Finding the Best Tactical Knife

Law enforcement and Military Personnel always trust their lives with some of the most tested and proven weapons, tools and techniques. Putting their lives at risk, they cannot gamble with an item that might fail under duress. Here's a look at some of the most respected and used tactical knives in the fields of war and the urban streets by those who fight and serve to protect and uphold the law.

Ka-Bar TDI Law Enforcement

This small blade in part developed by the guys at the Tactical Defense Institute, has become a favorite amongst military and law enforcement officials as the 'last ditch' knife. When all else fails and an assailant comes too close or restricts the possibility of pulling out a firearm, this knife becomes essential. Can be easily boot strapped or comes with a very well designed belt clip. Its pistol grip makes it easy to quickly pull out and falls naturally into the hand, that closes in on it with a fist. I purchased the short bladed black version, displayed above, but it comes in a variety of sizes, colors and serrated or non serrated blades.  I've honestly never heard a single bad review of this knife and have heard many stories of soldiers buying it for themselves as a last resort tool in the middle east.

Gerber LHR Combat Knife

A cooperative effort between Gerber and Matt Larsen, founder of the MACP (Modern Army Combatives Program), the LHR knife has become another must-have for close quarters combat.  It's a well respected tool that have been proven in the field.  It's a rugged and reliable weapon, full tang and made in the USA.  Comes with a built-in safety release that keeps an assailant from unsheathing the knife of of the wearer.  The sheath it also designed for quick draw and comes out very smoothly, with help of the TacHide grip on the knife.

Gerber LMF II Infantry

This knife has become very popular for its various features and reliability. Not only is it made for the military (therefore tough as nails) but it comes with a pointed buttcap that can be used to punch out glass to escape helicopters or other vehicles in a hurry, which makes it ASEK (Aircrew Survival Egress Knife) compliant . It also features lashing holes and therefore can be tied to a stick and turned into a spear or other tools. Comes with an integrated carbide sharpener in the sheath as well.

It received much praise when a US Soldier stationed in Iraq was under fire by Taliban insurgents at night who were using flood lights on the troops. He used the insulated knife to cut through a live power line providing the insurgents with electricity. Without the lights, the US soldier and his crew used their night vision equipment to win the battle. Now that's street cred.

KA-BAR US Marine Corps Knife

A recognizable Bowie knife to say the least, this knife has been around for a while.  It might not be the most suble weapon, but it's always considered a classic amonst hunters and infantry men.  It was originally used by American Troops in World War II and has been used in practically every American war since.