I carried a Buck 110 on my belt all through high school then a boot knife from about age 17 until age 24. Of course that was early 80’s. We were allowed to bring our shotguns to metals class in high school and repair or alter them. Great time to be a kid. Can’t imagine growing up as a child in this era.
It’s horrible, I’m a college student in a sketchy area and we aren’t allowed to have any weapons beyond pepper spray. Despite it being a heavy gang violence and robbery area. We can’t even have pocket knives but nobody smart follows that when leaving campus 😂
My EDC normally is Hogue Sig Sauer EX-01 or Benchmade Bugout as California has no concealment laws against manual folders, you have to open carry fixed blades over a certain length in this state 😢
As a Minnesota boy, I prefer a neck knife because of the heavier layers of clothing we’re wearing for more of the year than you would in Texas. It also has a safety use, because if you ever fall through the ice it is more readily available for self rescue. Different strokes though…
Have you considers wearing the lanyard as a sling across your chest and keeping the knife under your armpit? That was the more common practice in colder environments historically and has a few benefits over a neck knife.
I also keep a pocket knife. But as a woodcarving hobbyist and lover of the outdoors, I tend to have another knife handy. I like to wear suspenders, leather ones, and I made a sheath to attach the knife to them. It's convenient, not moving around, and works great. Suspenders are really useful if you want to bring along some extra tools, and most people have forgotten about them outside of fancy dress or workwear.
I wear a knife on my leather suspenders too. It is the quickest and easiest access to my knife at all times. I carry a Mora Knife with the handle facing down, so it is easy to draw out and to put back in. The knife “clicks into the molded sheath for a secure carry method.
@Steven Essary I love Mora, every time I see one at a garage sale or antique store, I take them home. They are always worth saving, that steel is great.
In the Army I had a little Gerber double-edged dagger in my boot as a backup to my Grayman Ground Pounder. Now I just carry an A.G. Russell Sting A1 dagger because it comes with a custom sheath that allows one to carry it with type of footwear. Sure, the Sting is a wee bit heaver than most but it's a solid piece of hot forged steel. There's nothing to break on the knife *except* the blade itself. It's the backup for my Sig Sauer P365XL.
I personally love fixed blades and occasionally carry a gimlet knife in my boot along with my usual uncle Henry that I swapped the scales for a leather wrap on.
Ya, the Gerber Mark I will always be the ultimate boot knife in my books. Several guys in my unit had them but I couldn't afford one at that time. BUT I've got one now!! 😁
We carry knives as well. They are extremely handy and versatile tools to have when you're out in the desert. We prospect and mine for gold, so have to go out fairly deep to find richer ground. The knife is a must have!
Sheaths dictate which knives people carry too often, in my opinion. Getting a custom kydex sheath for a knife will not break the bank, and kydex is highly customizable for use with belts, cordage, or clips; a locking clip is great on a boot knife. The retention and weather resistance of kydex is great for boots, and the washable quality of it for removing dust from the sheath - which will scratch your knife blade - is also a bonus. Carry the knife you want with a custom sheath that does what you need ;)
Well, the clips for kydex are pretty awesome but, when that's not practical Paracord or even steel wire can be a good stand in.👍 Just run it through the rivet holes.
@@colmcgillveray1010none probably? I don’t see why you ask though. A knife is, more often than not, a tool before it’s a weapon. A boot knife ≠ a dagger. Yes, people can be dangerous and that’s more easily accomplished with a knife, but so is something from opening a box to scaling a fish. Try carrying a Swiss Army knife some time, you’ll be surprised how nifty a knife can be. :)
I quit wearing cowboy style boots 30+ years ago and transitioned to mid height hiking style boots for most wild country work, so carrying a "boot" knife is kind of moot. I do carry a mid size neck knife though and find it quite useful and not uncomfortable, just wrap it in a bandana(very useful) and tie that to the neck lanyard and it rides fine. Nice video James and dirty boots....
I got jumped when I was around 22. Had nothing on me to defend myself…had ribs broken with a bat and my pack containing my livelihood stolen. It was the most humiliating experience. I told myself I’d never be in that situation again without a weapon to defend myself. I’ve carried two knives on me every day since then. One in my pocket or on my belt, and one in my boot. I’m opposite though. My boot knife is last resort self defense. My primary knife is the one on my belt or in my pocket. I also conceal carry a 1911, but I honestly don’t like carrying my pistol unless I feel it’s needed…
The point with a pistol is you really don't know when you're going to need it , so if you can carry it you be smart to do so and your two knives also ⚖️
Look up the spyderco matriarch 2 Emerson wave, or the cold steel black talon 2. They’re confidence inspiring, and awe inspiring. Let me know, I’ll even send you my cold steel. Let me know.
You got attacked with a bat so decided to start carrying a knife? The 1911 is a smart play but there's no logic to the knife decision. Whatever makes you feel safer though man confidence is the best deterrence and god damn does carrying something make that happen.
I do wear a boot knife. Current carry is the Cold Steel Spike. Meets all the criteria you expertly specified. Plus it’s really affordable. I tend to loose knives, especially boot knives for some reason. So having something that I can replace is always a good thing.
@@stickbow95I have the serrated edge Kobun that I carry daily but I use it as a duct knife(HVAC) in addition to it being a concealed weapon 👍. The clip sucks, and I wear Doc Martens boots, so I just use the laces to go through the holes in the sheath for boot carry.
I have to interrupt……I purchased a knife from Woodsteel knives alooooooong time ago. It was your design and I do believe it will finally be here very soon. I did request a full scandi grind as it suits my needs. Thank you brother for turning me on to this great knife maker. I have been waiting forever for it to arrive!!! I will send a pick to you as soon as I have it in my hand ❤. Thank you again!!!
Hey James: I affixed my Benchmade 15016-2 Hunt Hidden Canyon Hunter Wood Fixed Blade to my Timberlands 4 season boots 4 years ago and it’s the best (and consequently most unchanged) rig that I use. The knife is the perfect size for a hiking boot carry yet it does everything that a full size belt knife does. Including a utilitarian pommel and nice, grippy wood scales. Twice a year the scales get some oil , the blade gets tuned and oiled and that’s it. THE key is the sheath. More people would wear boot knives if they could find the proper size that remains stealthy and a sheath that nuclear war couldn’t remove from the boot. Also a retention strap is often necessary depending on where one lives. Lastly if “state laws” prevent boot carry it is time for those who can discern the times in which we are headed to man up and relocate. Do so before a Soros DA says “oh well you clearly failed to attempt to retreat when you were mugged therefore you will spend the next 5 years in prison and upon release you owe your attackers $139,000” I encourage folks to check the recent Houston taqueria and San Antonio stolen truck stories. Both are Soros DA’s. If it gets any higher in this nation, brother, I recommend doing your next video on “how I attach my AR to my hip waders.” Love your videos. I’m an early subscriber and tweet you stuff regularly. And yes, I am genuinely very concerned with where our land is headed.
I carry a boot knife when on my motorcycle. It’s an A.G. Russell Sting. On a horse you have to have a knife to cut yourself free if you are being dragged by a horse. I mainly view my Sting as a help in first aid, but a firearms trainer told me once that in any real fight you were likely to find yourself on your back, and on the ground you would find it easier to reach something on your ankle.
I always carry a boot knife as a back up knife. I always have my belt knife for the heavy duty shit but everything else i do with my bootknife. But a neck knife is prety usable too! I carry a morakniv eldris for wood carving
I bought a “ Texas Wildcat “ up in Connecticut in the early 1980’s . It is a “ boot knife “ , straight fixed blade , double edged dagger , about 4 1/2 “ long . Wonderful sheath , as it has a “ mini - strap “ that is like 1/4” wide that fits over one of the dagger “ tangs “ and has a snap for closure . The best part is a very nice deep spring clip that slides on top of your boot and is tight ! Running and whatnot will not have it come loose , and I prefer , unlike you ( no disrespect of course ) to have the knife inside against my calf . Funny that I never know that it’s even there ! I never expected to have it last this long ; I’m thankful that I’ve NEVER used it for its design purpose . I pray that I never will also . Great delivery , young man ! I enjoyed your presentation … Peace ☮️
I just recently began to consider getting a boot knife. I do wear cowboy boots. I don't know why I have never considered attaching to the ears of the boots on the outside before. I'm going to need to go through my knives and see what I thing will work best. Great video!
Very informative brother I enjoyed the video. I'm in law enforcement and carry a SOG snarl on my belt and a small Spiderco in my pocket. I have worn boot knives in the past but they were conventional inside the boot. The way you are carrying those sheath knives looks way more comfortable.
I wear a boot knife most of the time but don't use a sheath, usually I just use the clip on a pocket knife. I wear my knife on the inside of the boot towards my calf because I want it to be concealed but a sheath is pretty appealing because it can get annoying feeling the knife against my skin like that. It's nice to know I have it if I need it though; it's come in handy on several occasions. Good quick video James, hope you're well.
I've never carried a boot knife. Tried it once when I was a little boy. Lost it. I'm not a neck knife guy either. But I do carry the canku c1149. It works for simple tasks on the daily. But the only reason I carry it is for protection. Other than that I also carry a cheap utility knife. Currently the workpro. I find a razor blade extremely useful for my lifestyle. Thanks for your videos.
If you want a concealed fixed blade for defensive use, a shoulder rig is not a bad idea. My belt line is pretty full with other tools often, and concealing a decent sized blade while having it quickly accessible is difficult, but fixed that with the shoulder rig. Great video, friend. Thank you
definitely agree, if your going for a more self defense blade, a boot kniw is not ideal, a shoulder rig sounds much easier and faster to deploy quickly.
I really appreciate your logic in pairing the boot knife with your belt knife. I'm not the outdoorsman I'd lie to be, but my inclination is that I'd select usage the other way around: "beater" on the belt, "delicate" in the boot. But since I don't have the experience I'd LOVE to hear and understand your logic!
its all about personal preference and style, there no worng choice. i imagine most folks would go the beater knife on hip and skinner on belt route, that works great. i just personally like a thin, butcher style belt knives personally as im often cooking outdoors or processing game, fileting fish.
As a right hander I’d carry it on the left foot outside the boot but on the inside of my leg. That’s how you run gun ankle holsters. Helps conceal it better since it’s hidden a bit more from your other leg
I have a Kershaw Secret agent on my right boot… fairly priced knife for what you’re getting a 30 dollar knife, Fixed blade, great coating and it’s sharp out the box as well.. I use durable zip ties and use the loop to make it tight.. all I have to do is rip the knife up and it’s ready to go without worrying it’ll come off… I’m not saying I carry it for self defense but I guarantee that it’s very useful
A lot of cattlemen and shepards from all over the world, in various points of time would carry what we think of as neck knives around their ankle or in a boot, because when you need a small knife you are usually sitting or kneeling. A five to six inch knife would be worn by medieval pilgrims and laborers, Scottish Highlanders, Victorian cowboys, and natives as a neck, sling, or jacket knife. And larger knives with eight inch or larger blades would be worn on their belts. This is where the boot knife shines in my opinion.
You ever heard of those Spanish navajas de muelles? They're essentially big folding bowie knives that were used for dueling back in the day and I was curious about your thoughts on them.
It is legal to own any type of knife in Tennessee including automatic, ballistic, switchblade, butterfly and “assisted opening” knives. There are no restrictions on the blade length of any knife being carried. Further, Tennessee makes no distinction between open and concealed carry of knives.
Great video. When it comes to sheaths, you may want to consider making your own. Leather working is very easy, and you can customize to your application.
I do leather working and it so helpful if you start wearing a boot knife I’ve remade my sheath to make it work better and if that’s not something you can do it really limits your possibilities
@@magnusosmond1835 Excellent point. I make my own leather items, especially knife sheaths, since most of what they come with are generally unusable for my applications. Again, it’s not hard, there’s countless instruction videos on UA-cam
@@darrenvanderwilt1258 Anyone can throw some leather together for their needs. A very very small minority makes heirloom products. I recommend going the custom route from a reputable sheath maker vs making your own assuming you want something that will last as long as the knife.
@@pubplays368 Good point. It depends on the application and need though. In the context of the video, a “heirloom” quality sheath may be a little overkill.
I like a small back up knife as well, and I am not a fan of neck knives, but I like to have the knives I am taking on my belt. So I just run my big(ger) belt knife right next to my smaller one.
I don't wear my knife in my boot as usually if I'm in boots they're bloused and the top secured under pant legs that don't want to be moved out of the way. I do carry a pocket fixed blade though which is the same premise. I usually use an ulticlip or a MKM leather slip with a scabbard in it. My personal knives are: CRKT BIWA in 12c27, a Cypress Creek $3dive knife in magnacut, and a Ferrum Forge lackey! All my fixed blades can double as dive knives for snorkeling on top of regular fishing/oysters/edc/bushcraft etc.
I bought a pair of 5.11 APEX 8" Waterproof, full leather boots a few years ago. They had built-in knife pockets on the outside of each boot. I wish I had bought a 2nd pair, because they discontinued them. They're awesome boots, and good looking due to the full black leather, Goodyear double-welt construction, and Vibram soles. They're also 100% waterproof. Sadly, I can't find another pair in my size, on any of the aftermarket shoe sales websites. 5.11 still makes tactical boots with knife pockets, but they look like true military boots, without full leather. It's also illegal to conceal fixed blades in my state, so I can only put folding knives in the pockets.
Try a carabiner to attach to your boot loop or belt loop. Easy to remove. Never say to law enforcers that your knife is a weapon. They ask if you have a weapon, say no,but I do have a tool that I use to cut things
Have a leather piece sewed by your cobbler into your boots. I used a Gerber Guardian with reverse hook kydex sheath for many years, but now I'm good with a thin folding knive (Benchmade) inside just next to the ears of the the boots, thus preventing the rubbing. As a right handed, I carry mine on the right (in)side of my left boot, more reachable and more concelled from outside. As for your Cadet, for me, this is a pocket knive, so mine goes in my jeans pocket with a lanyard and my Zippo... P.S, I also carry a Parker Jotter pen in my right boot, and this tool had been so usefull over the years that all my right boots have their own pen... ;)
Here in Brazil, knife boot carry is most often by EMT/Rescue personnel and Highway Patrolmen. Two main reasons: accident victims are found lied down on the ground, and the EMT/Highway officer will give the first aid on kneeling position. The knife is more readily acessible to cut the victim's garment when carried in the boot. Second reason: a shocked or stunned victim can hug the Rescue team member around the waist. It's dangerous to carry a knife in the belt in this activity.
I wear a boot knife, it’s a CRKT boot knife, also have an elk ridge fixed blade on my belt…a cattleman cutlery horseman’s knife in one pocket & a small case in another..
I’m Scottish so I carry a sgian dubh in my cowboy boots I think every Scot should carry a sgian dubh sense they used to be a big part of the culture quite the interesting boot sheath you have though mine’s technically tied to my leg though so I can take my boots off and still have it nice video I hope it encourages more people to carry boot knifes and scots sgian dubh’s
The Sgian Dubh is mainly used for ceremonial events nowadays with the modern day kilt outfit then what they used it for back in the oldern day's before the highland clearances and the disarmament act for the highland and isles clan's.
Good Information. Never had a boot knife. I’ve always used a fix-blade Buck 105 for hunting/fishing. A Buck 110 folder for my gun-belt and a military issued pocketknife for EDC.
For me it’s about what I can reach. My multi tool is usually on my right hip. But sometimes my right hand is busy and I need to reach my knife with my left so my boot knife is on my left boot
You should check out the Hogue Extrak. It's paper thin coated M4 (super tough and great edge retention, not stainless at all) with a flat grind all the way up to the swedge. I have a Bradford Guardian 3 for my belt/beater knife, and the Extrak is like a scalpel. Sticky sharp.
I would recommend oiling or greasing you boots it will help increase the life of your boots and help it be water resistant. Thanks for the video I enjoyed it.
once you wear the knife against the leg for a while it feels invisible you can run strap around thru the boot and sheath loops to hold it more secure inside the left leg with a longer knife for a batoning knife a good dive knife on the leg is always a great backup for stupid stuff nice knives by the way
The problem with a boot knife is difficulty drawing it if needed fast. You have to pull the leg of your jeans up high enough to pull the knife. The taller the boot , the higher up it rides and the more difficult it is to draw. Ideally a boot knife is hung with the handle end down so if is pulled downward rather than up.
Very informative 💯💪🏻 Thank you sir I have a pair of Ariat square toe boots, my knife is a small, Handmade Alaska knife w/ deer antler handle. Black leather sheath with a button fasten so there’s no slips or accidents when walking, working or camping
The Scottish Sgian Dubh is my favourite boot or sock knife, back in the oldern day's before they made the Sgian Dubh blunt and only worn as ceremonial events nowadays it was a tradition when visiting another clan when you was disarmed you got to keep your Sgian Dubh as it was used for eating back then so you can conceal it in your boot or sock and unlike the Dirk and sword that they used to carry as well the Sgian Dubh was easy to hide. There's a youtuber named fandabi dozi who make videos of survival and historical videos of 17th century Scotsman in the great kilt and what they wore and carried with them.
this makes me want to carry my boot knife again. carried them when i was too young to carry a pistol. obviously a self defence thing. mine was a "Smith & Wesson S&W HRT Double Edge Boot Dagger Knife"i got it when i think i was 12 or 13. i still have it but haven't carried or used it in many years. it has a clip that fits on the kydex sheath so i always just clipped it on my boot. never had it fall off or anything. but i wore the tall lace up style boots. i love mine, yea its a "dagger" so its not really meant for any utility type use but then i did use it for things it worked great, nice thick blade and razor sharp. P.S. i never used it in self defence, i was young and immature. lol
Awesome video Brother, and let me tell you I’m an avid LTC person, and carry almost all the time. That being said that boot knife is exactly what you called it a back up cutting tool. Something extra to the EDC. Love it and love your advice! Thank s..
My dad had a job at the county jail as a jailer. He told the convicts that he had a boot knife since he wasn't allowed a gun inside the prison. He didn't have one but it kept them in line more because they didn't know for sure if he had one.
This is dope loved the idea of boot knives I live in rural Canada and wear boots 3 seasons outa the year and never thought of attaching one to the pull tab
Your typical boot knife is sold as a dagger; the options you present are much more practical. I don't wear boots that can hold a knife but I think it would be ool if someone built a boot with a leather sheath stitched in as part of the boot itself.
I wear Origin Coronado boots and carry a Cold Steel dagger as a boot knife. It is strictly for self defense. My pocket knives are my daily cutting tools. This means that, should I ever need to use a blade for defense, it will always be sharp and ready to go.
One big thing that I remember from when I was really young as a teenager my buddy had a boot knife, the fact that it didn't have some server a strong retention strap holding it in place actually lost, the reason I know is because I actually found it twice on the ground! So just something to take into consideration just some friendly advice! You did mentioned it I just don't want to see you lose a knife! was only reason I mentioned it.
CRKT Stiff K.I.S.S with the original plastic sheath in my ADV2 motorcycle boots. Usually I keep it strapped to my lower left inside calf, after watching this I’ll try some new mounting points actually on the boot.
I have a boot knife. I had a shoemaker attach the leather sheath to my left boot. Outside of the boot, but between the legs. Concealed by the pant leg. Works great, and I am right handed.
You should buy some saddle soap and mink oil and really take care of your fine leather boots ! They will last many years and be water resistant, supple, and look great !
There's an argument for wearing it on the Left side of the boot. If you damage your primary hand, it will be very hard to pull it out with your left hand, unless it's mounted on the inside.
I ware cowboy boots and have a boot knife on me every day. I have a Esse Avispa, I want a folder so if I get hit in the foot it doesn't get shoved through my foot or ankle. Mine is SK5 and rusts if not oiled but it don't bother me. I just use the bucket clip on the front right part of the boot so it really doesn't rub on my leg.
Thanks James. this is the last straw, gotta pick up a Cold Steel Counter Tac. I tried it with the Becker Necker and a CRKT minimalist years ago but didn't stick with it.
I still have my very first knife that I had as a LRRP and Ranger back in the early to mid 1970s: A Gerber Mark II, and no it is not a "virgin", later I bought a Gerber Mark I.
Used to carry a boot knife. Inside my left leg boot. I’m right handed. Now. I’m older wearing boot just anoff CD e the ankle. So no really shiv my boot knives. However I use suspenders and will try this mode of carry
Not in Canada, mate! I can barely get away with a tiny flashlight on my belt without people thinking I'm openly carrying a knife... a boot knife would be considered concealed carry with some sort of intent. I've always had to stick with pocket-sized Swiss army knives and now multi-tools for work EDC because they're non-threatening and ... no one can argue it's not for work purposes.... What's in my bag and car trunk is a different story, though.
90 percent of the time I ware cowboy boots, I like the COLD STEEL "The Spike",,it's only German 4116 steel but , I don't mind one bit. I also like the scandi type grind on it too...I like your boot set ups, very nice
I carry a Crocs knife. It’s a little small though. Lol. A Kabar BK11 neck knife works for me because I live in the DEEP south (HOT!) and a T-shirt/shorts is on the menu.
When working on a farm, or somewhere else that requires Duckies(half calf rubber boots), it is better to have the boot knife on the inside of the boot. Duckies are also easy to modify to attack a boot knife to. But, on the farm I worked at, I typically had 3 knives on me, a small pocket/utility knife, my belt knife, and my boot knife. All for different applications.
Are there any cowboy boot companies that make knife pockets or pockets of some kind inside/outside? If not, would be a good idea. I’ve seen tactical boot companies do it.
I'm a knife guy. I got lots of them but I rarely wear boots. I also have a neck knife but I'm like you as I don't like crap around my neck. I'm never with out a knife. NEVER.
BOOTS ARE BACK. Sales of Cowboy Boots are on the rise and not just for the young ladies that wear them for style.. I had always worn Cowboy Boots until I broke all of my toes in a jump in the service. But, ended up having the toes taken off from so many breaks. Now I am back in Boots just a size smaller and YES, I am back to having a Boot Knife.
Cool video, James. I'm not much of a cowboy boots guy myself, so I often do carry a necker for all the same reasons you carry a boot knife. I like the concepts though.
Scotsmen used to carry an extra knife (because their main was kind of a short sword attached to their belts) on the inside of their high socks when they used to wear kilts the way we see them today (after the 1800s) now it's part of their traditional outfit for weddings etc. Personally, I find it more useful and practical when attached to the belt. If it's a folding knife then inside a pocket. Wearing it outside of a boot, any kind of boot there is a high chance you will lose it crossing a shallow river, bushes, climbing, running... It seems more like a movie or videogame way of carrying it, like in an assassin, thief, ranger kind of scenario where they need to have it hidden. About the neck knife... I don't know where this came from, probably before belts were invented.
I tried boot knives 30+ years ago just did not work for me may try it again as their are more options now and on how to attach them to a boot. I do use a neck knife but since I live in the bush their are never any issues wearing one and it has worked for me dont think I will ever give it up...
I think it would be more effective if you buy a knife with Kydex sheath and secure sheath upside down so you are pulling knife down to remove it without having to pull your pant legs way up.
I carried a Buck 110 on my belt all through high school then a boot knife from about age 17 until age 24. Of course that was early 80’s. We were allowed to bring our shotguns to metals class in high school and repair or alter them. Great time to be a kid. Can’t imagine growing up as a child in this era.
I do t carry my 110much anymore, but it’s still one of my all time favorite knives.
It’s horrible, I’m a college student in a sketchy area and we aren’t allowed to have any weapons beyond pepper spray. Despite it being a heavy gang violence and robbery area. We can’t even have pocket knives but nobody smart follows that when leaving campus 😂
My EDC normally is Hogue Sig Sauer EX-01 or Benchmade Bugout as California has no concealment laws against manual folders, you have to open carry fixed blades over a certain length in this state 😢
Nobody IS growing up anymore! Our uncivilization is full of irresponsible, immature not children children!
@@Nach0s187 best to carry and be judge by 12 instead being carry by 6
Damn ! Now I gotta figure out how to carry a knife in my crocs .
As a Minnesota boy, I prefer a neck knife because of the heavier layers of clothing we’re wearing for more of the year than you would in Texas. It also has a safety use, because if you ever fall through the ice it is more readily available for self rescue. Different strokes though…
Have you considers wearing the lanyard as a sling across your chest and keeping the knife under your armpit? That was the more common practice in colder environments historically and has a few benefits over a neck knife.
Or wear both
I love a boot knife, I’ve carried one for forty some years.
I also keep a pocket knife. But as a woodcarving hobbyist and lover of the outdoors, I tend to have another knife handy. I like to wear suspenders, leather ones, and I made a sheath to attach the knife to them. It's convenient, not moving around, and works great. Suspenders are really useful if you want to bring along some extra tools, and most people have forgotten about them outside of fancy dress or workwear.
I wear a knife on my leather suspenders too. It is the quickest and easiest access to my knife at all times. I carry a Mora Knife with the handle facing down, so it is easy to draw out and to put back in. The knife “clicks into the molded sheath for a secure carry method.
@Steven Essary I love Mora, every time I see one at a garage sale or antique store, I take them home. They are always worth saving, that steel is great.
Got a preferred source for leather suspenders?
@@PatrickKniesler I make them myself.
Wow I never thought of suspender carry. But will definitely try thanks for the tip!
In the Army I had a little Gerber double-edged dagger in my boot as a backup to my Grayman Ground Pounder.
Now I just carry an A.G. Russell Sting A1 dagger because it comes with a custom sheath that allows one to carry it with type of footwear.
Sure, the Sting is a wee bit heaver than most but it's a solid piece of hot forged steel. There's nothing to break on the knife *except* the blade itself.
It's the backup for my Sig Sauer P365XL.
I personally love fixed blades and occasionally carry a gimlet knife in my boot along with my usual uncle Henry that I swapped the scales for a leather wrap on.
Ya, the Gerber Mark I will always be the ultimate boot knife in my books. Several guys in my unit had them but I couldn't afford one at that time. BUT I've got one now!! 😁
I carry a fixed knife because i find them to be more reliable then flippers. I do have some flippers also lol
We carry knives as well. They are extremely handy and versatile tools to have when you're out in the desert. We prospect and mine for gold, so have to go out fairly deep to find richer ground. The knife is a must have!
Sheaths dictate which knives people carry too often, in my opinion. Getting a custom kydex sheath for a knife will not break the bank, and kydex is highly customizable for use with belts, cordage, or clips; a locking clip is great on a boot knife. The retention and weather resistance of kydex is great for boots, and the washable quality of it for removing dust from the sheath - which will scratch your knife blade - is also a bonus. Carry the knife you want with a custom sheath that does what you need ;)
Well, the clips for kydex are pretty awesome but, when that's not practical Paracord or even steel wire can be a good stand in.👍 Just run it through the rivet holes.
So how many folk have you needed to stab of slash in your life?
@@colmcgillveray1010none probably? I don’t see why you ask though. A knife is, more often than not, a tool before it’s a weapon. A boot knife ≠ a dagger. Yes, people can be dangerous and that’s more easily accomplished with a knife, but so is something from opening a box to scaling a fish. Try carrying a Swiss Army knife some time, you’ll be surprised how nifty a knife can be. :)
We use zip ties to attach gear to molle. Works pretty good just make sure they're good quality zip ties
I quit wearing cowboy style boots 30+ years ago and transitioned to mid height hiking style boots for most wild country work, so carrying a "boot" knife is kind of moot. I do carry a mid size neck knife though and find it quite useful and not uncomfortable, just wrap it in a bandana(very useful) and tie that to the neck lanyard and it rides fine. Nice video James and dirty boots....
I got jumped when I was around 22. Had nothing on me to defend myself…had ribs broken with a bat and my pack containing my livelihood stolen. It was the most humiliating experience. I told myself I’d never be in that situation again without a weapon to defend myself. I’ve carried two knives on me every day since then. One in my pocket or on my belt, and one in my boot.
I’m opposite though. My boot knife is last resort self defense. My primary knife is the one on my belt or in my pocket. I also conceal carry a 1911, but I honestly don’t like carrying my pistol unless I feel it’s needed…
The point with a pistol is you really don't know when you're going to need it , so if you can carry it you be smart to do so and your two knives also ⚖️
Look up the spyderco matriarch 2 Emerson wave, or the cold steel black talon 2. They’re confidence inspiring, and awe inspiring. Let me know, I’ll even send you my cold steel. Let me know.
And I like having a “glad I at least had it” gun like a micro compact .380, and there’s even some tiny 9mm models you can easily pocket if you want.
@@lindboknifeandtool I remember seeing a magazine article about the Civilian and I've been in love with Spydes ever since.
You got attacked with a bat so decided to start carrying a knife? The 1911 is a smart play but there's no logic to the knife decision. Whatever makes you feel safer though man confidence is the best deterrence and god damn does carrying something make that happen.
I do wear a boot knife. Current carry is the Cold Steel Spike. Meets all the criteria you expertly specified. Plus it’s really affordable. I tend to loose knives, especially boot knives for some reason. So having something that I can replace is always a good thing.
Nice choice. The Cold Steel Kobun is my usual boot knife.
Same...I really like the Spike...light weight...tough...great boot or neck knife.
@@stickbow95I have the serrated edge Kobun that I carry daily but I use it as a duct knife(HVAC) in addition to it being a concealed weapon 👍. The clip sucks, and I wear Doc Martens boots, so I just use the laces to go through the holes in the sheath for boot carry.
I have to interrupt……I purchased a knife from Woodsteel knives alooooooong time ago. It was your design and I do believe it will finally be here very soon. I did request a full scandi grind as it suits my needs. Thank you brother for turning me on to this great knife maker. I have been waiting forever for it to arrive!!! I will send a pick to you as soon as I have it in my hand ❤. Thank you again!!!
I wasn’t able to see the boot knives that you slowed….Can you send me the info on those:)
Glad to see someone likes the boot carrie style. Back in the day when we did this. we put a slit in our jeans for ease of access.
Hey James: I affixed my Benchmade 15016-2 Hunt Hidden Canyon Hunter Wood Fixed Blade to my Timberlands 4 season boots 4 years ago and it’s the best (and consequently most unchanged) rig that I use. The knife is the perfect size for a hiking boot carry yet it does everything that a full size belt knife does. Including a utilitarian pommel and nice, grippy wood scales. Twice a year the scales get some oil , the blade gets tuned and oiled and that’s it. THE key is the sheath. More people would wear boot knives if they could find the proper size that remains stealthy and a sheath that nuclear war couldn’t remove from the boot. Also a retention strap is often necessary depending on where one lives. Lastly if “state laws” prevent boot carry it is time for those who can discern the times in which we are headed to man up and relocate. Do so before a Soros DA says “oh well you clearly failed to attempt to retreat when you were mugged therefore you will spend the next 5 years in prison and upon release you owe your attackers $139,000” I encourage folks to check the recent Houston taqueria and San Antonio stolen truck stories. Both are Soros DA’s. If it gets any higher in this nation, brother, I recommend doing your next video on “how I attach my AR to my hip waders.” Love your videos. I’m an early subscriber and tweet you stuff regularly. And yes, I am genuinely very concerned with where our land is headed.
that looks liek an excellent knife to use for boot carry. and yeah same here, this countrys modern political mindset is baffling to me
Man, the Soros DA story is sick. Thrown in prison for defending themselves in a mugging?! Wow.
I thought Texas was a stand your ground state.
A lot of the police around Dever carry a boot knife. I made my step-dad a custom boot knife for him to carry while on duty.
I carry a boot knife when on my motorcycle. It’s an A.G. Russell Sting. On a horse you have to have a knife to cut yourself free if you are being dragged by a horse. I mainly view my Sting as a help in first aid, but a firearms trainer told me once that in any real fight you were likely to find yourself on your back, and on the ground you would find it easier to reach something on your ankle.
I always carry a boot knife as a back up knife. I always have my belt knife for the heavy duty shit but everything else i do with my bootknife. But a neck knife is prety usable too! I carry a morakniv eldris for wood carving
I bought a “ Texas Wildcat “ up in Connecticut in the early 1980’s .
It is a “ boot knife “ , straight fixed blade , double edged dagger , about 4 1/2 “ long .
Wonderful sheath , as it has a
“ mini - strap “ that is like 1/4” wide that fits over one of the dagger “ tangs “ and has a snap for closure .
The best part is a very nice deep spring clip that slides on top of your boot and is tight !
Running and whatnot will not have it come loose , and I prefer , unlike you ( no disrespect of course ) to have the knife inside against my calf .
Funny that I never know that it’s even there !
I never expected to have it last this long ; I’m thankful that I’ve NEVER used it for its design purpose .
I pray that I never will also .
Great delivery , young man !
I enjoyed your presentation …
Peace ☮️
awesoem brother, im glad you have a great blade and setup that works for you!
I just recently began to consider getting a boot knife. I do wear cowboy boots. I don't know why I have never considered attaching to the ears of the boots on the outside before. I'm going to need to go through my knives and see what I thing will work best. Great video!
good luck!
Very informative brother I enjoyed the video. I'm in law enforcement and carry a SOG snarl on my belt and a small Spiderco in my pocket. I have worn boot knives in the past but they were conventional inside the boot. The way you are carrying those sheath knives looks way more comfortable.
These are the videos I’m always looking for. Just a guy’s system, and how he runs his gear. Thanks for the video I love your setup!
I wear a boot knife most of the time but don't use a sheath, usually I just use the clip on a pocket knife. I wear my knife on the inside of the boot towards my calf because I want it to be concealed but a sheath is pretty appealing because it can get annoying feeling the knife against my skin like that. It's nice to know I have it if I need it though; it's come in handy on several occasions.
Good quick video James, hope you're well.
Amber! its great to hear from you! i hope youre doing great!
Thanks, I'm doing great! Just moved to El Paso so maybe I'll see you around 😄
I've never carried a boot knife. Tried it once when I was a little boy. Lost it. I'm not a neck knife guy either. But I do carry the canku c1149. It works for simple tasks on the daily. But the only reason I carry it is for protection. Other than that I also carry a cheap utility knife. Currently the workpro. I find a razor blade extremely useful for my lifestyle. Thanks for your videos.
If you want a concealed fixed blade for defensive use, a shoulder rig is not a bad idea. My belt line is pretty full with other tools often, and concealing a decent sized blade while having it quickly accessible is difficult, but fixed that with the shoulder rig. Great video, friend. Thank you
definitely agree, if your going for a more self defense blade, a boot kniw is not ideal, a shoulder rig sounds much easier and faster to deploy quickly.
I really liked the "behind the scenes" stuff after, "Now go outside and get your boots dirty."
I really appreciate your logic in pairing the boot knife with your belt knife. I'm not the outdoorsman I'd lie to be, but my inclination is that I'd select usage the other way around: "beater" on the belt, "delicate" in the boot. But since I don't have the experience I'd LOVE to hear and understand your logic!
its all about personal preference and style, there no worng choice. i imagine most folks would go the beater knife on hip and skinner on belt route, that works great. i just personally like a thin, butcher style belt knives personally as im often cooking outdoors or processing game, fileting fish.
As a right hander I’d carry it on the left foot outside the boot but on the inside of my leg. That’s how you run gun ankle holsters. Helps conceal it better since it’s hidden a bit more from your other leg
I have a Kershaw Secret agent on my right boot… fairly priced knife for what you’re getting a 30 dollar knife, Fixed blade, great coating and it’s sharp out the box as well.. I use durable zip ties and use the loop to make it tight.. all I have to do is rip the knife up and it’s ready to go without worrying it’ll come off… I’m not saying I carry it for self defense but I guarantee that it’s very useful
A lot of cattlemen and shepards from all over the world, in various points of time would carry what we think of as neck knives around their ankle or in a boot, because when you need a small knife you are usually sitting or kneeling. A five to six inch knife would be worn by medieval pilgrims and laborers, Scottish Highlanders, Victorian cowboys, and natives as a neck, sling, or jacket knife. And larger knives with eight inch or larger blades would be worn on their belts.
This is where the boot knife shines in my opinion.
You ever heard of those Spanish navajas de muelles? They're essentially big folding bowie knives that were used for dueling back in the day and I was curious about your thoughts on them.
interesting, ive actually never heard of them. they look awesome
@@JunkyardFox I know right! I was thinking i might try to make one
They use something similar in Argentina.
It is legal to own any type of knife in Tennessee including automatic, ballistic, switchblade, butterfly and “assisted opening” knives. There are no restrictions on the blade length of any knife being carried. Further, Tennessee makes no distinction between open and concealed carry of knives.
Great video. When it comes to sheaths, you may want to consider making your own. Leather working is very easy, and you can customize to your application.
I do leather working and it so helpful if you start wearing a boot knife I’ve remade my sheath to make it work better and if that’s not something you can do it really limits your possibilities
@@magnusosmond1835 Excellent point. I make my own leather items, especially knife sheaths, since most of what they come with are generally unusable for my applications. Again, it’s not hard, there’s countless instruction videos on UA-cam
@@darrenvanderwilt1258 Anyone can throw some leather together for their needs. A very very small minority makes heirloom products. I recommend going the custom route from a reputable sheath maker vs making your own assuming you want something that will last as long as the knife.
@@pubplays368 Good point. It depends on the application and need though. In the context of the video, a “heirloom” quality sheath may be a little overkill.
I like a small back up knife as well, and I am not a fan of neck knives, but I like to have the knives I am taking on my belt. So I just run my big(ger) belt knife right next to my smaller one.
I don't wear my knife in my boot as usually if I'm in boots they're bloused and the top secured under pant legs that don't want to be moved out of the way. I do carry a pocket fixed blade though which is the same premise. I usually use an ulticlip or a MKM leather slip with a scabbard in it. My personal knives are: CRKT BIWA in 12c27, a Cypress Creek $3dive knife in magnacut, and a Ferrum Forge lackey!
All my fixed blades can double as dive knives for snorkeling on top of regular fishing/oysters/edc/bushcraft etc.
I bought a pair of 5.11 APEX 8" Waterproof, full leather boots a few years ago. They had built-in knife pockets on the outside of each boot. I wish I had bought a 2nd pair, because they discontinued them. They're awesome boots, and good looking due to the full black leather, Goodyear double-welt construction, and Vibram soles. They're also 100% waterproof. Sadly, I can't find another pair in my size, on any of the aftermarket shoe sales websites. 5.11 still makes tactical boots with knife pockets, but they look like true military boots, without full leather. It's also illegal to conceal fixed blades in my state, so I can only put folding knives in the pockets.
Try a carabiner to attach to your boot loop or belt loop. Easy to remove. Never say to law enforcers that your knife is a weapon. They ask if you have a weapon, say no,but I do have a tool that I use to cut things
Have a leather piece sewed by your cobbler into your boots. I used a Gerber Guardian with reverse hook kydex sheath for many years, but now I'm good with a thin folding knive (Benchmade) inside just next to the ears of the the boots, thus preventing the rubbing. As a right handed, I carry mine on the right (in)side of my left boot, more reachable and more concelled from outside. As for your Cadet, for me, this is a pocket knive, so mine goes in my jeans pocket with a lanyard and my Zippo... P.S, I also carry a Parker Jotter pen in my right boot, and this tool had been so usefull over the years that all my right boots have their own pen... ;)
Here in Brazil, knife boot carry is most often by EMT/Rescue personnel and Highway Patrolmen.
Two main reasons: accident victims are found lied down on the ground, and the EMT/Highway officer will give the first aid on kneeling position. The knife is more readily acessible to cut the victim's garment when carried in the boot.
Second reason: a shocked or stunned victim can hug the Rescue team member around the waist. It's dangerous to carry a knife in the belt in this activity.
I wear a boot knife, it’s a CRKT boot knife, also have an elk ridge fixed blade on my belt…a cattleman cutlery horseman’s knife in one pocket & a small case in another..
I’m Scottish so I carry a sgian dubh in my cowboy boots I think every Scot should carry a sgian dubh sense they used to be a big part of the culture quite the interesting boot sheath you have though mine’s technically tied to my leg though so I can take my boots off and still have it nice video I hope it encourages more people to carry boot knifes and scots sgian dubh’s
The Sgian Dubh is mainly used for ceremonial events nowadays with the modern day kilt outfit then what they used it for back in the oldern day's before the highland clearances and the disarmament act for the highland and isles clan's.
I didn't know other footwear existed other than cowboy or work boots. Fellow Texan here, enjoyed your video.
Good Information. Never had a boot knife. I’ve always used a fix-blade Buck 105 for hunting/fishing. A Buck 110 folder for my gun-belt and a military issued pocketknife for EDC.
For me it’s about what I can reach. My multi tool is usually on my right hip. But sometimes my right hand is busy and I need to reach my knife with my left so my boot knife is on my left boot
You should check out the Hogue Extrak. It's paper thin coated M4 (super tough and great edge retention, not stainless at all) with a flat grind all the way up to the swedge. I have a Bradford Guardian 3 for my belt/beater knife, and the Extrak is like a scalpel. Sticky sharp.
I carry a 3inch full tang T-handle $26 punch dagger. I tossed the Kydex sheath and made a leather one to replace it.
A small, spin-lock carabineer will work to attach it to the boot, just put Loctite on the threads.
I would recommend oiling or greasing you boots it will help increase the life of your boots and help it be water resistant. Thanks for the video I enjoyed it.
once you wear the knife against the leg for a while it feels invisible
you can run strap around thru the boot and sheath loops to hold it more secure
inside the left leg with a longer knife for a batoning knife
a good dive knife on the leg is always a great backup for stupid stuff
nice knives by the way
The problem with a boot knife is difficulty drawing it if needed fast. You have to pull the leg of your jeans up high enough to pull the knife. The taller the boot , the higher up it rides and the more difficult it is to draw. Ideally a boot knife is hung with the handle end down so if is pulled downward rather than up.
T a chef knife carry neck neck along shoulder . I like the draw ability . I added Velcro for to keep it from falling off .
I like keeping a leatherman on my boot as I hunt with a bow and the plier feature is usefull in pulling arrowheads.
thats awesome!
Very informative 💯💪🏻 Thank you sir
I have a pair of Ariat square toe boots, my knife is a small, Handmade Alaska knife w/ deer antler handle. Black leather sheath with a button fasten so there’s no slips or accidents when walking, working or camping
very nice!
The Scottish Sgian Dubh is my favourite boot or sock knife, back in the oldern day's before they made the Sgian Dubh blunt and only worn as ceremonial events nowadays it was a tradition when visiting another clan when you was disarmed you got to keep your Sgian Dubh as it was used for eating back then so you can conceal it in your boot or sock and unlike the Dirk and sword that they used to carry as well the Sgian Dubh was easy to hide. There's a youtuber named fandabi dozi who make videos of survival and historical videos of 17th century Scotsman in the great kilt and what they wore and carried with them.
Traditionaly boot knives are for protection to get someone off you. Can be worn with any style boot not just cowboy boots.
In NC it’s illegal to carry a fixed blade knife concealed, but I can see a Buck 110 hanging on my boot.
Might have to try it. Thanks brother.
this makes me want to carry my boot knife again. carried them when i was too young to carry a pistol. obviously a self defence thing. mine was a "Smith & Wesson S&W HRT Double Edge Boot Dagger Knife"i got it when i think i was 12 or 13. i still have it but haven't carried or used it in many years. it has a clip that fits on the kydex sheath so i always just clipped it on my boot. never had it fall off or anything. but i wore the tall lace up style boots. i love mine, yea its a "dagger" so its not really meant for any utility type use but then i did use it for things it worked great, nice thick blade and razor sharp.
P.S. i never used it in self defence, i was young and immature. lol
I've been carrying a TOPS Lions Toothpick inside my right boot for some months now. I enjoy it but plan on making a sheath to attach to my boot.
Awesome video Brother, and let me tell you I’m an avid LTC person, and carry almost all the time. That being said that boot knife is exactly what you called it a back up cutting tool. Something extra to the EDC. Love it and love your advice! Thank s..
glad you enjoyed it!
Cool idea, never thought of carrying my straight blade in this fashion. I usually carry mine in my back pocket with a leather sheath w/clip.
Ah I see . Put your jean leg up hmm. I want to make a boot knife upside down and add magnets . Do I make it like a sheath soft leather or scabbard?
Great video. I had been considering carrying a boot knife, on my inside left boot so I can get it while driving. Thanks for some real lift options.
My dad had a job at the county jail as a jailer. He told the convicts that he had a boot knife since he wasn't allowed a gun inside the prison. He didn't have one but it kept them in line more because they didn't know for sure if he had one.
This is dope loved the idea of boot knives I live in rural Canada and wear boots 3 seasons outa the year and never thought of attaching one to the pull tab
defintely give it a try, its great and out of the way
Years ago, I was a Deputy Sheriff of Southern Illinois. I carried a Gerber Guardian, and it was strictly for self defense, backup weapon.
Your typical boot knife is sold as a dagger; the options you present are much more practical. I don't wear boots that can hold a knife but I think it would be ool if someone built a boot with a leather sheath stitched in as part of the boot itself.
I wear Origin Coronado boots and carry a Cold Steel dagger as a boot knife. It is strictly for self defense. My pocket knives are my daily cutting tools. This means that, should I ever need to use a blade for defense, it will always be sharp and ready to go.
One big thing that I remember from when I was really young as a teenager my buddy had a boot knife, the fact that it didn't have some server a strong retention strap holding it in place actually lost, the reason I know is because I actually found it twice on the ground! So just something to take into consideration just some friendly advice! You did mentioned it I just don't want to see you lose a knife! was only reason I mentioned it.
CRKT Stiff K.I.S.S with the original plastic sheath in my ADV2 motorcycle boots. Usually I keep it strapped to my lower left inside calf, after watching this I’ll try some new mounting points actually on the boot.
nice!
Good information, awesome knives and Boots . I love the old ones with the spurs . I’ll figure something out to carry , thanks .
Sounds like more people need to get a good pair of cowboy boots! Great vid.
I have a boot knife. I had a shoemaker attach the leather sheath to my left boot. Outside of the boot, but between the legs. Concealed by the pant leg. Works great, and I am right handed.
great thinking!
Exactly where it should be worn. That’s how gun ankle holsters are 👍🏽
Exactly where it should be worn. That’s how gun ankle holsters are 👍🏽
You should buy some saddle soap and mink oil and really take care of your fine leather boots ! They will last many years and be water resistant, supple, and look great !
yeah very true, im gonna be ordering some soon
There's an argument for wearing it on the Left side of the boot. If you damage your primary hand, it will be very hard to pull it out with your left hand, unless it's mounted on the inside.
interesting, ive never thought of that
I ware cowboy boots and have a boot knife on me every day. I have a Esse Avispa, I want a folder so if I get hit in the foot it doesn't get shoved through my foot or ankle. Mine is SK5 and rusts if not oiled but it don't bother me. I just use the bucket clip on the front right part of the boot so it really doesn't rub on my leg.
Love the knives . i personally don't carry a booth knife but i do carry a neck knife when out in to woods and a belt knife
Thanks James. this is the last straw, gotta pick up a Cold Steel Counter Tac. I tried it with the Becker Necker and a CRKT minimalist years ago but didn't stick with it.
Have you thought about taking your shelve to a cobbler and have it sewed to your boot.
I still have my very first knife that I had as a LRRP and Ranger back in the early to mid 1970s:
A Gerber Mark II, and no it is not a "virgin", later I bought a Gerber Mark I.
I’ve carried one for 50 yr . Carry one inside my vest , attached to vest ..handy
Used to carry a boot knife. Inside my left leg boot. I’m right handed. Now. I’m older wearing boot just anoff CD e the ankle. So no really shiv my boot knives. However I use suspenders and will try this mode of carry
Not in Canada, mate! I can barely get away with a tiny flashlight on my belt without people thinking I'm openly carrying a knife... a boot knife would be considered concealed carry with some sort of intent. I've always had to stick with pocket-sized Swiss army knives and now multi-tools for work EDC because they're non-threatening and ... no one can argue it's not for work purposes....
What's in my bag and car trunk is a different story, though.
90 percent of the time I ware cowboy boots, I like the COLD STEEL "The Spike",,it's only German 4116 steel but , I don't mind one bit. I also like the scandi type grind on it too...I like your boot set ups, very nice
great choice of boot blade!
I carry a Crocs knife. It’s a little small though. Lol. A Kabar BK11 neck knife works for me because I live in the DEEP south (HOT!) and a T-shirt/shorts is on the menu.
When working on a farm, or somewhere else that requires Duckies(half calf rubber boots), it is better to have the boot knife on the inside of the boot. Duckies are also easy to modify to attack a boot knife to. But, on the farm I worked at, I typically had 3 knives on me, a small pocket/utility knife, my belt knife, and my boot knife. All for different applications.
thats interesting, i never thought of that
Ive been eyeballing thoae exodus knives since you put out the first review. Like the slim profile. I have too many knives on my wishlist 😅
Are there any cowboy boot companies that make knife pockets or pockets of some kind inside/outside? If not, would be a good idea. I’ve seen tactical boot companies do it.
What if you don't wear boots, or shoes?
I'm a knife guy. I got lots of them but I rarely wear boots. I also have a neck knife but I'm like you as I don't like crap around my neck. I'm never with out a knife. NEVER.
BOOTS ARE BACK. Sales of Cowboy Boots are on the rise and not just for the young ladies that wear them for style.. I had always worn Cowboy Boots until I broke all of my toes in a jump in the service. But, ended up having the toes taken off from so many breaks. Now I am back in Boots just a size smaller and YES, I am back to having a Boot Knife.
CRKT BIWA. Its a nice little knife and honestly also looks cool as hell.
it does look pretty badass, good choice!
Cool video, James. I'm not much of a cowboy boots guy myself, so I often do carry a necker for all the same reasons you carry a boot knife. I like the concepts though.
Scotsmen used to carry an extra knife (because their main was kind of a short sword attached to their belts) on the inside of their high socks when they used to wear kilts the way we see them today (after the 1800s) now it's part of their traditional outfit for weddings etc. Personally, I find it more useful and practical when attached to the belt. If it's a folding knife then inside a pocket. Wearing it outside of a boot, any kind of boot there is a high chance you will lose it crossing a shallow river, bushes, climbing, running... It seems more like a movie or videogame way of carrying it, like in an assassin, thief, ranger kind of scenario where they need to have it hidden. About the neck knife... I don't know where this came from, probably before belts were invented.
I tried boot knives 30+ years ago just did not work for me may try it again as their are more options now and on how to attach them to a boot.
I do use a neck knife but since I live in the bush their are never any issues wearing one and it has worked for me dont think I will ever give it up...
I think it would be more effective if you buy a knife with Kydex sheath and secure sheath upside down so you are pulling knife down to remove it without having to pull your pant legs way up.
I also enjoy the cold steel spike too,
I have a pair of boots with a knife for awhile now and one thing is nice that I can be wearing pajamas and still got a blade on me
I carry up to 12 knives at a time
While not technically a boot knife, I do carry a skean dhu in the top of my hose (sock) when wearing my kilts
thats very intersting