About Knife Self-Defense

Knife self-defense is a matter of great controversy. Many people carry knives to protect themselves even though it is illegal in some areas. Unfortunately, many who carry a knife for self-defense potentially harm themselves more than they can protect their themselves. A knife is a practical self-defense weapon only if the user is trained to fight with it. An untrained knife fighter runs the risk of being stabbed with his own weapon, making his situation worse than if he did not have a knife at all.

History

The knife has been used for self-defense since the dawn of mankind. Knives were first carved out of stone and later forged out of metal. Soon after knives were invented, the study of their use developed. Many martial arts study the use of a knife and defense from someone wielding one.

Types

Knives come in many shapes and sizes. Some only have a point, some are sharpened on one edge, some are sharpened on both edges. Some are straight while others curve. Some have fixed blades while others fold into the handle. Some are shorter than your finger while others are as long as your arm. When a bladed weapon requires the use of two hands, it is called a sword rather than a knife.

Considerations

When choosing a knife for self-defense, you must consider the practicality of the weapon. Longer fixed blades are better for self-defense. They allow you to draw the weapon faster and be further away from an attacker. This makes it more likely that you will cut the attacker before he can touch you. However, it is not practical to carry around a long knife. A small folding knife is much more portable but far less effective for self-defense. You also need to find it and open it before you can use it. A double-edge knife can cut the attacker while you swing both ways but also doubles the chances of you cutting yourself. You must consider all these factors before choosing a knife for self-defense.

Function

Martial artists trained in the use of a knife use variations of a parry-and-cut technique. The object is to disable the attacker as quickly as possible so that you can get away. Knife self-defense is not flashy or intricate like in the movies. Knife fights do not last long and it is virtually impossible to block a knife with a knife. Instead, trained martial artists block or move out of the way of an attacker's weapon, then strike gaps in his guard. The knife fight is usually over after the first blow. Since it is likely that both fighters will be cut in a knife fight, it is imperative that anyone carrying a knife be trained in its use. You must have the confidence to know what to do in a real life-threatening situation and not panic if you get a little cut. An untrained person will likely have his knife taken from him and used against him in a real fight. It is better to not carry a knife if you do not know how to use it.

Warning

Different areas have different laws regarding carrying a knife for self-defense. Some places limit the size of the blade or the type of knife. Butterfly knives and switchblades are illegal in most areas. Some areas have specific rules about concealing a knife or having access to one while inside a vehicle.

Who Can HelpSponsored

• Tired of Being Tired? Fight Fatigue and Try FRS for FREE!

[malyshaz]

on 2/25/2009 It is true that every state has there own laws about knives, but butterfly knives are only outlawed in massachusetts and California. You can also get around the switch blade law by buying a "Spring Assisted" knife. This is a knife with a spring to help it open faster. Please check your local knife laws before deciding to carry a knife.