TRAINING KNIVES by Tyr Neilsen

No other sentence better describes how important the knife was to Viking Age society, than the Nordic proverb “Knívleysur maður er lívleysur maður” which translates to “The knifeless man is a lifeless man”.

Recent statistics for knife attacks in the US, UK and Europe, would suggest that knowing how to to defend yourself against a knife attack is becoming more and more important. But, where do you start? How do you safely and effectively train with a knife? The answer lies in choosing the right training knife.

ombat glima weapon training with cold steel rubber training knives - dagger and ka-bar

When it comes to training knives, there are several options available. Rubber, wood, polymer, and aluminum are some of the most common materials used in making training knives. Each material has its own unique characteristics that affect the size, weight, and cutting edges of the training knife.

Selecting the right training knife for your needs is crucial. A training knife that is too light or too heavy can affect your training outcomes. A rubber training knife may be ideal for beginners as it is lightweight, flexible, and safe to use. Wood or polymer knives offer a more realistic weight and feel, while aluminum knives provide a more realistic weight and balance, albeit with a higher risk of injury.

(FROM LEFT TO RIGHT) COLD STEEL RUBBER TRAINING LAREDO BOWIE, LEATHERNECK - SF, PEACE KEEPER I, RECON TANTO, HARDWOOD TANTO, ALUMINUM TRAINING KNIFE.

The tip and blade edges of training knives are blunt, but differences exist in the cutting edges. Some training knives have one ‘cutting’ edge, while others have two, and there are a variety point shapes. These subtle differences can impact your training results, so it is essential to choose a training knife that suits your needs.

Training with a knife can be dangerous, especially when practicing unarmed self-defense techniques. This is where a training knife comes in handy. Using a training knife ensures your safety as you develop coordination, balance, muscle memory, and footwork. Your hand-eye coordination improves, and your reaction time is shortened. Your consciousness of the situation and how you move within it is heightened, and your focus is sharpened.

As you progress in your training, you will become more confident in handling a knife. With consistent practice, you will master knife skills that will come in handy in real-life situations.

Choosing the right training knife is crucial for effective knife training. Consider your needs and skill level before investing in a training knife, and always prioritize safety during training sessions.

NOTE: The previous Academy Modern Weapons articles focused on Bowie, Ka-Bar, dagger, tanto and folding knives, which make up the majority of training knife types.

To learn more about these knife types, just continue reading the following articles here: https://www.vikingmartialarts.com/modernweapons