Backup Weapon - Endura Wave vs Matriarch 2 Wave

Jibbles

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Mar 6, 2013
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Hey gang,

I am looking for a defensive blade to carry on my weak side as a backup to my EDC firearm.
I decided I wanted to try the Emerson Wave that Spyderco offers.
Which one of these should I go for? Note: I already carry a daily utility blade, this would be a purely self-defense oriented blade.

Or should I just get a fixed blade TDI?

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Thanks for the input everyone!
 
Endura between the 2. Fixed blade if it's an option! Endura has straight lines and is comfortable and easy to handle under duress. A fixed blade gives you more rigidity and leverage, among several other factors.
 
Endura has straight lines and is comfortable and easy to handle under duress

Considering they both have the same handle, how is the Endura easier to handle in a stressful situation? They both have a similar wave opening feature, same sized spyder-hole, etc.
 
Considering they both have the same handle, how is the Endura easier to handle in a stressful situation? They both have a similar wave opening feature, same sized spyder-hole, etc.

Possibly from a technique standpoint? The Matriarch appears it would only be good for slashing and would require a conscious effort to use it that way; the Endura could be used to slash or stab in a standard grip-hold.
 
Endura all the way. Not only can you use it as a utility knife, but the Matriarch was designed specifically as a non lethal knife. I think this is a problem because, what if you are in an extreme situation that requires you to have that lethal capability?

It's also got a stronger tip.
 
the Matriarch was designed specifically as a non lethal knife. I think this is a problem because, what if you are in an extreme situation that requires you to have that lethal capability?


Um...I'm not sure where you got this information. 1. I already have a utility knife. 2. My primary defensive weapon is a gun, this would be as a backup or to cut someone off my weapon. Thanks for the input, though.
 
The knife would be as a secondary weapon in the event that I need to cut someone off my gun, etc. I'm not too concerned about my weapon "not working", this is just another option in a worst case scenario.
What I don't understand is how the Matriarch is a "non-lethal" design. Care to elaborate?
 
The Matriarch is the "little brother" of the Civilian, which was specifically designed for self-defense use by even an untrained person.
 
The Matriarch is the "little brother" of the Civilian, which was specifically designed for self-defense use by even an untrained person.

1) My previous comment was intended to refer to the blade design through technique, not the handle.
2) In any scenario you're planning (what you're doing now) on carrying anything to be used to do harm (even self defense) you should acquire the proper skills to do so. Defensive blade/unarmed cqb.

Still...if a fixed blade is an option look into it. And as always, the best tool is between your ears. Best of luck.
 
Actually hawk's bill/karambit blades are more "lethal" than their straight bladed counterparts and are designed specifically for fighting. Musician, not instrument (as always).
 
I do this same thing (carry a self defense blade on my weak side) and it is usually always my Matriarch 2, great self defense knife. When I first got it I touched the tip of it to my arm and a little while later realized it had sliced my arm and it was so sharp I didn't even realize it had cut me until I saw blood. Its a wicked knife.
 
Definitely get a fixed blade, since you're in Arizona where fixed blades are legal. You won't have to worry about fumbling to open a knife while under duress, nor will there be a lock to fail.
Perhaps look into the Ka-bar TDI, as it is designed for the purpose you describe.
 
If your gun is your primary, have you looked at a karambit for weak side weapon retention? I have a Emerson Combat Karambit, but I would keep an eye on the Karahawk looks like a very good alternative.
 
+1 on a fixed blade. I love my TDIs for that purpose. If folder is the way you want to go and you already have a utility blade and this is a last ditch defense blade then go for the Matriarch for sure. You won't be disappointed.
 
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This is what I carry in addition to my handgun.

Fixed is carried like this:

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Can be drawn with either hand, one handed, from pretty much any position.

Spyderco P'kal rides in my pocket. Can be either side and the wave works great.

Just make sure you get a trainer as well for what ever blade you choose.
 
As a LEO I carry a serrated waved Endura on my weak side. I like the tip strength and the ability to stab with the Endura. I bought the serrated version in case I have to cut a seatbelt or someone down that is hanging. I considered switching to a waved Matriarch when they came out. If I bought a Matriarch I would carry it on my weak side and Endura on my strong side. Matriarch in case of gun grab and Endura for other stuff. Both are great knives and you can't go wrong with either.
 
Since you're talking strictly weak-side carry for defense, I would say Matriarch 2. Using your non-dominant hand implies a reduction in fine motor skills. The reverse S design of the M2 is specifically for gross motor optimization. Basically, no skill required. Draw, slash, move. Easy-peasy. Also, that blade will go through just about any type of clothing with minimum effort. I carry one for my weak-side backup.
 
1) My previous comment was intended to refer to the blade design through technique, not the handle.
2) In any scenario you're planning (what you're doing now) on carrying anything to be used to do harm (even self defense) you should acquire the proper skills to do so. Defensive blade/unarmed cqb.

Still...if a fixed blade is an option look into it. And as always, the best tool is between your ears. Best of luck.

Can anyone answer the best for SD question without a 20 minute post about what blade that wasn't an option would be the only option, and how you should never do it anyways, because we all know nobody has ever fought off an attack with a knife EVER?

BTW, OP, Matriarch, for the same reason stated: that is its sole purpose for existing. Even Spyderco knows that it's the better choice.
 
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