Tuesday, September 13, 2005
www.thearmedcitizen.com/knife.htm
Karambit?
(Some material below from Steve Tarani's FAQ at http://www.karambit.com/)
A curved, shortbladed combat knife, "the Karambit as a utility knife. It can be also, however, be used for martial arts. [For] self-defense, the Karambit can be used as a means of ensuring your personal safety in the event you are... attacked.
"What makes the [Tarani] Karambit [somewhat] unique is it's pronounced curving edges and oversized finger ring. Providing maximum safety, the finger ring ensures a positive and non-slip hand-grip allowing optimal functionality in extreme weather conditions, under water, or in any hostile working environment. As a result of its signature curved edges and characteristic finger ring, the Karambit [can be] used for a number of practical functions including utility, personal defense, and martial arts applications."
The use of Tarani Karambits with (his) martial arts training material can probably make you using his (expensive) knives into a formibible opponent. This additional aspect is best suited to law enforcement and military users, though.
The re-emergence of this ancient weapon as a self-defense option is essentially in its infancy and the knife may emerge as one of the best and most concealible self defense options in the next few years.
Tanto point?
(From Wikipedia, the free online encyclopedia.)
"A Tanto is a Japanese blade or small sword. It is a smaller version of the Katana sword and the blade is about 6" to 8" in length. It can stab or it can slash. However, the Tanto knife is designed more to be a stabbing instrument."
A well-made 8" tanto blade will penetrate a car door (with the window rolled up), should you ever need to do that. (Requires above average upper body strength to do this, however.)
Katana?
The Katana is the Japanese longsword (Daito), although many Japanese use this
word generically as a catch all word for sword "katana."
It refers to a specific type of curved, single-edged sword traditionally
used by the Japanese samurai. The scabbard for a katana is referred to as a saya.
It is primarily used for slashing, and can be wielded one- or two-handed (the
second being the most common mode). It is worn with cutting-edge up.
Tanto points are available on both fixed blade and folding knives. The shape of the point and design of the blade gives it more lateral strength than other shapes. These are very rugged knives.
Plain edge or serrated?
The choice of which type of knife edge to get appears mostly to be one of personal preference. In general, avoid edges blades under 3" on that are only partially serrated as they afford little advantage. And keep in mind that once dull, serrated edges can be very challenging to resharpen. One product worth investigating for sharpening serrations is Gatco Sharpeners. But shop around for the best price. And DMT makes good products as well.
If we remain aware that an effective defensive knife will typically have a blade of 3" or more, that it may not be legal to carry without a CCW/CHL permit or even with one, that we may have a problem with John Law if we get into a situation requiring police presence then we may be able to avoid trouble or at least be prepared for surprises.
An effective defensive knife may or may not be legal but certain kinds may be "less legal" and more problematic for a police officer who must confront us, however otherwise law abiding we may be. And civilian users should know to absolutely avoid certain kinds such as (true) switchblades. daggers and dirks.
And, by the time we get to this part of this page we should be aware there may be more effective choices in regard to defense with an edged weapon than an oversized pocket knife or a bargain tactical folder.
Advanced Topics and Links
Choosing a Good Knife
"Even with the wide proliferation of knife manufacturers, good knives are hard to find, and not every knife is suitable for knife combat. There are several factors to consider.
"The size of the knife is very important... a large knife can be uncomfortable to carry and very difficult to conceal. The generally accepted ideal knife size is a blade length of 3 inches and perhaps another 3 or 4 inches for the handle. At that size the knife can be carried comfortably, is of light weight and easy to conceal.
"Quality is another factor which can be very serious in the case of folding knives. A bad quality folding knife can close on the carrier's fingers when striking a target causing self injury. Quality should always be a deciding factor in the case of folding knives. Folding knives are usually chosen because when closed for carry they are small in size, fitting neatly into a trouser pocket.
Unbranded steel types such as 'Stainless Steel' should be avoided as it is [generally] a sign of poor quality. It is preferable to select a special type of steel such as 'stainless steel 420' or 'stainless steel 440'. Other excellent types of steel are also available.
"Finally, a few Full Tang knives come with their own carry system, i.e. a sheath in the form of shoulder, neck or belt carry that allows the user to conceal the knife very easily." Boker makes an excellent rig of this type and it is very sharp and generally a well-respected carry system available for several knives.
Source: http://www.linkbase.org/articles/Knife-Fighting.htm And, another opinion:
"People who like guns like knives. It's not so much a 'weapon thing' as it is a 'craftsmanship thing' and a 'functionality' thing.' In selection, the tool follows the predictable task. In a fight, the blade follows the threat. Picking the knife is like picking the gun. It's not about image. It's about what you're likely to need it for.
"There have been cases of hunters who've used their knives to defend themselves successfully against dangerous animals. There are far fewer cases of cops who've used knives to defend themselves against criminals. What you absolutely do have are cases of private citizens who've used knives to repel lethal assaults by criminals.
"For American gentlemen and 'Ordinary Joes' throughout this century, it has been the utility knife and the 'pen-knife.' The analogy to 'service pistol and backup gun' is achingly obvious."
from Massad Ayoob's, article, Blade,in "Guns Magazine, July 1999
A place to discuss knives. This website makes no claim to speak for or on behalf of the above listed forum.
A recent development in knife design: The Timber Pig. Click for review from "The Martialist"
A less than lethal (but potentially deadly) alternative to knives, the Pocket Stick. for a general article or click here for an article on its use
The Martialist, an online electronic magazine (e-zine) for those who fight unfairly (or aspire to). "...among the handful, dozens, or scores of people whose paths you cross on any given day as you go through your life could be individuals who represent a threat -- and you won't know ahead of time who they are.
As a result you must maintain a perceivable level of alertness when you are out and about. You may choose to take this a step further and seek out the training and the tools -- including legally possessed weapons -- that give you an advantage should an altercation occur."
The Karambit is a tool/knife capable of being used for many different applications. Its basic use that of a common tool – a utility blade, used to open boxes, cut twine, dig holes, etc. Today, it's most commonly owned by collectors and knife enthusiasts. It's also used as a martial-arts training implement. Lastly, it can be used to ensure personal safety should the need arise (i.e, as a personal defense or survival weapon).
THE "CRAWFORD CREDIT CARD KARAMBIT"
Some thoughts about combat knives
Combat knives?
Not defensive knives?
Not survival knives?
That's correct, combat knives, because what we're dancing around on the page above are short, edged weapons with which to do combat with an adversary, an aggressor, a predator, someone who has attempted, is about to attempt or is attempting to put us in serious danger, about to set upon us with malice and intent to do bodily harm.
And among the several differences from a defense using a firearm, this is about preparation for a close up, potentially close-in full body contact encounter.
For this reason, and presuming we are making serious preparations to carry and to use a rugged and lethal tool, something other than a mere pocket knife or a "gentleman's" hunting knife or folder is required. This rules out El Cheapo knives with marginal steel and any which cannot withstand serious lateral torque. The knife must be able not only to stab repeatedly but also to cut repeatedly. Not just through flesh but through possibly thick outer clothing including denim or canvas types of cloth.
If, in the course of using such an instrument for less than deadly encounters, the knife will be used for utility purposes, it MUST be able to maintain an edge. We cannot afford for it to become a (temporarily) useless tool after cutting up boxes, ropes or any materials which will make it less than very, very sharp.
Between such utilitarian use and the next time we get out the sharpening tools, mortal combat may ensue. (Use of a knife for utility purposes has no parallel to using a firearm for such purposes. Guns do not have more than one base function; there are no such things as utility firearms.)
Look, if you are going to cut things which will dull your knife, invest in a keychain box cutter or similar device. (Or go get a box cutter.) Using a defense knife for pedestrian chores does two things. First, it reveals to those around you that you are carrying the knife. Second, it may compromise your readiness to deal with terrible potential eventualities.
So we must chose a combat weapon that can meet several criteria. There is more to a good combat knife than just being able to hold an edge (which will be a given for the purposes of this list). Personal preferences in knife design exist so the following should be considered as ideal criteria.
The blade should be able to withstand a good deal of lateral torque (in case it needs to be twisted). If it is a folder, the point where the blade swivels is its weakest point but it must be able to handle torque almost as well as a fixed blade.
The shape and design of the handle should be conducive to keeping a grip under adverse conditions such as cold weather, the presence of water, sweat or blood. Finger grooves or ergonomic handle design are desirable but a ring for at least one finger may be best. If the knife may be used with gloves, the finger hole must be able to accomodate the gloves. While there are many excellent all steel knives, material to give more volume to the grip facilitates holding on to the knife in the presence of cold, water or blood.
It must be pointed out that while deep finger grooves or a finger hole greatly improve the grip on a knife, they will also adversely affect the ability to change the grip or hands in mid-fight and will usually require both hands to change the direction of the blade in the hand.
In other words, an "ordinary" pocket knife and many inexpensive tactical folders simply will not serve well as defensive weapons. If you are going to carry a defensive knife, think it through. Get what you need. Don't scrimp any more than you have to. (But buying a moderately priced is fine if it is what you need, what you want.)
Seen on the 'Net:"If you only have a $50 life, get a $50 knife."
(Some material below from Steve Tarani's FAQ at http://www.karambit.com/)
A curved, shortbladed combat knife, "the Karambit as a utility knife. It can be also, however, be used for martial arts. [For] self-defense, the Karambit can be used as a means of ensuring your personal safety in the event you are... attacked.
"What makes the [Tarani] Karambit [somewhat] unique is it's pronounced curving edges and oversized finger ring. Providing maximum safety, the finger ring ensures a positive and non-slip hand-grip allowing optimal functionality in extreme weather conditions, under water, or in any hostile working environment. As a result of its signature curved edges and characteristic finger ring, the Karambit [can be] used for a number of practical functions including utility, personal defense, and martial arts applications."
The use of Tarani Karambits with (his) martial arts training material can probably make you using his (expensive) knives into a formibible opponent. This additional aspect is best suited to law enforcement and military users, though.
The re-emergence of this ancient weapon as a self-defense option is essentially in its infancy and the knife may emerge as one of the best and most concealible self defense options in the next few years.
Tanto point?
(From Wikipedia, the free online encyclopedia.)
"A Tanto is a Japanese blade or small sword. It is a smaller version of the Katana sword and the blade is about 6" to 8" in length. It can stab or it can slash. However, the Tanto knife is designed more to be a stabbing instrument."
A well-made 8" tanto blade will penetrate a car door (with the window rolled up), should you ever need to do that. (Requires above average upper body strength to do this, however.)
Katana?
The Katana is the Japanese longsword (Daito), although many Japanese use this
word generically as a catch all word for sword "katana."
It refers to a specific type of curved, single-edged sword traditionally
used by the Japanese samurai. The scabbard for a katana is referred to as a saya.
It is primarily used for slashing, and can be wielded one- or two-handed (the
second being the most common mode). It is worn with cutting-edge up.
Tanto points are available on both fixed blade and folding knives. The shape of the point and design of the blade gives it more lateral strength than other shapes. These are very rugged knives.
Plain edge or serrated?
The choice of which type of knife edge to get appears mostly to be one of personal preference. In general, avoid edges blades under 3" on that are only partially serrated as they afford little advantage. And keep in mind that once dull, serrated edges can be very challenging to resharpen. One product worth investigating for sharpening serrations is Gatco Sharpeners. But shop around for the best price. And DMT makes good products as well.
If we remain aware that an effective defensive knife will typically have a blade of 3" or more, that it may not be legal to carry without a CCW/CHL permit or even with one, that we may have a problem with John Law if we get into a situation requiring police presence then we may be able to avoid trouble or at least be prepared for surprises.
An effective defensive knife may or may not be legal but certain kinds may be "less legal" and more problematic for a police officer who must confront us, however otherwise law abiding we may be. And civilian users should know to absolutely avoid certain kinds such as (true) switchblades. daggers and dirks.
And, by the time we get to this part of this page we should be aware there may be more effective choices in regard to defense with an edged weapon than an oversized pocket knife or a bargain tactical folder.
Advanced Topics and Links
Choosing a Good Knife
"Even with the wide proliferation of knife manufacturers, good knives are hard to find, and not every knife is suitable for knife combat. There are several factors to consider.
"The size of the knife is very important... a large knife can be uncomfortable to carry and very difficult to conceal. The generally accepted ideal knife size is a blade length of 3 inches and perhaps another 3 or 4 inches for the handle. At that size the knife can be carried comfortably, is of light weight and easy to conceal.
"Quality is another factor which can be very serious in the case of folding knives. A bad quality folding knife can close on the carrier's fingers when striking a target causing self injury. Quality should always be a deciding factor in the case of folding knives. Folding knives are usually chosen because when closed for carry they are small in size, fitting neatly into a trouser pocket.
Unbranded steel types such as 'Stainless Steel' should be avoided as it is [generally] a sign of poor quality. It is preferable to select a special type of steel such as 'stainless steel 420' or 'stainless steel 440'. Other excellent types of steel are also available.
"Finally, a few Full Tang knives come with their own carry system, i.e. a sheath in the form of shoulder, neck or belt carry that allows the user to conceal the knife very easily." Boker makes an excellent rig of this type and it is very sharp and generally a well-respected carry system available for several knives.
Source: http://www.linkbase.org/articles/Knife-Fighting.htm And, another opinion:
"People who like guns like knives. It's not so much a 'weapon thing' as it is a 'craftsmanship thing' and a 'functionality' thing.' In selection, the tool follows the predictable task. In a fight, the blade follows the threat. Picking the knife is like picking the gun. It's not about image. It's about what you're likely to need it for.
"There have been cases of hunters who've used their knives to defend themselves successfully against dangerous animals. There are far fewer cases of cops who've used knives to defend themselves against criminals. What you absolutely do have are cases of private citizens who've used knives to repel lethal assaults by criminals.
"For American gentlemen and 'Ordinary Joes' throughout this century, it has been the utility knife and the 'pen-knife.' The analogy to 'service pistol and backup gun' is achingly obvious."
from Massad Ayoob's, article, Blade,in "Guns Magazine, July 1999
A place to discuss knives. This website makes no claim to speak for or on behalf of the above listed forum.
A recent development in knife design: The Timber Pig. Click for review from "The Martialist"
A less than lethal (but potentially deadly) alternative to knives, the Pocket Stick. for a general article or click here for an article on its use
The Martialist, an online electronic magazine (e-zine) for those who fight unfairly (or aspire to). "...among the handful, dozens, or scores of people whose paths you cross on any given day as you go through your life could be individuals who represent a threat -- and you won't know ahead of time who they are.
As a result you must maintain a perceivable level of alertness when you are out and about. You may choose to take this a step further and seek out the training and the tools -- including legally possessed weapons -- that give you an advantage should an altercation occur."
The Karambit is a tool/knife capable of being used for many different applications. Its basic use that of a common tool – a utility blade, used to open boxes, cut twine, dig holes, etc. Today, it's most commonly owned by collectors and knife enthusiasts. It's also used as a martial-arts training implement. Lastly, it can be used to ensure personal safety should the need arise (i.e, as a personal defense or survival weapon).
THE "CRAWFORD CREDIT CARD KARAMBIT"
Some thoughts about combat knives
Combat knives?
Not defensive knives?
Not survival knives?
That's correct, combat knives, because what we're dancing around on the page above are short, edged weapons with which to do combat with an adversary, an aggressor, a predator, someone who has attempted, is about to attempt or is attempting to put us in serious danger, about to set upon us with malice and intent to do bodily harm.
And among the several differences from a defense using a firearm, this is about preparation for a close up, potentially close-in full body contact encounter.
For this reason, and presuming we are making serious preparations to carry and to use a rugged and lethal tool, something other than a mere pocket knife or a "gentleman's" hunting knife or folder is required. This rules out El Cheapo knives with marginal steel and any which cannot withstand serious lateral torque. The knife must be able not only to stab repeatedly but also to cut repeatedly. Not just through flesh but through possibly thick outer clothing including denim or canvas types of cloth.
If, in the course of using such an instrument for less than deadly encounters, the knife will be used for utility purposes, it MUST be able to maintain an edge. We cannot afford for it to become a (temporarily) useless tool after cutting up boxes, ropes or any materials which will make it less than very, very sharp.
Between such utilitarian use and the next time we get out the sharpening tools, mortal combat may ensue. (Use of a knife for utility purposes has no parallel to using a firearm for such purposes. Guns do not have more than one base function; there are no such things as utility firearms.)
Look, if you are going to cut things which will dull your knife, invest in a keychain box cutter or similar device. (Or go get a box cutter.) Using a defense knife for pedestrian chores does two things. First, it reveals to those around you that you are carrying the knife. Second, it may compromise your readiness to deal with terrible potential eventualities.
So we must chose a combat weapon that can meet several criteria. There is more to a good combat knife than just being able to hold an edge (which will be a given for the purposes of this list). Personal preferences in knife design exist so the following should be considered as ideal criteria.
The blade should be able to withstand a good deal of lateral torque (in case it needs to be twisted). If it is a folder, the point where the blade swivels is its weakest point but it must be able to handle torque almost as well as a fixed blade.
The shape and design of the handle should be conducive to keeping a grip under adverse conditions such as cold weather, the presence of water, sweat or blood. Finger grooves or ergonomic handle design are desirable but a ring for at least one finger may be best. If the knife may be used with gloves, the finger hole must be able to accomodate the gloves. While there are many excellent all steel knives, material to give more volume to the grip facilitates holding on to the knife in the presence of cold, water or blood.
It must be pointed out that while deep finger grooves or a finger hole greatly improve the grip on a knife, they will also adversely affect the ability to change the grip or hands in mid-fight and will usually require both hands to change the direction of the blade in the hand.
In other words, an "ordinary" pocket knife and many inexpensive tactical folders simply will not serve well as defensive weapons. If you are going to carry a defensive knife, think it through. Get what you need. Don't scrimp any more than you have to. (But buying a moderately priced is fine if it is what you need, what you want.)
Seen on the 'Net:"If you only have a $50 life, get a $50 knife."
