Carrying a spike?

[n8swag]

...anyone carry a spike? I noticed these lately for untying ropes easier and such. They look super cool and useful.

 

[PJ Garrison]

Marlin spikes are common on sailors knives because they traditionally did a lot of rope-splicing and knotwork. These days that sort of thing is pretty uncommon, so you're unlikely to see a marlin spike unless that person is also a knot hobbyist.

While I do appreciate the charm of the old-fashioned sailors knife, I don't have one yet, and I don't consider a marlin spike to be a daily necessity yet.

 

[fast14riot]

Marlin spikes are common on sailors knives because they traditionally did a lot of rope-splicing and knotwork. These days that sort of thing is pretty uncommon, so you're unlikely to see a marlin spike unless that person is also a knot hobbyist.

While I do appreciate the charm of the old-fashioned sailors knife, I don't have one yet, and I don't consider a marlin spike to be a daily necessity yet.

You must not live on or near the water. I make custom spikes, prickers, and fids. I am a rigger, and use my spikes actually pretty often in non traditional ways.

I actually carry my custom DFK spike everyday in my messenger bag. Its a pry bar, knot tool, musical instrument (ting!), and a last ditch defense tool. My spikes fit neatly in a front jeans pocket vertically and is not even noticeable to me.

I have some of the folding spike knives, but in reality they aren't great spikes. Too often a spike is needed with only one hand free, or you need it the same time as the knife. Its like having a fork and knife on one tool and you're eating tough steak.

6-8 inches is a good general purpose size for most on and off the water use. Carbon or stainless is up to you.


-Xander