Combat Tactical Knives

Every deploying Soldier and Marine needs at least one durable tactical combat knife. Depending on their MOS, most servicemen could have as many at three combat knives for use in the Area of Operations (AOR). First, a tactical, or combat fighting knife for use outside the FOB. Second, a general purpose blade to be carried at all times for use mostly in secure areas, but also to serve as a backup to the combat knife. Lastly, anybody who spends anytime outside a Forward Operating Base (FOB), including Airmen, needs a survival knife.

Unless you are infanty, SOF or performing an infantry mission, you probably don't need a combat fighting knife. This knife is to be carried on the outside of your body (and personal protective gear) and is worn anytime you have PPE on. Gerber has an outstanding reputation and is an excellent place to start your search.

Things to consider in a primary combat knife are: (1) Fixed blade for durability and strength. It should be strong enough to use as a hammer if necessary. (2) Length should be approximately 10-12 inches. Anything longer is too bulky. The handle should fit in the hand comfortably. (3) Blade. Must hold a sharp edge, be pointed and serrated for cutting webbing, restraining harnesses, 550 cord etc. (4) Sheath must be MOLLE compatible so that is can be carried on vest or other tactical gear. Is the sheath secure, but allows quick easy access? Do you need a leg strap? (5) Low profile, tactical color with a flat handle so that it doesn’t snag on vehicles, buildings etc. There are some good quality combat knives on market for around $100 or less.

Choose a well-built general purpose tactical knife to carry as a backup. The knife you select should be big and solid enough that it can be used in place of your fighting knife, but its primary function is to perform more general purpose daily functions. The backup knife is like your rifle or pistol on a FOB, you never go anywhere without it. Carry this knife outside the FOB in a place on your body that is easy to get to. Folding knives make great backups. Benchmade and Gerber have excellent reputations. There are several other quality manufacturers. You can’t afford to have it break when you need it, don’t cut corners and purchase an imitation.

Look for durability in a backup tactical knife first. A folding knife by definition has moving parts, and it has to be strong enough to withstand the constant opening and closing of daily use. Functionality is less of a consideration in a backup knife as it has to be able to perform the primary mission as a combat knife, as well as some general purpose tasks.

Some considerations to think about when selecting a backup combat knife are: (1) Overall size. 8-9 inches opened is a good size. The handle should fit comfortably in the palm of your hand. If the handle is much bigger than your palm, the knife may be too big (remember it is a backup). (2) A blade length of 3-4 inches should be sufficient for primary and alternate use. (3). Blade type. The blade should be sharply pointed and heavy enough to penetrate. It should be able to hold a razor sharp edge. Does it have a partially serrated edge? A jagged edge is necessary for cutting through seat belts, restraining harness or TA-50/782 gear quickly. (4) One handed operation. Choose a knife that you can open quickly with one hand. Prices vary significantly, but you should be able to find a quality backup combat knife for between $100-200.

Consider a solid multi-tool for your combat survival knife. This tactical knife/tool combination should be packed away in a survival kit to insure you’ve got a blade and tools if, or when, you need them. The intent is to not use this, and the rest of your survival kit, unless you are in a survival situation or get separated from your gear and need a backup.

There are several good multi-purpose tools on the market. Leatherman and Gerber are the two most well-known multi-tool manufacturers. Other excellent companies make multi-purpose tools as well. As long as you purchase from a reliable company with a good reputation you should be good to go. As your life may depend on it, don’t purchase a cheap knock off version.

Functionality and durability are key to picking a good multi-purpose tool as a your survival knife. Some key features to look for in a survival multi-purpose tool are: (1) Mid-Size. As weight and space are a consideration, don’t look for the larger tricked out tools. On the other hand you don’t want something so small that it won't hold up or doesn’t do the job either. (2) Pick one that has a good solid blade for cutting. You need a blade that holds a sharp edge (3) Make sure it has needle nose pliers for making repairs to vehicles, weapons, equipment etc. (4) Most tools come with wire cutters for repairs communications equipment, vehicles, aircraft etc. Make sure you check this. (5) Your survival knife should also have a Saw Blade capable of cutting up to a 2” branch for building structures, making spears etc. (6) Phillips and Flat Head screw drivers. (7) It should include a File for making repairs. You should be able to pick up a good serviceable multi- tool for between $35-60.

The above are ideas are not intended to be a complete list. Just some considerations to think about concerning combat knives. Ultmately your mission and personal preference will dictate the combat knife you decide to purchase and how many you decide to carry.