But what makes a product tactical? It’s not as easy to determine as you might think.
Even with a weapon like a knife, which would seemingly be an obvious candidate for the label, there is a great deal of latitude from a bottom feeder swap meet blade to the actual top-shelf tactical knives.
To illustrate the difference between a tactical and non-tactical weapon, author and custom knife-maker Ernest Emerson compares the combat firearm and regular pistol as an example in his article “Ten Things That Make a Tactical Knife” at USConcealedCarry.com:
“But unless you know what those differences are, you probably can’t tell the difference. It has a barrel, a handle, and it shoots, just like every other gun. However, there are differences and to the educated or experienced, these subtleties can literally spell the difference between life and death. “(Read more at USConcealedCarry.com)
Emerson has put together a list of requirements that determine if a knife fits the tactical designation. The first prerequisite is the design. If you need a knife for a specific task, then find one customized to your needs.
Next on the list is the purpose of the knife. Design and purpose go together; one follows the other. Good knives are designed for certain purposes. It may be that you need more than one quality knife to accomplish your job or mission.
A true tactical knife must also feel good in your hand and handle well. It shouldn’t pinch or snag or feel unwieldy. It shouldn’t force your hand into a preformed grip. In essence, it should feel like it was custom-made for you. This is where the size of the knife also comes into play A Jim Bowie sheath knife will never be used by a police officer on duty but it may be the perfect blade for a hunter.
Another important consideration is what the knife is made of, including both blade and handle. Steel is the preferred material. Knives made in Pakistan or China generally do not use top grade steel, hence the low price. Old-school W1 is still the best steel for the job. The handle should be durable. It shouldn’t shrink or crack, nor absorb moisture of any kind -- including blood, sweat and tears.
Naturally, the blade itself is extremely important when considering tactical capability. Most importantly, the edge should be razor sharp and come to a point that won’t break off on the first use. Blades should be between 1/8 and 3/16 thick with a hardness of 57-59C on the Rockwell scale.
A locking blade can never be trusted 100% and is not recommended for personal defense. No blade lock is foolproof and hardly worth risking your life over.
A fixed blade is much more dependable for personal defense, but folding knives make great alternative weapons and are useful for other, non-defensive purposes. Both can be tactical, but it’s largely a matter of personal preference.
While how you carry your knife isn’t really a tactical consideration, it’s important to carry it in the same place all the time. The last thing you want is to have to fumble for your knife when you need it the most.
The reputation of the knife company you decide to buy from should also be part of your blade selection process. Read online reviews and talk to knowledgeable shop employees before making your decision.
A tactical knife is one that will function in the worst conditions, is easy to access and use, and that you can trust to defend yourself should the situation arise.