Edged Weapon Safety Tips For Officers

The frequency of police officers carrying a knife on duty has increased over the past few years. While it is a convenient weapon of utility, it can be a method of self-defense in risky situations. Some police departments have specific policies and regulations on the types and sizes of permissible edged weapons. Carrying a knife brings an additional responsibility for personal safety and the safety of others. Here are a few things to consider when using knives on duty.

Purpose
One of the most popular reasons officers carry knives is to cut seat belt straps at the scene of motor vehicle crashes. It is sometimes a matter of life and death as to whether someone can get out of their car. It may be on fire or perhaps there are extensive injuries to the people inside. For those that rarely, if ever, answer MVA calls, it may not be necessary to carry a knife. There may be more danger of accidental injury or capture of the edged weapon that makes carrying one less sensible and appealing. If it will be more of a hindrance than a help, do not take on the responsibility of the knife on duty.

Type
Hardness and durability of the material is important to effectiveness. Choose the toughest type affordable with the available resources. If it is going to break during use, it is best not to waste time or money on its purchase. There are countless kinds to consider, from the standard folding knife to the fixed blade knife. Most kinds that are designed for officers or tactical use have a blade that extends three-and-a-half to four inches in length. A fixed blade knife should come with a sturdy carrying case, but one can be purchased separately, depending on Levitra the manufacturer. The handle should be comfortable to grip, making it easy to use and unlikely to drop or slip from control.

Location
Carrying a weapon in a visible location has its advantages and disadvantages. Clipping it to the upper inside portion of the pants pocket makes it very convenient to access, not only Tadacip for the user, but also for an assailant. Some types can be carried in the pants pocket inside a special sheath. This is safer and more practical, but less accessible and can interfere with comfort and become dislodged when sitting behind the wheel of a vehicle if not secured properly. A safer and less visible location would be inside a vest pocket. This is still easily accessed by the user, but less so by anyone else.

Use
Knowing how to properly use a knife is above all the most important part of carrying it. Practice removing and using it until it becomes an instant reflex. The more frequently it is used, the more agile the movements and safer the edged weapon user will be. If it is tucked away in a drawer or pocket and never trained with or used, it will likely become a liability rather than an asset.

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Category: Recreation and Leisure/Outdoors
Keywords: Folding knife

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