Knife blade length question

[Cooper]

It seems that some guys prefer a longer blade in a combat knife. I personally find anything bigger than a 6-7" blade (12" OAL) to be a bit unwielding and it seems to slow me down. Other than the additional reach of a longer blade, what am I missing?

 

[Reed]

A bigger factor than length is the balance of the knife and the position that you hold it. Being an amateur, I am still pulling in information on this and probably the best idea would be to attend one of the posted knife training seminars that Nyeti and Duane are setting up. Personal opinion is that a longer blade allows me to stay farther away from their blade. I am sure a lot of the guys here can answer more.
Reed

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Collect 'em to use 'em

 

[KnifeBomber]

It comes down to this. "Everything you can do with a small knife, you can do with a larger one. All the things you can do with a larger knife can't be done by a smaller one." Didn't you see the Pontiac commercials....Wider is better! Or longer in this case.

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Ryan Renuart
Aerial Gunner
"That Others May Live"

 

[HC Leo]

Personal preference prevails.

What matters is that you have one when the sh!t hits the fan and you have skillz to use it. Long or short whichever does the job

 

[Mr_Joshua]

Clothing and muscle create more distance to penetrate. Bigger/ Longer is better for a combat knife. Of course in the civie world a STRIDER folder is a nice compromise.