About Tactical Folding Knives
Tactical folding knives are designed with many of the same features as their fixed-blade counter parts. However, the folding design allows for more versatility in regard to carry positions. Tactical folding knives are designed with the specific purpose of providing law enforcement or military personnel with a tool that is capable of functioning in a real world environment. These knives are often carried as last resort backup weapons.
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Significance
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For law enforcement and military personnel, there are many situations which may require the implementation of a sharp cutting instrument. However, due to real world scenarios, many knives may not have the cutting features or blade metal hardness required to properly perform and accomplish the job. Tactical folding knives are designed with these needs in mind, along with the realization that a folding knife is much more practical as well as easily concealable.
Function
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The tactical folding knife will function in much the same way as a normal folding knife in most respects. The knife is carried in the pocket or clipped to a vest or pack. To use, the owner will remove and open the knife, which extends the blade to a position where it is typically locked into place.
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Types
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There are differences in types of tactical folders in regard to handle material and locking type. However, the primary difference in type is found in the blade design. Tactical folders are available with drop point, tanto, modified tanto, clip point, and other blade variations. Blades are designed with specific types of cutting jobs in mind.
Features
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There are features which set tactical folding knives apart from standard folding knives. For example, most tactical folders will feature a pocket clip which may be moved for several different carrying configurations. Opening the knife may be aided by specially designed thumb studs or attachments. These allow for one handed removal from the pocket as well as opening. There are many times that an officer or soldier may need to hold perhaps a weapon or light in one hand and open a knife with the other hand. Other features may include some sort of locking mechanism which prevents the blade from closing unintentionally during use. Some tactical folders also feature spring loaded opening assistance which can either greatly aid in the opening process or make the knife completely automatic.
Size
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Tactical folders come in various sizes depending on the need. Typically, the shortest blade will be around two and one half inches in length. Longer knives may feature blades in the four to five inch range. The thickness of the overall knife will generally be around one inch or so. However, there are design factors, other than the blade, which may also impact the overall width of the knife. The liner locker design, which has a metal locking bar in the knife to lock it in place and a locking mechanism, will also impact this measurement.
Considerations
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Choosing a knife size will largely depend upon the intended use of the knife and how the knife will be carried. If the knife will primarily be a utility cutting tool, then perhaps a drop point blade of shorter length might be a good choice. If the knife is to be used a a back up weapon or offensive weapon, then a longer blade with a tanto configuration could be considered. Handle material is also another area for consideration, as are the elements in which the knife will be used.
Warning
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Most tactical folders are designed for professional use, although they have found their way into the work place and recreation due to their design and features. These knives are typically very sharp and are unforgiving when used improperly.
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