Dive knife ? from a newbie

[intrim]

Hello folks

I have a small dive knife that I want to have with me at all times. It's not for defence but rather in case I get snagged on something. I would rather carry it my whole life and never use it than need it once and not have it. It comes with leg straps but I really don't want to do the James Bond impression if I can help it.

Is there a way to secure it to the BCD in such a way that it is unobtrusive yet easily accessable?

 

[udtfire]

hey fo a newbi as we all are i learn on evry dive and from every diver if you have the room on the back of you console spg, tie rap it there, it will alway be there you can find it and as you shpould clip off conso;e and check it often this should solve the problem , dive safe hope to see you in the water

 

[Guba]

Yes. Knife placement is really a matter of personal preference. It goes without saying that the purpose of a knife is to serve as a tool and not for defense (what exactly does one have a need for defending themselves from while diving?) Therefore, place the cutting instrument where it makes the most sense for you while not compromising the functionality and streamlining of your other equipment. Many divers attach sheath knives to the straps of their BC, often upside down so that drawing them is easy and quick. That of course, necessitates that the latch and retaining system are reliable and sure. The method of attachment depends upon the knife make and style. Some simply attach the sheath by replacing the bands with velcro, sewn attachments, or even heavy duty tape. By the way, there are other options, such as a folding knife that fits in a convenient pocket. Many divers forego a knife altogether and use shears instead. Experiment and see what works best for you.

 

[intrim]

Thanks for the responses. My thinking is to have it mounted upside down on the shoulder strap somehow so that it's easily retrieved with either hand. Sewn in velcro straps are a good idea, and the panel suggestion is worth some thought as well.

Thanks again.

 

[DCBC]

Is there a way to secure it to the BCD in such a way that it is unobtrusive yet easily accessable?

Several years ago, diving knives were larger than they are today. Sheathed knives had upper and lower straps that were designed to be used on the leg. Ideally they were worn on the inside of the leg to prevent a dropped weight-belt from catching on them in the event that it was dropped.

I see that you're from Ontario. Because of the cold-water, whatever knife you use should allow you to grip the handle securely. Small knives often present a degree of difficulty for some people when using a 3-fingered mitt, or heavy glove. If it's worth taking with you, it's not for appearance. It should be accessible and functional.

Today, there's a tendency towards smaller knives, which can't be used as well for prying (the primary use of most knives). Knives or cutting devices are often attached to the BC or the BP/W. As it has already been pointed out, placement is up to the diver. It's important however, that the knife is secure and doesn't present any additional snagging hazards. Hope this helps.

 

[Brian Sharpe]

I carry 2 knives - a larger one (blunt tip) strapped to my leg and a smaller one (in a sheath designed to go on 2" webbing) on my waist.

As DCBC pointed out your dexterity is somewhat diminished with heavy gloves on (not optional at this time of year) and you need something that you can easily grasp.

 

[Garrobo]

I've got a big-a$$ed Bowie knife in a plastic holder, stainless blade and bone handle, which I keep strapped to my right thigh. Never had to use it for anythng but it sure is impressive and attracts a lot of attention. Really a coo-well knife.

 

[TMHeimer]

I had the standard bottom of the line knife--attached to the inside of my leg. It fell out --must've hit the release button somehow (maybe even topside). After buying another, I added the strap from the old holster so it is now secured by 2 straps in case one breaks. Also, I attached the knife to the holster with fishing line-- just long enough so I can remove knife if needed and easily cut the line to release it. Won't be spending another $45.

 

[Peter_C]

This thread might of interest to you.
http://www.scubaboard.com/forums/knives-cutting-tools/313273-anyone-running-2-knives.html

 

[idocsteve]

I carry a small knife in a sheath mounted to my BCD waist strap. Features easy one handed release, easy accessibility and it's got a hook to cut line, which is the only time I intend to ever use it.

What's nice about it, is that it can also be hose mounted. A good place for it would be at the end of the inflator hose on the BCD. Note for those who mount their knives on their regulator hose- if you carry your regs onto the airplane (but not your BCD), remove the knife and stow it in the checked bags or you're going to have an unfortunate experience at the security check point. I speak from personal experience on this one.

Here's a similar knife, with both mounting options. This one doesn't have the notch that can be used to easily cut line.