5 steel that is incredibly sharp. The upswept blade is full tang and the knife itself is easy to handle and draw.
Kershaw Brawler – $25-35
The cheapest folder on the list but do not underestimate it. It has a 3 inch tanto blade made of 8Cr13MoV steel and it is specifically designed for close quarter contact. If you read other reviews on this knife you’ll notice it doesn’t score well and that’s because it’s being reviewed as a EDC knife not as a self defense knife. With a good blade length, this tanto blade style is going to be extremely effective in to cause damage quickly without a lot of force. This is probably why Kershaw named it the “Brawler”. Unbelievable value for $25-35!
Stay sharp!
