Fixed blade for IWB carry

ThinkOfTheChildren

ThinkOfTheChildren

Joined
Jul 7, 2000
Messages
1,556
I would like to get a serious fixed blade for IWB carry. It will be primarily a self-defense piece but I will probably use it for utility also.

Here's what I'm looking for:

4.5" to 7" Blade with some kind of an edge on the spine whether it's a short sharpened area or it goes the full length.
Good guard whether it's integral or otherwise.
Good grip like G-10. Can be smoother like micarta if the handle is ergonomic enough for a secure grip.
IWB kydex sheath.
Concealeable: nothing too thick that will 'print' easily.
I know I just said nothing too thick but nothing too thin either. I don't want a flimsy blade that can't take some good work.
Steel type is not too big of a concern.
I guess I'm willing to spend up to $200 but if it could be under $150 that would be great.

Thanks in advance.
 
The link below contains Bob Kasper's thoughts on the design, construction, and carrying of the Kasper Fighting Knife. It sounds like he was thinking along exactly the same lines you were. Most of these by Polkowski are maybe a hundred bucks more than you're looking to spend, but you could check out the CRKT Companion (note: I have not handled this knife in person, and can't speak for its quality). I've heard bad things about the sheaths, but any number of custom kydex makers here can remedy that for you.

http://www.ghca.org/KFK.html
 
I've been carrying one of my Urban Tactical 1s ITP. It has a 4 inch blade, and rides nice. I don't know about a 7 inch. I'll admit I've thought about making a ITP sheath for one of my daggers that's a 7, but I haven't tryed it yet.

Why don't you just pick your style of knife and have the in-the-pants sheath made for it?
 
Sounds as if the Cuda CQB fits all of your qualifications. I heartily endorse it on the basis of my personal experience. Also has great balance. Sheath may be adapted for IWB, or it comes with the terrific Tek-Lok. For a smaller carry, look at the CQB2. The CQB has great balance and feels great in my medium hands. Comes sharp, and can be made absolutely Vorpal on the Sharpmaker 204. Can be had in the $125 range! Good hunting!:D :D
 
I sent my TOPS Sea Wolf off for a custom IWB sheath. It hasn't made it back yet, but I expect it's going to be GREAT.

Sea%20Wolf%202.jpg


Mike
 
I would also have to suggest a Camillus Cuda CQB-1. I carry mine IWB, with the "plastic" sheath it came with, (with a "G-clip" in-place of the "Tec-Loc" it comes with). This is a great IWB set-up, as both the knife and sheath profile are thin enough so that a T-shirt will cover it.

cuda-ad.jpg
 
I have the CRKT Companion but don't really like the sheath. I do plan on getting a better sheath for it in the future but I am also interested in seeing other offerings out there.

I have been intrigued by the Cuda CQB and while I would prefer a more pronounced guard I am tempted to get one. Is the edge on the spine sharpened or is it a "swedge?"

That TOPS is pretty cool looking.... I'll have to take a look at their lineup.

Thanks for the suggestions so far: keep 'em comin!
 
TOTC,

The "false-edge" of neither of my two CQB-1's are sharp, but they aren't completly flat, either.:D.

Also, don't let the lack of a "proper" hand-guard turn you off, as the grip feels pretty secure, due to the material (canvas micarta), shape of the grip, "mild" single index-finger-groove, and "gripper-grooves" cut into the steel around the handle.:).

I'd LOVE to see Camillus come-out with a version of this knife (CQB-3?) with an 8 inch blade, 'tho.:cool:.
 
I handled a CQB at a MA knife show and was impressed by the hefty, yet balanced feel. On this example, one of the pins stuck on one side maybe 1/8" from the scales. That was a bit dissapointing but I've heard only good things from owners. I may pick one up. Glockman99, where did you get the G-clip for your CQB?
 
I'm with Lifter on this one. Bang for the buck is hard to beat for this custom.

From BladeArt.com:

4” “ ATS-34 stainless steel blade, full tang construction.
Scales are pinned black/green micarta.
Overall length: 8 ¾ “ Weight 5 oz. Ships with IWB Kydex sheath.
Price: $204.95
pollkowski_polecat2_copy.jpg
 
Lifter and steve made a good recommendation. For inside the waist band carry,Polkowski makes a great blade. I think inside the waist band is the best carry of a fixed blade for the streets! I myself carry a Steve Corkum Kozuka IWB.
 
Originally posted by AF
....Glockman99, where did you get the G-clip for your CQB?
Click to expand...

I bought it from On/Scene Tactical (Normark), and it works very well.
 
Probably smaller than you had in mind, but the large F4 looks like an ideal knife for IWB carry.

kit_carson_1.jpg


Mike
 
bm nimravus 140 or 145 - this knife just feels awesome. have only had it for or a while but couldnt be happier...
 
This is what I carry. 4" blade, IWB. It'll be on my website tomorrow for $180. Black T coated $200. Yes it's a cheaper version of my Urban Tactical 1,It's got the same 1/4" thick ATS-34 blade. It's called the Urban Tactical 1 Lt. {light weight}

200111133296753734034832.jpg
 
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