13 yr. daughter asked for a knife for Xmas

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Jun 13, 2014
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Driving home from the bus stop with my 13 yr. old daughter she tells me she wants a knife for Xmas. I didn't give her an answer but I reminded her she couldn't pack it to school, and why do you want a knife? I was actually surprised, because unlike her younger sister, this one is not the aggressive type, couldn’t harm a moth or kill a spider. On the other hand she is mature for her age and very responsible. I gave it some thought and decided maybe it’s not a bad idea after all. First thing came to mind was providing her with some form of protection, and maybe even a tool that might possibly save her life in the event of an emergency, like cutting a seat belt. Having asked me directly for such a gift I wouldn’t forgive myself if I didn’t and something happened to her later where a knife may have helped her out. I can see potential for possible negative scenarios, but the advantages come out ahead.
I don’t know if my choice of blade was good or not but I ordered her a Kershaw Chive Assisted opening in Pink. I can imagine the two of us watching TV flipping together. lol
 
That's real cute, man. My little girl is only 4 and she's constantly asking me for a knife.

I love Kershaws, and think the Chive is an awesome little knife. As long as you teach her about knife safety, and especially how the Speedsafe mechanism works, y'all should be fine.

I think this is a cool way to share a hobby and get closer with your kid. Kudos to you. Just remember to teach her to respect that blade.
 
Very cool, although as I'm sure you know, it isn't just aggressive types that kill moths and spiders who want knives. ;)
 
Awesome. This was my eight year olds first.

She has always come to me to cut things for her. She's always known I have a knife clipped in my pocket. She was with me when I stopped at a pawn shop and she picked it herself.
She's getting a pink Spyderco Native in her stocking. So proud!
 
My 11yo daughter got a pink RAT 2 when she was 10, she'll be 12 on Sunday. She really likes it but ever since we've been building mini fireplaces and various rocket stove variations in the backyard with some leftover paver stones she's been more interested in fixed blades. (mainly Moras)
 
Start her out with a Vic Classic. Get a cool color and remember not all girls like pink. Some hate it. "Too girly."
 
My 11yo daughter got a pink RAT 2 when she was 10, she'll be 12 on Sunday. She really likes it but ever since we've been building mini fireplaces and various rocket stove variations in the backyard with some leftover paver stones she's been more interested in fixed blades. (mainly Moras)

I've seen your pics, man. Looks really fun and awesome to be involved like that!
 
Cool. I've been carrying a knife most of my life but I never thought I'd have to use it to cut a seatbelt. One day, I did. I'm glad I had it on me that day (like every other day). Decent choice in a knife for her, but pretty tiny honestly. Seems like you chose the something small and pink without really considering the utility of the blade but if she ever needs a slightly bigger blade, maybe try out a Leek if she likes the Chive.
 
I think it's great idea and gift.
My youngest just turned 12 and she's had knives for a couple of years now. Having said that, I spent a fair bit of time making sure she was comfortable using them. She knows they don't go to school with her and things like that. She was taught that they are tools and not toys. The are not to be played with when having sleepovers and etc. She's responsible and knock knock... I haven't regretted the decision to get her into knives yet.
I will say that she doesn't like my assisted Kershaw or even a non assisted Rat. She seems is more comfortable with a 2 handed opening style like her SAK.
 
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If there's a knife store in your area, or a store with a decent selection of knives, take your daughter there so she can handle various knives for herself. She might prefer one style over another, or one type of lock over another, etc. Such an experience can be a "daddy/daughter" memory that she will remember for the rest of her life. Girls remember EVERYTHING about their fathers. The memory of their "first knife" is definitely one they will remember.

A knife can be a very personal item. Whenever possible, I think it's best to let someone choose what they prefer, rather than giving them what we think they would prefer.

And I learned a long time ago never to assume that girls/women like pink (gave a girl I was dating a pink motorcycle helmet. bad idea). Some women take offense to the assumption that they automatically like pink. But of course if you know that the girl/woman likes pink, that's different.

It's always nice to hear about a child who has a healthy interest in knives. And although it might be a little sexist, I find it especially refreshing when a female child expresses such an interest. It just goes to show that all hope is not lost in our society.
 
What are the odds of this topic coming up. My one year old daughter came up and asked for a knife also! I'm thinking a Para military 2 will be something she can grow to love. Just kidding of course. But hearing all these stories I hope when my little one is old enough she will enjoy knives like her old man.
 
Not too long ago I gave my 14 year old daughter a red and black Blur. She loves it. Now she is asking for throwing knives...so it begins
 
Cool I'm sure she will like the Kershaw you picked for her. My daughters have both had their own knives since they were 6 or 7, one still carries one daily in her pocket, the other in her purse. My oldest has started collecting knives on her own and has a pretty good selection. Here she is with her current favorite.

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