KaBar TDI Knife

[cwmcgu2]

I've got one of these KaBar TDI drop-point knives as personal protection since I've yet to get a CCW due to spending the majority of my time on campus. My school does allow knives such as "pocket knives" and "hunting knives," so I carry one of these often. The plastic holster/sheath comes set up for left handed use as its meant as a weak-side backup, but I've switched it to right handed strong-side use. It's meant as a last resort weapon, to be drawn like a pistol.

Anyone else use one of these? Any opinion on them? It's probably the quickest deploying knife I've seen, and it makes me feel safer for the type of mugging/robberies where the bg is right on top of you.

 

[JShirley]

I understand the theory behind it, but I'm generally less comfortable with push and pistol-grip knives. I tend to want versatility in my tools as much as possible, and a straight, or mostly straight blade is more versatile. It has more reach, and can be used in more ways.

Since knives are tools first, it just makes sense to have a tool you can get the most use from. I would suggest you carry something like a MiniMag light instead (with which you will practice using hammer fist strikes), along with a reasonable folder such as a Spyderco Delica or Native.

What you have there is not a pocket knife nor a hunting knife, and stretching the boundaries when your restrictions are fairly reasonable and do allow for good choices seems like bad juju.

 

[357wheelgunner]

I agree, don't carry that thing to school, there's no way to argue your reasons for packing it. Even a folding karambit is almost impossible to argue as a "pocket" or utility knife.

Get something with a 3-4" drop or clip point blade that doesn't have a tacticool black ninja coating, or the words "Deth d3alorz" on the blade and carry it worry free....

 

[Pax Jordana]

There's definitely a TDI on my toy list.

Speaking in terms of function, it looks to be pretty darn great. And fixed blades are faster than folders.

Is there a textbook definition of 'pocket knife' either in your student handbook or in your state laws? Even if it's defined as folding, maybe you're covered under the hunting knife provision. Heck, the thing looks like it'd be OK for cleaning game (see also: wyoming knife).


Though I say seconded on the maglite. Keep your chin up, I go to a pacifist school.. you're never truly unarmed!

 

[jt1]

cwmcgu2 - I have the serrated version and carry it 24/7. It is a great little hideout and works well for me. I don't see any problem with this knife as a carry if "pocket knives" and "hunting knives," are allowed. Most knife rules are based on blade size and this one is allowed where I live. As far as the ergonomic shape of this knife is concerned it works very well for it's intended purpose. I have modified the belt clip to carry horizontal with the handle down crossdraw and it is very fast.

http://www.thehighroad.org/showpost.php?p=3274377&postcount=16

http://www.thehighroad.org/showpost.php?p=3285846&postcount=33

As far as alternate weapons, here is my current EDC, updated from the first link. The surefire E2D is an excellent carry item and I highly recommend it. At $110.00 it is worth every penney. The light is bright enought to momentarlly blind a BG even in daylight and the front and rear surface is configured as a strike weapon and is very effective.

http://i167.photobucket.com/albums/u152/jt1jt1/PB040030.jpg

If you are going to carry a knife it will be well worth your time to get some instruction in proper SD techinques and to pratice. A few hours with someone who knows what they are doing will make a world of difference and you will be much better prepared if you ever need it.

 

[8830]

I have a serrated one and it's a good knife and can be carried left or right handed and drawn like a pistol or drawn blade front. I too would recommend you get an E2D from Surefire and carry it instead. All college campus' are filled with liberals who would screw you over for carrying anything with a blade on it.

 

[jt1]

I too would recommend you get an E2D from Surefire and carry it instead.

I recommend the E2D in addition to the KB TDI. As long as you are legal the more prepared you are the better. As we have seen recently, you cannot depend upon others for your personal safety.

 

[cwmcgu2]

First thing I did was check with the Chief of our Campus Police before bringing the thing on campus. He had no problem with it and said I was within campus policy. He said he'd rather me carry it that a 5 inch hunting knife with a gut hook, which the policy clearly stipulated. It doesn't really matter though, I graduate in a few days.

On the note of the Sufefire, its on my list. Those things sure are pricey though.

 

[jt1]

cwmcgu2,

...It doesn't really matter though, I graduate in a few days...

Congrats, now get your CCW and start using it.

...On the note of the Surefire, its on my list. Those things sure are pricey though...

There is a big difference between value and price, Be concerned with value, price will soon be forgotten, value will last and serve you well. (Didn't they learn you that in skool? )

 

[1911 guy]

Now come to Ohio and learn to use it.

I've attended the school founded by the man who designed the knife. John Benner, of Tactical Defense Institute, www.tdiohio.com teaches a very good course on H2H and use of the knife. Located in southern Ohio.

It's an excellent retention tool and backup weapon.

 

[thebaldguy]

That might cross the line as a scary looking knife; a good folder carried hidden in a pocket might be a more discreet knife. Pepper spray might be a good idea as well.

 

[Sharpdogs]

I prefer the new LDK from Kabar. I know it's a lot smaller but easier to carry.

LDK

 

[.44walkersabot]

I'vd never had the priviledge of meeting either Mr. Smith OR Mr. Wesson, but I DO maintain a close relationship with Mr. Colt and Mr. Walker. Oh my yes! We'vd been friends for years...Okay...