Well, I think some of the recommendations are misguided or influenced by what people THINK an LEO can carry and how the knife will be used. Here's some of my thoughts (through 13 years of street experience)
Gun retention: In my career I've seen two gun take away attempts. Both times, the suspect was not successful, and one of the incidents, the gun was not taken due to the holster's retention device(s). I know of a few Departments that incorporate a knife into their weapon retention training.
During a weapon take away incident, I highly doubt the officer would have time or would use a knife, mainly due to a lack of training or unwillingness to cut. If a knife is used, you may be safe, but will probably be severely punished and/or terminated, and probably sued in civil court and possibly prosecuted federally. If it was used outside of Department Policy, your Department will not cover you.
Some would say that it's better to be alive, but the years of potential ramifications will take a toll, so I'd suggest regular training in established weapon retention techniques, instead of relying on a knife.
99% of LEO knife usage is the everyday cutting chores that any one will face: opening envelopes, opening staples, etc. It's not very glamorous.
Here's my recommendations:
--Spyderco Endura: great knife, yet inexpensive enough to be easily replaced if lost, damaged, etc.
--Benchmade Griptillian: another great cutter, and a bit smaller than the Endura.
--Spyderco Military: a bit pricey, but has a proven track record.
--Benchmade 710: great knife, great track record.
-dan
