Best Tactical Knife: Testing For Combat, Survival & Defense

Best Tactical Knives

Today I’ve got something extremely important to share…

A Complete Guide To Finding & Using A Tactical Knife

Because a tactical knife should be able to handle A TON of abuse.

And inflict devastatingly lethal injuries to an enemy.

It’s why they’re a standard-issue for all military and combat specialists.

  • So lets deep dive into what makes a knives tactical.
  • And review a few of the best ones on the market today.
TOPICS IN THIS GUIDE…    ↓(click to jump)

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Why You Should Carry One

I’m sure you’ve heard the old saying,

“Never bring a knife to a gunfight?”

And sure, it holds a seed of truth…

But it’s an incomplete statement.

There’s more to it than THAT.

I get the point; it’s dumb to show up to a gunfight with a knife.

No arguments here.

But you should absolutely show up to a gunfight with a gun AND a fighting knife.

Here’s why:

↓ Why You SHOULD Bring A Knife To A Gunfight

6. Tactical Fixed Or Folding Blade Knives

Originally, combat knives were all fixed blades.

But with the invention of the modern folding blades (in the late 1800s), a second option became available:

The tactical folding knife.

Folding knives are generally:

  • lighter
  • more packable
  • and more covert

But tactical fixed-blade knives  offer higher durability.

Folders have a hinge point.

This makes them great for EDC but not nearly as durable.

So choose wisely.

↓ Fixed Vs. Folder

7. Handle Material

Knife handles are made from many unique materials.

From wood, plastic, rubber, and metal.

They’ve been made out of almost anything you can think of…

But remember:

The better the grip, the less likely it will slip (or get pried from your hands).

But durability is the most important thing.

Function over fashion!

Sure, some wooden-handled knives out there look amazing.

But they’re NOT made to survive severe stress.

8. Handle Design

Some knives are designed to fit perfectly into the hand of the user.

Others are more old-school – fundamental in nature.

Different handle design suits different needs and styles.

Just remember:

You want to be able to hold your knife with a death grip.

That way, it can never be pried from your hands.

And then used against you during a life-or-death grapple match.

9. Survival Extras

Some knives come with a hollowed-out handle.

This allows you can pack it with  a few survival extras, like:

  • fishing hooks
  • paracord
  • tinder
  • matches
  • band-aids
  • etc.

These items can be lifesavers in survival.

But this can throw off the balance of the blade.

And it can even compromise the durability.

So it can be a Pro and a Con.

10. Price

The great equalizer of all things – price.

If you’re like me, price, value, and budgets are important.

Because the less I spend on a knife, the more I can spend on other survival gear.

So I am looking for the best knife at the best price.

That means it might not be the “absolute best”.

But instead, it’s a fantastic, excellent, knife at an affordable price.

Dispelling The 5 Most Common Knife Myths…

Myth #1: “Bigger is Always Better!”

Some folks believe a massive, Rambo-style knife is the only way to go for survival.

But size isn’t everything.

In reality, a smaller, well-designed knife can be much more versatile and practical.

Myth #2: “All Knives are Built to Survive Anything”

I’ve seen people think any knife is labeled “tactical,” it’s indestructible.

No knife (no matter how tactical) is immune to wear and tear.

They all need proper care and maintenance.

So, take care of your gear, and it will take care of you.

Myth #3: “You Can’t Have Too Many Edges”

Some folks believe that the more serrations, saw teeth, and sharp edges the better.

But having too many bells and whistles can actually make a knife less effective.

A simple, well-honed blade is often all you need for most survival tasks.

Keep it sharp and simple!

Myth #4: “Folding Knives are for Sissies”

A high-quality folding knife can be just as reliable as a fixed blade if you choose the right one.

They’re also more compact and easier to carry.

Making them a solid choice for many survival scenarios.

Myth #5: “The More You Pay, the Better the Knife”

Price doesn’t always equal quality.

Just because a knife costs an arm and a leg doesn’t mean it’s the best one for YOU.

You can find plenty of affordable options that perform exceptionally well

. It’s all about finding the right balance between quality and budget.

Final Thoughts

  • No matter what you call them.
  • No matter what kind you end up going with.

Keeping a tactical knife in your survival gear is a necessity.

It’s a critical backup self defense tool for:

  • law enforcement
  • and military personal

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Will Brendza

Will Brendza

  • Bachelor of Arts, University of Colorado at Boulder
  • Member of The 10th Mountain Division Hut Association
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  • 8+ Years Researching, Writing, About Survival and Preparedness
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