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I bought the tac 2, was not very happy when I first held it. BUT when I clipped it to my boot and wore it all day long. In and our the car, lots of walking. No rubbing, didn't even notice it most of the time. Who knew.. I'm a boot knife guy. Thanks Zac, fantastic review.
Zac, I genuinely love the fact that within the first thirty seconds of the video you got to the point and were already showing us the first knife. I genuinely love you for that.
This video felt like a well written and very detailed explanation on why I need to start wearing a boot knife. Tips, suggestions, pros, cons, everything. Thank you for the awesome video!
I appreciate how you admitted your fascination w/ boot knives stems from your childhood & while I would never carry one I too was in love w/ the idea as a kid.
@Late to da Game that you have a boot knife? Or are you asking if you forget to bring it? If the latter then that's why you should have 2 knives in case you forget one. If the former I think you'd remember if you really needed it
Hi Zac, I haven´t watched the entire video yet but I did want to share that back in the 80´s I got a Western brand boot knife with a leather sheeth and I did cary it for a long time in a boot. However, for ease of access I switched the location of the knife to the small of my back (the sheeth inside of my pants) and slightly tilted towards my dominant hand. I still have the knife. I don´t carry it on a daily basis anymore (there´s no more need for it anymore) but I sometimes still stick it there while camping just for old times sake. I love that knife. Now, back to the video. Kind regards Alain
The gerber mark I (and the valor knockoff) was damn near a must have fashion accessory back in the late 70s early 80s. If you were really dedicated you had a custom sheath sewn into your boot
Some boots came from factory already with a knife sheath. It are standard issue here in Brazil for some EMT/Fire Departments and Highway Patrol units. But, more often, this sheath is used for rescue scissors instead knives.
I have a Ka-Bar TDI LDK laced up right in front of the tongue of my pair of Bates boots. It works very well, and you don’t even know it’s there. Personally I’d rather go with that than putting a knife inside of my boots. If you are looking for a nice little last ditch knife, look at the kabar tdi ltk. It’s also got a really nice point to it. I gave the skeletonized handle a paracord wrapping as well, and it fits great in the hand!
That's precisely what I do when I'm wearing lace-up boots, as well. Unfortunately, I prefer cowboy style slip-on boots, so it's a bit of a balancing act as to which I pick for the day. Ain't nothin' like a KA-BAR.
KABAR TDI LDK is definitely the knife to fit most footwear. I’ll wear a boot knife when hiking and for that I usually use a Cold Steel Bird&Game. Small, light, cheap, good sheath, and finger retention hole are big winners in this category. Be aware and be well my friends 💯🦾🤙
I carry the Cold Steel spike in spear point. Good general use, takes a good edge, thick enough to clean fish, back up dive knife. I carry on day pack boot carry fair. Thanks for the video. As a knife sharpener always good to see people thinking. StaySharp...Never a dull moment.😊
The Kershaw Secret Agent looks like a modern version of the old Special Agent which I carried for 30 something years. This had a leather sheath with a reliable dome fastener. Great knife! I now have a Smith & Wesson compact knife that is really unobtrusive.
I just started carrying a boot knife a few days ago. I went with the Axial Alpine with an Ulticlip. The clip works great in my boot and has no movement. I am very impressed with the Alpine and Axial as a company. I anticipate great things from them in the future!
Good review. One major consideration is whether the plastic sheath contains glass fibers. Glass fibers in the plastic will dull the edge when you sheath and unsheath the knife. CRKT started using glass fibers a few years ago and Cold Steel has followed more recently. Mora and Glock do not use glass fiber in their sheaths and never have, so their sheaths do not damage the edges of the blade. Have you found you need to resharpen your boot knife when you drew it from your sheath?
I'd rather focus on carrying an ankle medical kit..lots of other places to fit a fixed blade I've found. Most of my favorites involve a loop of paracord.
I got the Counter TAC 2 simply because I wanted a dagger. My boots aren't any good for boot carry, but for carrying under armpit or appendix on a stiff belt its size and sheath are amazing. It might not be the best at straight cuts, but it's a fast, nifty little blade. That tip loves to dig into anything, your hands included if you're not careful.
For those people who are not boot knife fans, these knives especially the cold steel is easy to make a paracord shoulder rig for them. I use the system for my cold steel safe Maker 1.
The schrade needle is what I currently have. It’s a bit on the small size, but that means you barely notice it in your boot. Good kydex sheath, good handle, nice retention. Really it has it all unless you want a bigger knife.
WTF are you doing stabbing wood?!? Unless you think you will be attacked by Treebeard….🙄. This is a weapon, not a general purpose edc. Used as intended, it’s fine.
I carried boot knives now since 1985. 1. Gotta have good ankle holster or boot that is able to secure easy. tie or strap is better than clip 2. T handle are best aka push "daggers" due to draw ability as don't need to clear pant bottom that easy 3 Recommend the Gerber Ghoststrike as easily mountable, ambi sheath and light weight
Love this video! I've been trying to decide on a good boot knife for when I'm out on my motorcycle. I'm planning some longer bike camping trips later this year going down the west coast and to visit friends in the southwest. Usually I just scout carry a Bradford Guardian, but getting that out in leathers while seated is a real bear. Boot carry just seems like the right way to go. Thanks for sharing!
Nice variety of knives! I had a boot knife back in the 80’s, I don’t remember the brand but it fell out of my boot, I didn’t think about using the lace to secure it, anyway the place where I lost it had a bunch of ivy in the yard and when they removed the ivy they found my knife. Of course, it was rusted and all messed up but at least it got back to me!
I got a short dagger from budk. I sewed a nylon strap to the nylon sheath. I strap it to my calf and put my boots on. Works well. I paid less than $15.00 for it. I live in 10 acres in Texas in a rural area. So I always carry many knives in me as well as a firearm of some sort. In Texas every man carries knives and one out of every 5 people are packing heat. So if you come here you're welcome to carry. If you pull out your weapons be prepared to have weapons pulled on you. Unless you're showing your weapons then all the men will stand around and want to take a look at it. We like reviewing each other's items. That's always acceptable.
I actually carry the Kershaw with my high vans from time to time. Actually works. The sheath almost touches the sole of the shoe but its still surprisingly wearable.
I carried a boot knife for a few years in an institutional kitchen. I worked many jobs in the kitchen, and having that knife right there, Receiving and stocking, cutting cardboard and strapping, cleaning, as a putty knife scraping that sludge and hard scraps, prying up stainless air filters over the fryers and grills, even jimmying a door for my boss after he locked his keys in the office. It was an old boning knife with a broken tip.
Just purchased your number 1 recommendation. Looking forward to seeing how it works for me, thank you for putting in the time to do the research for us. God bless you man 🙏🏾
I love how you're obviously a seriously rugged dude. Living the life, rough and tumble, but manage to always have stereotypical name brand rugged clothing that has always just been freshly unpacked. So fresh, so clean. Shine on brotha, shine on.
Hahaha... 👍 I was just about to write: "Who on Earth choses to pay Mr. Soft-Hands to promote such a useless foot product?" and then I saw your comment with a much better framing.
My favourite, and well worth a look if you ever come across one, is an original 80s Gerber Guardian Backup with the first series leather sheath. Originally designed by R.W. Loveless, it's very compact, with a flat handle that rides well and a secure low riding leather sheath that fits very comfortably inside a boot top without any top heavy wobble..
Benchmade SOCP Dagger would make a good one as well. You need taller boots for it, but it does look like they sell a mini as well. It is ambidextrous as to which way it fits into the sheath. Can get it to sit really deep in the boot so it doesn’t protrude up above the boot very far.
That's my favorite as well. Works great in cowboy boots (I hate even having type the "cowboy", to us they're just boots LOL). I don't think many people want to spend the money for a Benchmade for this purpose.
I’m a contractor and my EDC pocket knife is a…wait for it…a good folding utility knife LOL. I use it constantly, every day. And while it’s not a defensive knife, it CAN be. That being said, I also carry a S&W fixed blade in my boot. Great video!
I have the smith and Weston, it's been great in my jungle boots, only cost me around 17$USD, I live in Florida an we tend to get alot of rain and humidity here but with my usual upkeep (light coat of mineral oil) it hasn't rusted on me like a few other ones have, the only downside so far is the fact that It wasn't as sharp as I would of liked straight out the box and it's a little small for my hands, mind you I'm 6.4 so the ladder isn't a issue for most people...
My army boot use to hold a boot knife while I was a soldier in Desert Storm. Sure I had my machine gun, but I wanted that extra edge in case things ever got down and dirty. Thank God I never had to use it! With crime the way it is now.... I decided to buy a couple of boot knives and carry one in each boot. You never can be too careful in your old age.... lol.
Gerber Guardian was my go-to combat dagger when I was doing direct action. I never considered a boot knife, but I just gave it a shot, and this little guy works great for that too.
Bought 2 of these to try out. The Cold Steel carries like you don't know it's there. I ended up using the Kershaw as off hand IWB carry. Fits under a fishing shirt nicely.
I have the secret agent, I sharpened the other side as well. Clip fell off the sheath rather quickly. Attaches well with molle. You know where else it fits? Between two ribs!!
Never carried a boot knife until I became an Army Paratrooper and ALWAYS had a knife on the inside of my left foot for a jump after I left jump school. I would remove it when I hit the ground and put it somewhere else due to wait-a-minute vines.
The Kershaw Secret Agent looks nice.. although a knife in the boot seems sort of uncomfortable and not a good idea if you carry for defense out in nature.. me personally i would like a video that shows different scout knives that sit horizontally.. whoever created the vertical fixed blade sheaths obviously never wore one themselves and realized how uncomfortable they are when sitting/driving.. thanks for the video ✌️
Hi Zac. I have never carried a boot knife . I do own a Cold Steel Peace Maker , the smaller one and it came sharp , has a sharp spine is light weight , has a great metal retention clip . I don't know how it is as a boot knife but I think for a all around back up or even primary it's great . I think it's designed as a boot knife . Thanks
Nice! Thank you. I made the decision long ago to never keep a knive in my boot, but I was thinking of it as a primary defense, NEVER as a secondary EDC. Thank you for changing my mind, though I'm sure I'll hear about it from my wife!
I had a couple of cheap Gerber MkI copies in succession years ago. Think they were $10 knives. Traded them with the last one going even-up for a real Gerber Guardian that I still have - luckily. Almost lost the Gerber when carrying in my boot and running. It popped out of the scabbard and gravity cause it to impale my trouser cuff. Thought about finding a Kydex sheath, but decided instead it should be retired along with my MkII. Haven’t really been ito boot knives since, but that Civici looks promising. I lost interest in Cold Steel after encountering a complete total lack of response from customer service over replacing minor parts such as clips on folders. Anyway, this was a good presentation.
One thing to note about most of those knifes, you can carry them on your belt ad well (admittedly your have to find a good place for it) I have found in the event I am not wearing a boot with CT-2 my flank right behind my waist is a solid place for me when I am wearing a suit or vest
I can personally attest to the smith and Wesson being a great cowboy boot carry. I’ve got one of them and it’s my usual boot carry. I put it at the back where the top of my cowboy boot curves down off to one side
My personal favorite boot knife is a gerber guardian. My wife bought it for me 30 plus years ago nothing says I love you like double edge blade I knew she was a keeper.
I have owned a Parker Cut, Co Smokey Mountain ultra lite, "boot knife" for 45 years. never wore it in my boot. The Kershaw dagger looks light and edgy, the Civivi mini fixed blade is fine though I cannot see carrying a footwear knife at all.
I’ve actually been carrying a backup knife in my boot lately as well, and the knives I’ve been using as a boot knife are otfs! So far I’ve been carrying the infidel and it’s been great. Great spot for it in my cowboy boots.
97% of people buy boot knives exclusively because they wanted one when they were kids and couldn't have one. I think the same probably goes for Italian stiletto switchblades, especially the ones with floating crossbars. I always thought they were badass, I did have a couple ones without the floating guard, but at soon as I could but them online, I did. It was cool…all but useless as an actual functioning knife, but cool.
Had a pretty nice Jaggdkommando years and years ago with a modified sheath for boot carry. Unfortunately in my state boot knives are considered a concealed weapon, and a felony. My personal opinion is that they're cool, but they're a novelty. You don't want to use a knife to defend yourself, dual edged blades are impractical for utility purposes (when compared to single edged knives), and having a blade in your boot is overall less convenient than on your belt or in your pocket/pant line. Fun to throw, though! Get good enough with em' and you can stick em' into trees pretty consistently.
KABAR TDI LDK is definitely the knife to fit most footwear. I’ll wear a boot knife when hiking and for that I usually use a Cold Steel Bird&Game. Small, light, cheap, good sheath, and finger retention hole are big winners in this category. I’m really liking that Civivi though! Be aware and be well my friends 💯🦾🤙
I wear a S&W 3" boot knife daily at work simply because I sit for the majority of the day and virtually every other carry option is impeded, and a boot option is the quickest / easiest option to get to. Food for thought.
I'm giving a granddaughter the Secret Agent. (yes, her mom knows and approves) I took it out of the box today. Great retention in the sheath, which has very convenient strap loops, this could go under a sleeve, on a belt, boot, vest, pack strap. It felt good in the hands an old guy with a 5'8" frame. And the fact that one edge is not sharpened still makes it a tool. I'm also getting her a 325/1200 grit diamond sharpener, because it is a good skill to have.
just ordered a Tac 2 for my next mall ninja tacticool adventure. seriously tho, at the price an easy purchase even if it never leaves garage or trail pack duty. thanks Zac!
I have the Gerber Frisco Shiv, designed by Blackie Collins. I think I bought it back in the 80's. I actually wear it as a neck knife and I find it much easier to get to and use when I need it.
I just bought the Tac 2 and I love it !!! I have a micro tech utx-85 ,trodon , Benchmade 940 ,Exo reate , kershaw launch 11 , Clinch Pick 2.0 but damn this lil guy hits different and way cheaper then any of those 😂⚔️
Scout carry. There's the solution. And what I do. You can still keep it on your belt, without it sticking out, or rubbing on you. That S&W dagger is nice though. Besides, I'd have to find a big clip to fit over the big puffy part of Timberland boots...
the handle on that thing would drive me nuts for more than one reason as a boot carry. ill take a karambit or push dagger the profile and draw style both lend themselves better to the bootcarry. knife in the video would be better deployed from the shin/thigh with a leg holster since its already three qquaters of the way up his shin
Personally my favorite boot knife is the benchmade s.o.c.p. retention on the knife in the sheath and sheath to the boot is just right its easy to get in and out and stays in place and it's so slim it's the only knife I've ever forgotten it's there
Tried the boot knife. Found it very annoying and slow to pull. I went with a punch dagger. Small, quick, and doesn’t require much thought or training to use. The best part is that it is very concealable in the waistband. Without being uncomfortable or annoying! I recommend the cold steel peace maker 2
You missed out on the Gerber Guardian 2 which i have been EDC since 2000 from a boot to neck, belt carry vertical or inverted on webbing with para certification too; it is able to withstand salt water immersion 2 weeks without any effects, no cleansing even. Mine is a serial numbered.
I have one of the Smith and Wesson ones, nice knife, but one thing he didn't mention, is that the handle has two "horns" at the end, and if the knife walks back and forth on your leg, those horns dig into your leg, taking the handles off would probably fix it, or sanding them down, like I've been meaning to do.
Hey brother the last boot knife that you had was definitely the best one for sure I have a 7 inch double edge Valor that is 7 inches that is a lot like yours! Great choice
For almost three years now I've carried a boot knife in my boot. Actually, a neck knife: Acta Non Verba P100 Neck Knife 3" N690 Black Cerakote Drop Point, One-Piece Construction, Black Paracord Wrapped Handles, Black Kydex Sheath - ANVP100-015 ( copied and pasted from product page). The boots I wear are made by 5.11 and are specifically designed for a boot knife with a pocket made to hold a knife on the outside of either boot. This knife is the perfect size with sheath to fit in that pocket. Now, I did attach a small ulti-clip to the sheath for retainment, and, while there is some marking on the leather from it, it's pretty minimal-- though I rarely even remove the sheath from the boot being it lives there so nicely. I even wear these boots with shorts. I've found the majority of people are lacking in observation skills and seldom look down, except to look at their phones, so I never worry about being called out for it. Plus, with it being all black and pretty small in size it blends in well with black boots and black socks, which is another advantage. On the downside of the ulti-clip, I have caught the clip lever on stuff when stepping down that has unlocked it causing the sheath/knife to come off the boot, but thankfully I noticed it right away so I haven't lost it, but it is something to watch out for... especially while wearing shorts, if you ever do. Anyway, as always, loved the video! Take care!!!
I tried to carry a boot knife. It is extremely uncomfortable. I figured out if you take a piece of a leather belt and just run it around the back of your boot and put a hole so it can be held by the laces. Then you can use the belt clips. Works extremely well.
Cold steel spike with an ulticlip (small zip ties to put the clip on the sheath b/c the CS spike sheath holes are tiny) and i have the CS drop forged boot knife. They both work great. Very thin and the sheaths are thin. Been carrying 1 or the other on my boot for like 6-8 yrs and i have never had the unti clips damage the boot.
I used to carry a spiderco folder in my boot when i was in the army. Dont know its there unless you re looking for it. Even then cops have missed it on a patdown. Also dont get hit with a concealed weapons charge with the shorter blade.
I never carried a boot knife but did carry an off duty pistol on my ankle years ago. The trick I used for easier access was I had the inseam on the carry leg taken apart and inserted velcro so the first foot or so would easily come open and give access to the gun. It's a nice move if you are going to be carrying this all the time.
Work with Nick's to have a "pocket" for boot knives as an option for some of their models, a layer to keep the knife away from Your skin/socks and another pocket to cover the clip, and if possible kant it slightly outwards, or a collab with buck, down the road, a folder with a thumbstud to have it open when You draw the knife, or just for a folder, to flip or thumb up.
An alternative to the clip is using a loop of paracord around the ankle, tied to the tip of the sheath. As you draw the knife, the paracord pulls up against your calf muscle and the sheath pops off. This only works in combat or hiking boots. Cowboy boots are too loose to hold the knife in place strictly by friction.
I started wearing a knife in my boot about 2016. At first I carried the esee 3mil, micarta scales on the outside of my boot with a lanyard from the sheath arround the bottom to tie it securely as it was extremely top heavy for wellington style work boots. 2018 new boots, new knife. I got a pair of Justin lace ups 8 or so inch side. With the esee 3 being top heavy for what I really wanted, I got the izulla2 for the new pair. Micarta scales, poly sheath. The spring clip on the back is perfect for securing the sheath without getting in the way, and taking it completely off if need be. As with most esee sheaths there is plenty of room for a thumb deployment of the knife, and sheaths just as easy. I needed a back up utility blade that I could always have on me. The izula 2 is the perfect blade for whit I needed. Indestructible, almost a full grip light no edges or rubber parts to catch or chafe. I've never liked dagger style blades, but a boot knife is a great place to carry if you work around anything a pocket clip may scratch.
We are headed to SHOT Show 2023 make sure you are following the channels for coverage of all the best new stuff! fortwild.com/pages/get-ready-for-shot-show-2023
You inspired me to go back to school and I just joined my local Carpenters union of Detroit. Thanks for being an awesome badass man🤘🏼
I still want that purple kalashnikov though….
Thanks Another fine informative one That’s all I ask
70k subscribers congrats dude🎉🎉
@zacinthewild
What kind of boots are you wearing?
I’ve never considered a boot knife before. My wife thanks you for another totally necessary knife purchase.
Lol glad to hear I could help!
Most, if not all knife purchases are totally necessary. Anyone who says otherwise is misinformed.
ugh me too now 😂
Every man should carry a knife. Exceptional men should carry multiple. Sounds like your wife is at fault for marrying an exceptional man.
@@edwardmarshall2035 TIL I'm exceptional, and all it took was an extra knife in my pocket!
I bought the tac 2, was not very happy when I first held it. BUT when I clipped it to my boot and wore it all day long. In and our the car, lots of walking. No rubbing, didn't even notice it most of the time.
Who knew.. I'm a boot knife guy. Thanks Zac, fantastic review.
Zac, I genuinely love the fact that within the first thirty seconds of the video you got to the point and were already showing us the first knife. I genuinely love you for that.
And still gives 12 minutes of good content
Hallelujah
This video felt like a well written and very detailed explanation on why I need to start wearing a boot knife. Tips, suggestions, pros, cons, everything. Thank you for the awesome video!
Thanks! Really means a lot🤘
I appreciate how you admitted your fascination w/ boot knives stems from your childhood & while I would never carry one I too was in love w/ the idea as a kid.
I've been carrying a Gerber MK 1 for over 45 years. I love it.
I love you Zac 😂 the dedication to carry a boot knife for two years to make such a comprehensive video. I’m gonna try one just because of this!
The concept of the boot knife as an edc utility is great. Even if it's not the BEST knife, the knife you have is always better than the one you dont.
But what if you don't remember?
@Late to da Game that you have a boot knife? Or are you asking if you forget to bring it? If the latter then that's why you should have 2 knives in case you forget one. If the former I think you'd remember if you really needed it
got me a buck 616 about 2 years ago and I absolutely love it. I go from neck carry and boot carry with it. Absolutely beast of a little knife.
Have carried my Kershaw Secret Agent for over 10 years. Great knife!!! Thanks for the confirmation.
Hi Zac, I haven´t watched the entire video yet but I did want to share that back in the 80´s I got a Western brand boot knife with a leather sheeth and I did cary it for a long time in a boot. However, for ease of access I switched the location of the knife to the small of my back (the sheeth inside of my pants) and slightly tilted towards my dominant hand. I still have the knife. I don´t carry it on a daily basis anymore (there´s no more need for it anymore) but I sometimes still stick it there while camping just for old times sake. I love that knife. Now, back to the video.
Kind regards
Alain
The gerber mark I (and the valor knockoff) was damn near a must have fashion accessory back in the late 70s early 80s. If you were really dedicated you had a custom sheath sewn into your boot
This is the way
Some boots came from factory already with a knife sheath. It are standard issue here in Brazil for some EMT/Fire Departments and Highway Patrol units. But, more often, this sheath is used for rescue scissors instead knives.
leaves all these wannabes, especially the cold steel ripoff, crying
I have a Ka-Bar TDI LDK laced up right in front of the tongue of my pair of Bates boots. It works very well, and you don’t even know it’s there. Personally I’d rather go with that than putting a knife inside of my boots. If you are looking for a nice little last ditch knife, look at the kabar tdi ltk. It’s also got a really nice point to it. I gave the skeletonized handle a paracord wrapping as well, and it fits great in the hand!
Ka-Bar is tried and true
That's precisely what I do when I'm wearing lace-up boots, as well.
Unfortunately, I prefer cowboy style slip-on boots, so it's a bit of a balancing act as to which I pick for the day.
Ain't nothin' like a KA-BAR.
KABAR TDI LDK is definitely the knife to fit most footwear.
I’ll wear a boot knife when hiking and for that I usually use a Cold Steel Bird&Game. Small, light, cheap, good sheath, and finger retention hole are big winners in this category.
Be aware and be well my friends 💯🦾🤙
I carry the Cold Steel spike in spear point. Good general use, takes a good edge, thick enough to clean fish, back up dive knife. I carry on day pack boot carry fair. Thanks for the video. As a knife sharpener always good to see people thinking. StaySharp...Never a dull moment.😊
The Kershaw Secret Agent looks like a modern version of the old Special Agent which I carried for 30 something years. This had a leather sheath with a reliable dome fastener. Great knife! I now have a Smith & Wesson compact knife that is really unobtrusive.
Cool video. I'm not a boot knife guy, but I liked seeing the pros/cons and hearing the thoughts of someone with years of experience.
I just started carrying a boot knife a few days ago. I went with the Axial Alpine with an Ulticlip. The clip works great in my boot and has no movement. I am very impressed with the Alpine and Axial as a company. I anticipate great things from them in the future!
Rad! I love the look and feel of that Alpine. Totally agree that Axial is a company to watch🤘
Good review. One major consideration is whether the plastic sheath contains glass fibers. Glass fibers in the plastic will dull the edge when you sheath and unsheath the knife. CRKT started using glass fibers a few years ago and Cold Steel has followed more recently. Mora and Glock do not use glass fiber in their sheaths and never have, so their sheaths do not damage the edges of the blade. Have you found you need to resharpen your boot knife when you drew it from your sheath?
I'd rather focus on carrying an ankle medical kit..lots of other places to fit a fixed blade I've found. Most of my favorites involve a loop of paracord.
Great alternative for sure! I’ve tried in the past and it always feels bulky. Any suggestions?
I got the Counter TAC 2 simply because I wanted a dagger. My boots aren't any good for boot carry, but for carrying under armpit or appendix on a stiff belt its size and sheath are amazing. It might not be the best at straight cuts, but it's a fast, nifty little blade. That tip loves to dig into anything, your hands included if you're not careful.
Very true in the blade profile. It makes a great neck knife too!
For those people who are not boot knife fans, these knives especially the cold steel is easy to make a paracord shoulder rig for them. I use the system for my cold steel safe Maker 1.
The schrade needle is what I currently have. It’s a bit on the small size, but that means you barely notice it in your boot. Good kydex sheath, good handle, nice retention. Really it has it all unless you want a bigger knife.
Smith and session HRT is my go to. All the advantages of the one you mentioned, same sheath, but much less handle heavy. Plus very budget friendly
The hrt sucks, I stabbed some wood with it a couple tunes and the tip broke off.
WTF are you doing stabbing wood?!? Unless you think you will be attacked by Treebeard….🙄. This is a weapon, not a general purpose edc. Used as intended, it’s fine.
My daughter carries one in her Justin's. Can't beat it. Won't cry if you loose it.
@@sethklikesguns Why are you stabbing wood with it in the first place? This ain't a bushcraft knife.
I carried boot knives now since 1985.
1. Gotta have good ankle holster or boot that is able to secure easy. tie or strap is better than clip
2. T handle are best aka push "daggers"
due to draw ability as don't need to clear pant bottom that easy
3 Recommend the Gerber Ghoststrike
as easily mountable, ambi sheath and light weight
Love this video! I've been trying to decide on a good boot knife for when I'm out on my motorcycle. I'm planning some longer bike camping trips later this year going down the west coast and to visit friends in the southwest. Usually I just scout carry a Bradford Guardian, but getting that out in leathers while seated is a real bear. Boot carry just seems like the right way to go. Thanks for sharing!
Nice variety of knives! I had a boot knife back in the 80’s, I don’t remember the brand but it fell out of my boot, I didn’t think about using the lace to secure it, anyway the place where I lost it had a bunch of ivy in the yard and when they removed the ivy they found my knife. Of course, it was rusted and all messed up but at least it got back to me!
I got a short dagger from budk. I sewed a nylon strap to the nylon sheath. I strap it to my calf and put my boots on. Works well. I paid less than $15.00 for it. I live in 10 acres in Texas in a rural area. So I always carry many knives in me as well as a firearm of some sort. In Texas every man carries knives and one out of every 5 people are packing heat. So if you come here you're welcome to carry. If you pull out your weapons be prepared to have weapons pulled on you. Unless you're showing your weapons then all the men will stand around and want to take a look at it. We like reviewing each other's items. That's always acceptable.
I actually carry the Kershaw with my high vans from time to time. Actually works. The sheath almost touches the sole of the shoe but its still surprisingly wearable.
I carried a boot knife for a few years in an institutional kitchen. I worked many jobs in the kitchen, and having that knife right there, Receiving and stocking, cutting cardboard and strapping, cleaning, as a putty knife scraping that sludge and hard scraps, prying up stainless air filters over the fryers and grills, even jimmying a door for my boss after he locked his keys in the office. It was an old boning knife with a broken tip.
Just purchased your number 1 recommendation. Looking forward to seeing how it works for me, thank you for putting in the time to do the research for us. God bless you man 🙏🏾
Awesome…….I have 2 of these and I’ll be checking out the Circulus CIVIVI soon. Thanks
When I was deployed, my favorite boot knife was the Gerber Guardian. That knife was perfect for me. I sadly lost it, wish it was still in production.
I have carried a Gerber guardian, literally for decades I have a couple of spares. I find them at gun shows, and swap shops quite reasonably.
@@missourirebel9669 Me too. A great R.W. Loveless design.
I've got one somewhere. It was a nice little knife but it really really really rattled in the sheath.
Might be a niche for Ben to design a good utility boot knife. If I reach for a self defense tool in my boot it would probably be a .38.
Galco ankle glove is a great rig. (S&W 640)
@@charlessalmond7076 440. Lol
I carry a knife cause it doesn't draw attention
@@Hammer1978 That's what concealed carry is for.
@@flaco5581 nice. My 640 in .357mag was my fathers. Its a great gun.
I love how you're obviously a seriously rugged dude. Living the life, rough and tumble, but manage to always have stereotypical name brand rugged clothing that has always just been freshly unpacked. So fresh, so clean. Shine on brotha, shine on.
Hahaha... 👍 I was just about to write: "Who on Earth choses to pay Mr. Soft-Hands to promote such a useless foot product?" and then I saw your comment with a much better framing.
@@bjarkenielsen8515😂 glad you got a chuckle.
You missed the best option for a boot knife from Smith and Wesson. The SW HRT series, specifically the 3BF model.
My favourite, and well worth a look if you ever come across one, is an original 80s Gerber Guardian Backup with the first series leather sheath. Originally designed by R.W. Loveless, it's very compact, with a flat handle that rides well and a secure low riding leather sheath that fits very comfortably inside a boot top without any top heavy wobble..
Not really a boot knife guy since I wear Vans a lot but this is all super useful information. Cold Steel has always been a go to brand for me anyway.
Benchmade SOCP Dagger would make a good one as well. You need taller boots for it, but it does look like they sell a mini as well. It is ambidextrous as to which way it fits into the sheath. Can get it to sit really deep in the boot so it doesn’t protrude up above the boot very far.
That's my favorite as well. Works great in cowboy boots (I hate even having type the "cowboy", to us they're just boots LOL). I don't think many people want to spend the money for a Benchmade for this purpose.
I’m a contractor and my EDC pocket knife is a…wait for it…a good folding utility knife LOL. I use it constantly, every day. And while it’s not a defensive knife, it CAN be. That being said, I also carry a S&W fixed blade in my boot. Great video!
I have the smith and Weston, it's been great in my jungle boots, only cost me around 17$USD, I live in Florida an we tend to get alot of rain and humidity here but with my usual upkeep (light coat of mineral oil) it hasn't rusted on me like a few other ones have, the only downside so far is the fact that It wasn't as sharp as I would of liked straight out the box and it's a little small for my hands, mind you I'm 6.4 so the ladder isn't a issue for most people...
I really love my Kershaw Secret agent, I also like S&W "descret" boot knife for a very small and low vis carry, and final the S&W HRT3 boot knife.
I've been carrying a boot knife for probably 7 years. Cold Steel Hideout, hilt down, on the outside of my boot.
My army boot use to hold a boot knife while I was a soldier in Desert Storm. Sure I had my machine gun, but I wanted that extra edge in case things ever got down and dirty. Thank God I never had to use it! With crime the way it is now.... I decided to buy a couple of boot knives and carry one in each boot. You never can be too careful in your old age.... lol.
I have been carrying a Gerber Guardian for decades now love this knife
Gerber Guardian was my go-to combat dagger when I was doing direct action. I never considered a boot knife, but I just gave it a shot, and this little guy works great for that too.
Bought 2 of these to try out. The Cold Steel carries like you don't know it's there. I ended up using the Kershaw as off hand IWB carry. Fits under a fishing shirt nicely.
I have the secret agent, I sharpened the other side as well. Clip fell off the sheath rather quickly. Attaches well with molle. You know where else it fits? Between two ribs!!
Never carried a boot knife until I became an Army Paratrooper and ALWAYS had a knife on the inside of my left foot for a jump after I left jump school. I would remove it when I hit the ground and put it somewhere else due to wait-a-minute vines.
The Kershaw Secret Agent looks nice.. although a knife in the boot seems sort of uncomfortable and not a good idea if you carry for defense out in nature.. me personally i would like a video that shows different scout knives that sit horizontally.. whoever created the vertical fixed blade sheaths obviously never wore one themselves and realized how uncomfortable they are when sitting/driving.. thanks for the video ✌️
I love my country. We can make videos about boot knives. We are truly blessed 🙏
Hi Zac. I have never carried a boot knife . I do own a Cold Steel Peace Maker , the smaller one and it came sharp , has a sharp spine is light weight , has a great metal retention clip . I don't know how it is as a boot knife but I think for a all around back up or even primary it's great . I think it's designed as a boot knife . Thanks
Nice! Thank you. I made the decision long ago to never keep a knive in my boot, but I was thinking of it as a primary defense, NEVER as a secondary EDC. Thank you for changing my mind, though I'm sure I'll hear about it from my wife!
I had a couple of cheap Gerber MkI copies in succession years ago. Think they were $10 knives. Traded them with the last one going even-up for a real Gerber Guardian that I still have - luckily. Almost lost the Gerber when carrying in my boot and running. It popped out of the scabbard and gravity cause it to impale my trouser cuff. Thought about finding a Kydex sheath, but decided instead it should be retired along with my MkII. Haven’t really been ito boot knives since, but that Civici looks promising. I lost interest in Cold Steel after encountering a complete total lack of response from customer service over replacing minor parts such as clips on folders. Anyway, this was a good presentation.
One thing to note about most of those knifes, you can carry them on your belt ad well (admittedly your have to find a good place for it) I have found in the event I am not wearing a boot with CT-2 my flank right behind my waist is a solid place for me when I am wearing a suit or vest
I was always interested in a boot knife but have never owned one. I can now make a purchase with confidence. Thanks for making this video.
Glad it was helpful!
I can personally attest to the smith and Wesson being a great cowboy boot carry. I’ve got one of them and it’s my usual boot carry. I put it at the back where the top of my cowboy boot curves down off to one side
My personal favorite boot knife is a gerber guardian. My wife bought it for me 30 plus years ago nothing says I love you like double edge blade I knew she was a keeper.
Never got to carry one but I’ve heard they were great!
I have a Western 777 Has been with me for 30 years, Not pretty anymore, Just works well, Would love to have 2 More 😁😇
I had my doubts. Not anymore. I will buy the CS Counter Tac II. Thank you. Great video. Thumbs up!
Cold steel countertac has a lousy clip,but has a 3 sided blade i love that
Really cool to see you go in-depth for boot knives!
I’ve been wearing a s&w hrt every day for the past two years. Im very happy with it.
I have owned a Parker Cut, Co Smokey Mountain ultra lite, "boot knife" for 45 years. never wore it in my boot. The Kershaw dagger looks light and edgy, the Civivi mini fixed blade is fine though I cannot see carrying a footwear knife at all.
I’ve actually been carrying a backup knife in my boot lately as well, and the knives I’ve been using as a boot knife are otfs! So far I’ve been carrying the infidel and it’s been great. Great spot for it in my cowboy boots.
97% of people buy boot knives exclusively because they wanted one when they were kids and couldn't have one. I think the same probably goes for Italian stiletto switchblades, especially the ones with floating crossbars. I always thought they were badass, I did have a couple ones without the floating guard, but at soon as I could but them online, I did.
It was cool…all but useless as an actual functioning knife, but cool.
The Counter Tac II makes an incredible forget-until-you-need neck knife. I can’t wait to try it in my boot. Great video!
Totally agree!
I used to carry the schade old timer boot knife. Admittedly not a good boot knife. Thanks for the list of good ones!
Had a pretty nice Jaggdkommando years and years ago with a modified sheath for boot carry. Unfortunately in my state boot knives are considered a concealed weapon, and a felony.
My personal opinion is that they're cool, but they're a novelty. You don't want to use a knife to defend yourself, dual edged blades are impractical for utility purposes (when compared to single edged knives), and having a blade in your boot is overall less convenient than on your belt or in your pocket/pant line. Fun to throw, though! Get good enough with em' and you can stick em' into trees pretty consistently.
I really enjoyed the format of this video. Well laid out and in-depth.
KABAR TDI LDK is definitely the knife to fit most footwear.
I’ll wear a boot knife when hiking and for that I usually use a Cold Steel Bird&Game. Small, light, cheap, good sheath, and finger retention hole are big winners in this category.
I’m really liking that Civivi though!
Be aware and be well my friends 💯🦾🤙
I wear a S&W 3" boot knife daily at work simply because I sit for the majority of the day and virtually every other carry option is impeded, and a boot option is the quickest / easiest option to get to. Food for thought.
I'm giving a granddaughter the Secret Agent. (yes, her mom knows and approves) I took it out of the box today. Great retention in the sheath, which has very convenient strap loops, this could go under a sleeve, on a belt, boot, vest, pack strap. It felt good in the hands an old guy with a 5'8" frame. And the fact that one edge is not sharpened still makes it a tool. I'm also getting her a 325/1200 grit diamond sharpener, because it is a good skill to have.
just ordered a Tac 2 for my next mall ninja tacticool adventure. seriously tho, at the price an easy purchase even if it never leaves garage or trail pack duty. thanks Zac!
I have the Gerber Frisco Shiv, designed by Blackie Collins. I think I bought it back in the 80's. I actually wear it as a neck knife and I find it much easier to get to and use when I need it.
Neck knife is definitely more convenient then boot🤘
I love cold steel knives i look to them before any other brands when i want to make a purchase. Best bang for the buck in my opinion.
lovw boot knnives so usefull when working in the ranch.
I just bought the Tac 2 and I love it !!! I have a micro tech utx-85 ,trodon , Benchmade 940 ,Exo reate , kershaw launch 11 , Clinch Pick 2.0 but damn this lil guy hits different and way cheaper then any of those 😂⚔️
Scout carry. There's the solution. And what I do. You can still keep it on your belt, without it sticking out, or rubbing on you. That S&W dagger is nice though.
Besides, I'd have to find a big clip to fit over the big puffy part of Timberland boots...
the handle on that thing would drive me nuts for more than one reason as a boot carry. ill take a karambit or push dagger the profile and draw style both lend themselves better to the bootcarry.
knife in the video would be better deployed from the shin/thigh with a leg holster since its already three qquaters of the way up his shin
Personally my favorite boot knife is the benchmade s.o.c.p. retention on the knife in the sheath and sheath to the boot is just right its easy to get in and out and stays in place and it's so slim it's the only knife I've ever forgotten it's there
Tried the boot knife.
Found it very annoying and slow to pull.
I went with a punch dagger.
Small, quick, and doesn’t require much thought or training to use.
The best part is that it is very concealable in the waistband. Without being uncomfortable or annoying!
I recommend the cold steel peace maker 2
You missed out on the Gerber Guardian 2 which i have been EDC since 2000 from a boot to neck, belt carry vertical or inverted on webbing with para certification too; it is able to withstand salt water immersion 2 weeks without any effects, no cleansing even.
Mine is a serial numbered.
Great video! Might try and carry a boot knife now. I feel like Jakebcreates chickadee would be a cool boot Knife if only it had a proper sheath.
I have one of the Smith and Wesson ones, nice knife, but one thing he didn't mention, is that the handle has two "horns" at the end, and if the knife walks back and forth on your leg, those horns dig into your leg, taking the handles off would probably fix it, or sanding them down, like I've been meaning to do.
Hey brother the last boot knife that you had was definitely the best one for sure I have a 7 inch double edge Valor that is 7 inches that is a lot like yours! Great choice
Bro that S and W is massive
For almost three years now I've carried a boot knife in my boot. Actually, a neck knife: Acta Non Verba P100 Neck Knife 3" N690 Black Cerakote Drop Point, One-Piece Construction, Black Paracord Wrapped Handles, Black Kydex Sheath - ANVP100-015 ( copied and pasted from product page). The boots I wear are made by 5.11 and are specifically designed for a boot knife with a pocket made to hold a knife on the outside of either boot. This knife is the perfect size with sheath to fit in that pocket. Now, I did attach a small ulti-clip to the sheath for retainment, and, while there is some marking on the leather from it, it's pretty minimal-- though I rarely even remove the sheath from the boot being it lives there so nicely. I even wear these boots with shorts. I've found the majority of people are lacking in observation skills and seldom look down, except to look at their phones, so I never worry about being called out for it. Plus, with it being all black and pretty small in size it blends in well with black boots and black socks, which is another advantage.
On the downside of the ulti-clip, I have caught the clip lever on stuff when stepping down that has unlocked it causing the sheath/knife to come off the boot, but thankfully I noticed it right away so I haven't lost it, but it is something to watch out for... especially while wearing shorts, if you ever do.
Anyway, as always, loved the video! Take care!!!
I tried to carry a boot knife. It is extremely uncomfortable. I figured out if you take a piece of a leather belt and just run it around the back of your boot and put a hole so it can be held by the laces. Then you can use the belt clips. Works extremely well.
Cold steel spike with an ulticlip (small zip ties to put the clip on the sheath b/c the CS spike sheath holes are tiny) and i have the CS drop forged boot knife. They both work great. Very thin and the sheaths are thin. Been carrying 1 or the other on my boot for like 6-8 yrs and i have never had the unti clips damage the boot.
Awesome!
I have carried the S&W for years. It ate holes in all my work jeans but it was a sturdy piece of equipment when I needed it.
Easy solution for not getting holes in your pants…. wear a kilt 😊
Carried a boot knife for years when I was much younger. I like them.
Man you’re good at making me buy knives. Just one video and I already have 3 knives in the cart
I used to carry a spiderco folder in my boot when i was in the army. Dont know its there unless you re looking for it. Even then cops have missed it on a patdown. Also dont get hit with a concealed weapons charge with the shorter blade.
i have personally been using the gerber basic drop point as a boot knife for around a year, works great for me.
I never carried a boot knife but did carry an off duty pistol on my ankle years ago. The trick I used for easier access was I had the inseam on the carry leg taken apart and inserted velcro so the first foot or so would easily come open and give access to the gun. It's a nice move if you are going to be carrying this all the time.
You should throw a video of how to do that up.
Scuba knife works great and has spring retainer
Work with Nick's to have a "pocket" for boot knives as an option for some of their models, a layer to keep the knife away from Your skin/socks and another pocket to cover the clip, and if possible kant it slightly outwards, or a collab with buck, down the road, a folder with a thumbstud to have it open when You draw the knife, or just for a folder, to flip or thumb up.
An alternative to the clip is using a loop of paracord around the ankle, tied to the tip of the sheath. As you draw the knife, the paracord pulls up against your calf muscle and the sheath pops off. This only works in combat or hiking boots. Cowboy boots are too loose to hold the knife in place strictly by friction.
I started wearing a knife in my boot about 2016.
At first I carried the esee 3mil, micarta scales on the outside of my boot with a lanyard from the sheath arround the bottom to tie it securely as it was extremely top heavy for wellington style work boots.
2018 new boots, new knife. I got a pair of Justin lace ups 8 or so inch side. With the esee 3 being top heavy for what I really wanted, I got the izulla2 for the new pair. Micarta scales, poly sheath. The spring clip on the back is perfect for securing the sheath without getting in the way, and taking it completely off if need be.
As with most esee sheaths there is plenty of room for a thumb deployment of the knife, and sheaths just as easy.
I needed a back up utility blade that I could always have on me. The izula 2 is the perfect blade for whit I needed. Indestructible, almost a full grip light no edges or rubber parts to catch or chafe. I've never liked dagger style blades, but a boot knife is a great place to carry if you work around anything a pocket clip may scratch.