Coming from a family of LEO and living in Georgia, we usually get the opposite, lol! The LEO will usually ask what you are carrying because they enjoy firearms too lol...that was a incredibly rude thing the Sheriff did especially, in the way it was presented.
jsanders031 lol when I see a cop standing in line armed Ill usualy just mutter off the gun model to them as a question, lol like hey...glock 23? they almost always smile and say yes I was wrong once about a 1911 and got the wrong brand, I was ashamed, lol
cutlerylover I had an officer pull me over for no reason in West Va and he had me take my Neck knife off and throw it in the floor board on the other side lol by the time we were done talking he had me get it so he could see it :D then I asked him why he pulled me over and he gave me some lame excuse bout thinking my tags were expired and then their computers being down and couldn't run them.
+cutlerylover That's funny. I had a similar experience in a airport in Yuma, AZ. A border patrol agent was checking people on the ramp and when he got to me I said, "Not that you guys don't deserve the best, but H&K? Why didn't they just buy you two Glocks." He said his off duty carry and home protection gun are both glocks, and we talked about guns for the next 10 minuets, then he moved on. He didn't ask me a single question.
+jsanders031 NC here, same thing!! :) They wanna know what you're carrying, why you like it, why you don't, what loads you shoot, etc, etc. They'll stop and talk shop and not bat an eye. I love the south!
Good story Jeff, I think you handled yourself very well. You should have gave that older woman a high five. lol. A few years back after coming out of a store I was sitting in my vehicle opening some packaging with my knife and as I was doing so I noticed an older woman making her way over towards me looking like she wanted to talk to me, so put my window down and she said "I noticed you have a knife, could you open this for me?" Mind you the knife I was using could be perceived as scary to some people, obviously not to that older woman. :) I thought it was pretty cool that she felt comfortable enough to ask me such a question.
Actually, I 'm not very surprised that some older people aren't scared of knives since 30-40 years ago carrying a pocket knife was much more socially accepted than today. In more recent years, a lot of younger people became knife-phobics because of the fear-spreading media and of course the silly knife laws
Tat2Dragons awesome yeah old people dont have a problem with knives because they grew up having even more of a need for them, not like todays convenient world, lol...back when boys brought knives to school
cutlerylover Hey I used to bring knifes to school?? and iam not that OLD..60?? the 70's is when I was in high school and no one CARED if you had a buck 110 or pocket knife. How life has changed in MY short lifetime???
cutlerylover No doubt. Since I got my first buck knife, scharade brand, I always took it to school. Nobody cared. It was either 6th or 7th grade when I got the scharade, but I'd been carrying and old timer knife in my pocket since elementary school.
Maybe a little rude. I had something similar happen to me with a lady in line at a store. Asked me why I felt I needed a knife. I told her that I use it as a tool for the most part, I open boxes, letters, cut tape and rope. I also have it to protect myself and my wife If needed, god for bid I ever have to and I never want to have to. She said just carry a gun, no need for a scary knife. This was a 4 1/2 inch blade and a 5 inch handle fixed blade that I got for my birth day from my dad I told her and I really think it is none of your concern. I never understood the mentality behind her statement of "just carry a gun". I don't know, people can be funny sometimes.
A blade can be in a way more frightening than a gun, a gun carrying person might give off a more respectable impression than just someone who's carrying a blade, both beeing effective weapons. And everyone can acquire a blade. I think she was just speaking her mind.
I tend to use a gun for all sorts of things; such as opening mail or shooting an apple in to bite size proportions or removing a tag from my shirt. Much more versatile than a knife, and I definitely won't cut myself doing it
Your response was flawless, there's really nothing that could've been improved. It was succinct and not disrespectful in anyway. And I don't believe he was being rude, or meant to be, but I'm sure that him being a police officer, "putting people on the spot" is just kind of his way. You both sounded to be quite cordial about it all, and you put him on the spot right back! With an old lady as back up! Which obviously caused him to rethink his thought process, which is truly a beautiful thing. And I personally don't think he was being snarky in his goodbye, in the context I'm imagining with the picture you painted, I'm sure he was being totally sincere. You opened his eyes, that's huge victory. Really amazing job on your part Jeff, bravo.
Nice, classy story. Glad you recognize LE's responsibility to serve an protect and ask questions. In this day and age, you have to expect that. I do feel you may have sparked the deputy to be more open minded. Your dialog with the deputy was classy. Glad the deputy too was respectful to you as you left the store. Love the neck knife. Great vid!
Thanks for the story. I'm not surprised, to some degree, because in my experience cops are even less knowledgeable about knives and knife laws than they are about firearms.
the only person to say something to me about my neck knife or any knife is my grandmother lol she'll say " someone gone grab that knife and stab you with it" (imagine that in a southern accent) and she'll be talking about my multi-tool on my belt lol
You should make "CUTLERYLOVER" business cards and every time this kind of stuff happens hand them to the person questioning you...after the conversation.
As the story unfolded, I was surprised in a good way that he wished you a happy Easter and apologized for bothering you. That is a very positive result!
"they're not posing a threat, they're just classy as hell" I love that I'm gonna use that someday LMAO. Great video Jeff! that deputy was a bit rude to say that in the middle of a bunch ofpeople and not somewhere a little more private but you definitely made a strong point against him and hopefully opened his eyes a bit thst not everyone is a threat.
Hey jeff , your responds was right on. A knife is a tool. I have carried a knife for most of my life and people who don't will not understand exactly how useful it is until you carry it with you and find out how often you find yourself needing said tool. Great responce.
roflol I get that a lot, it give me a chance to educate people :D like you said, many people carry pocket knives and in my opinion it is more dangerous because of the concealment a person with a knife out in the open is less likely to be a threat than someone with it concealed. However people are afraid of anything not socially acceptable or unknown.
*Kid walks by cop with scissors in hand.* Cop: Hey you be carful alright. Kid :Ok. Guy walk by with a Victorinox classic in his hand. *Draws gun*. SIR YOU ARE UNDER ARREST! *STOP RESISTING!!! People these days.....
JoeDurobot most sheriff or cops will get offended but you questioning there authority even if its something as simple as asking for id and it will escalate the situation. he probably handled the situation as best as it could have been.
My logic says to me that a person with criminal intentions, would not openly display the weapon that they intended to use at a later time. It's good that the cop was cordial about it though.
Sounds to me like you said exactly the right things. And I agree with you about the folks who carry, anything in any way, with that "I dare you to challenge me" attitude. Thanks for sharing this.
Hahaha that line "if you see someone with a nice neck knife around their neck, they aren't posing a threat. They're just classy as hell" needs to be on a t shirt. Great story Jeff, thanks for sharing as always :)
He tried to embarrass you, and well, he was the one that was. props to you for sticking up for yourself and explaining without being a douche. keep up the cool videos jeff!
thats a great story jeff, cops constantly have their eyes open for potential threats (atleast they should), and he just happened to see your neck knife and was curious. i completely agree with your statement that all knife attacks happen with people that look for the nearest weapon. chances are that person will know nothing about knives. and ive had eyebrows raised and weird looks from a mini griptillian! i couldnt amagine the looks you must get from people with a neck knife. being a knife guy is definetly not one of the most exepted things in the world. and that lady that stood up for you was awesome!! maybe there is hope for this world lol
Interesting encounter Jeff. I carry a folder every day, but I want to try a neck knife for edc. Should I start with the SOG snarl, or the CRKT minimalist? Thanks for any info!
People really should give law enforcement more credit then this. Its not that they think everyone with a knife poses a threat, their job just consists entirely of dealing with people who do. So he spends all day responding to armed incidents (Knives, Guns, and otherwise) its completely normal for him to be uncomfortable with someone slinging a blade around their neck. That combined with the point brought up, where they are of course trained to spot that sort of thing, all results in this sort of response. They're just doing their job and protecting you!
I live in a country town in Australia. Our carry laws are much stricter than the states. Basically if you are carrying a knife you need to be able to show a lawful reason to do so. So when I visit the city I always take the knife out of my belt pouch and put it in my pocket. A while back I was in the city and a police officer stopped me and asked what I had hanging on my belt. I said " An empty knife pouch, because I know what you blokes are like", and continued walking. So in town my knife is in my pocket and quicker for me to access if I needed it. In the country it is openly carried on my belt, and the local cops don't give it a second look, because they are used to farmers and fishermen. The only time I use a neck-knife is when I am beach fishing, and can't afford to get it in the seawater.
MIght be a silly question, but I was just wondering what do you guys use your knives for? I was getting into knives (thanks Jeff) and ordered one (Sanrenmu 763 in blue aluminum scales), but I thought to myself "what are going to be the actual uses for it?". Please, share where you use your knives. I'm very interested.
Anterlt a common question, and the best answer I can give is to cut stuff, lol, everytime I need to cut something I use my knives, it cna be random stuff like a string off a shirt instead of pulling it and messing up the stitching to a common opening my mail properly without making a mess...just about anything and everything, I also use my knives for food prep I dont always use my kitchen knives...
well, pretty obvious you would not use it as a mobile phone or a microwave lol. But do you most commonly use it to open boxes, cut zip ties or something?
Anterlt Yeah, we cut stuff.. For me it's mostly opening boxes at work, but I also use it alot around the house for food prep and other daily things. Honestly you don't really realize how much you need the knife until you have been carrying it for a while and you happen to forget it one day. You will feel naked and there will be soooo much stuff that you need to cut with your knife. I hope you enjoy your Sanrenmu, the 710 is on my "to get" list ;)
Anterlt I try to keep mine sharp enough and with a good point, I use it to dig out splinters, mark wood for cutting (like a pencil only more exact), open boxes, cut strings or tags on cloths, etc. when you carry a knife you find more and more reasons to use it because it is available. You will wonder how you ever lived without one.
Hey Jeff I watch almost all your vids and have subscribed for years but rarely comment, honestly my opinion to your question is that the officer could not have done it in a better situation! Pulling you off to the side to discuss it would not have had the same impact. If it's guns or knives a big part of this culture is trying to regain ground on this culture and the fact that all those people saw and heard the discussion made it so much better, you not only got him thinking but also the people around you. Well done as always!! Now maybe that old lady next Christmas may forget about getting her grandson that Calvin Klein cologne and get him his first Swiss Army knife. Cheers from Ontario
I wear a CRKT Minimalist with a squeeze light ranger banded to the sheath. Use it daily. It's usually inside my shirt, so doesn't cause concern. I also carry a large folding defensive knife and pistol. All of these being inert objects unless I put them into action. With intent, a bar stool, rock, hands, or ink pen can be potentially lethal.
+jugglingembalmer Asking questions is not detaining. Anyone can ask. And you dont have to answer. I answered with all due respect Deputy, if I you are not detaining, I would like to go about my business. Have a good day.
Just a completely irrational side note, wouldn't it have been a blessing if a cop had simply asked the Tsarnaev brothers "Hey, what's up with that in that backpack/pressure cooker?" I've had a little security training that pertains to a collateral duty I hold here in the Navy. Law Enforcement is trained to do that. Sometimes they ask questions to see how you react, and observe a little body language. I am willing to bet that if any Law Enforcement had crossed paths and asked those terrorists a few questions, The tragedy in Boston would have had a much greater chance of being prevented.
"you see someone with a nice neck knife on there not a threat, there just classy has hell" laughed hella hard thanks jeff hopefully this video could be used has a tool to educate non-knife people
You're so right and I really love the way you are able to really show that no of us really want to harm anyone and we just want to be able to go about our buisness. Big fan keep it up :)
I am a cashier in a restaurant and i pretty much always ask people questions about what they are carrying when they are open carrying. I have found out that a lot of people enjoy talking about guns to others who also know about them. I just asked the other day what kind of glock that guy had, and today I asked if a guy had a shield on his belt and then i couldn't get him to stop talking. I like to engage people in conversation about what they are carrying. it starts a good conversation. better than " how are you doing"
Wow man, you seem to be a magnet for dorkasaurus cops. I am a retired cop and I think he was out of line. I despise the mentality that believes that because a citizen is armed, he somehow is the next mass murderer. Glad your fellow citizens spoke up for you!
I am 65 yrs. old and have carried a pocket knife since I was 12. It is a tool that I have used my whole life. I don't even think about it. I'm a farmer. carpenter, outdoorsman, cowboy. Believe me , over the years it has saved me and live stock from lots of damage . Got lucky the other day when I went into a S.S. office and a deputy asked if I was carrying a knife and I said sure and showed her,because it was small enough . Less then 3" blade.
As prepper, we prepare for worse case scenarios, not best case. As law enforcement agents, they have to do the same. Every time they leave their house, they never know if it will be their last day on the planet. Sure, in the best case scenario, they'll always come home, but there are tons of videos of cops doing routine traffic stops and ending up in a fire fight for their lives. I've only recently started watching your videos and I like your approach to most things and I don't think you did anything wrong here. Yes, you were totally within your rights. I get that there are a lot of bad cops out there, but there are also a lot of good men and women who risk their lives every day to keep us safe. I'm not in law enforcement, but I appreciate what they do for us, so personally, I try to cut them as much slack as possible. I try not to stir the pot, so to speak (and I'm not suggesting that you do). As far as I can tell, you're a very reasonable and respectful person. BTW, loved your vid about NutNFancy. Props for that one. Now if I were in his shoes, since no laws were being broken, I would have silently marked you as a potential threat and moved on. Better to not tip my hand unless required and also no need to let any potential troublemakers out there know that I'm a cop. That being said, I have no law enforcement training, just common sense.
I agree 100 percent jeff and without getting into detail of my background without showing credentials along, with "I am a deputy sheriff " shows alot about what his goal in that particular encounter was.
You responded civilly. The two occasions I was harassed (and make no mistake, it is harassment) for things that weren't illegal, I wasn't particularly civil in educating them.
Great video! I'm really surprised at how many people in law enforcement will approach people like that deputy did. Having a weapon doesn't make you a criminal.
Both my twin boys are cops , one a Deputy. They are trained in a 6 month academy and then a 5 month , 5 phase field training program with senior officers to identify a threat. You buying Easter eggs don’t fit the criteria. I spoke to my son and asked would he ever say anything? He said not unless you pulled it out lol. Great story and thanks for sharing. Waiting for a wet shave old school style video 👍
nice response Jeff. in general some people earn respect by giving respect through thoughtful interaction. and others simply command respect through directness and sometimes intimidation. those in law enforcement sometimes forget that they are here to serve the public.
As far as I know criminals don't flaunt the weapons they have. I have also heard from some knife fighting instructors that in a knife fight (with someone who knows what they're doing) "you don't see the knife, you FEEL the knife."
I remember when I was in elementary school we didn't have a playground but we had access to a park that the teachers would let us play in. Of course they probably couldn't do that nowadays. There was a nice old man who open carried a Colt revolver. We never saw him as a threat, I once asked him what he was carrying, he kindly smiled and told me he was carrying a .45 Long Colt. Nowadays if a open carry person is near a school, swat team's getting called.
completely agree mate, funny enough i did a presentation at university about knives and will be writing an essay on them. granted it Anglo-Saxon knives but when i asked the question 'what is a knife' everyone though weapon, not tool.
Jeff the great educator! I think you responded just great. He was throwing down his L.E.O card in an attempt to pretty much state that everything he thought was right and if you disagreed with him you were wrong. That was uncool. Even if you didn't manage to open up his eyes any to the double standards you probably were able to help others think who were witnessing this. Good job.
Hansl Lavenburg I do sometimes however if you don't exercise your rights they get taken away. If it was normal for people to have neck knives there wouldn't be anything said.
That be very true. It is a right though isn't it? You are allowed to carry a knife in that way? I just never read on it, always just kept my stuff out of sight because I never cared to carry a diary on blade lengths I'm allowed to have.
I don't know all the laws but here you can, most places you can if the knife is under 3in. if it is over that it can be considered a weapon in which case you would want to carry it in the open not concealed if you can open carry
Aha, thanks. So the general rule is under 3in concealed, anything over should be at least visible; It's just a weird scenario at the moment- I moved from a country/forested area, so its been awkward having all these new laws to follow. Its not too bad of a problem I mean, I haven't found a need yet for a fixed blade that a folder couldn't do.
This echoes my experience carrying a neck knife. People are overwhelmingly positive, and express interest/genuine curiosity about it. I've never had any reaction from LEO, though.
I've been carrying a Cold Steel Tokyo Spike as a neck knife for a few years now, and I've never had a single question about it. I haven't noticed anyone staring at it either.
Well said Sir! Very interesting. Are neck knives that rare that an officer of the law hasn't really had much to do with them? I'm very glad you had no trouble. Blessings from Birmingham UK 😉
I generally keep mine out of view so that it does not raise any questions or concerns because you never know how it could pan out. I know it's a potential question of legality if it is out of view, and in that way, it's a catch 22. If it's out of view and discovered, it could be a problem, but having it exposed invites questions which may escalate a problem with a guy like the deputy, whose job it really is to safeguard the public. If they see something "odd" that they can probe by a question, it could save a theft scenario in a store like they thats just about to close, and it's likely that the cash register is full and ripe for the picking for a bad guy with a weapon. So they see a guy with a knife in plain view and it's kind of smart of him to probe in that regard, because imagine if he saw it, said nothing and the store gets held up? He would be kicking himself for not saying something. So to me, I figure I will keep it hidden and if I was going to get frisked for whatever reason, I would let them know before hand and deal with it honestly like you did at that point. Cops today are becoming more and more robotic in how they deal with the public and they will more often than not arrest someone and let a judge sort it out than to think on their own, especially in light of recent events. I think in the future there will be more and more arrests and regular folk like us getting thrown in overnight with criminals in a holding cell with the idea being that it will become such a problem of overcrowding that the heat starts to relax on them. I could be wrong though, but my cousin is a cop in NYC and he sees that the new guys on the job follow the book to the T regardless if the situation is obviously not dangerous or concerning. Like, if you were speeding through traffic with your pregnant wife in labor trying to get to the hospital, they'll have you wait while they give you a ticket, etc.
That is by far the best comment I have ever heard about people who are knife people and people who are not and commit crime with a knife. It's absolutely true, I've just never heard anyone say it before
I wear my neck knife in the house as it's illegal in my country and the same thing happened to me when the police came to my door because of a disturbance outside. They pulled their pepper spray on me I explained what I do in my house is my own business and until I step past my threshold put that spray away and I got an apology and a giggle as they had never seen one before. Good on that old woman.
i was once carrying my kershaw in my back pocket and a security guard at the mall was behind me on an escalator. he asked what kind of knife i had on me, where i got it and how much it was. so far that has been my only experience with figures of authority asking about my knives, he was really nice about it though and said i got a good deal on it.
Honestly, as someone who has done security and practices martial arts I'd rather a potential threat be visible. Kinda hard to not notice someone grabbing a knife from a neck sheath......... in a catastrophic situation you'd get a second or two more time to react as opposed to something ie... knife or gun appearing out of nowhere or from a concealed location hidden in a subtle movement. It's not the danger immediately present, it's usually the one you don't see coming.
I don't think he was being rude, I think it was just in his nature. He probably said to himself, "Hey this guy is carrying a knife around his neck, maybe I should just check in with him just to make sure he's not mental." You have to admit on a day to day basis (like going to grocery stores) you don't see a lot of weapons out for public display. Also he apologized later for bothering you. Based on your story it sounds like you handled yourself perfectly. You were respectful to the officer, and illustrated that you had a strong working grasp of the laws for your area. Thanks for sharing the story.
Amen Jeff! And yes, I think it would have been classy for him to ask you in private instead of publicly pointing out the fact that you have a knife around your neck in front of lots of people and possibly starting a panic.... Not too smart on his behalf. And for the record, I used to work in law enforcement myself. But being a knife guy myself, I can always spot the fellow knife enthusiasts and cut them slack. ;-)
I actually think it was a rookie move to be more precise... albeit in a rude way and again because of him probably being a rookie "Deputy Sheriff". You didn't mention it, but it appears that he was not in his uniform, but even so what does it matter that he was a "Deputy Sheriff". If he had a question he should have just asked... I think his goodbye was genuine. Mostly because you satisfied his "curiosity", because that is what it sounded like. A veteran peace officer would have known exactly what that was hanging around your neck and shrugged it off. Thanks for the vid and the story cutlerylover... Tube On! (Subbed)
It was better than some. The important thing is that he gave you the chance to state your case. And you stated it well. Didn't hurt to have the little old lady chime in lol.
Something quite similar happened to me a few weeks ago. First off: Knife and weapon laws are a bit more strict where I come from, but most knifes, even if considered as weapons by the law, are legal to own and carry in any situation if you're over 18, Only weapons that are disguised as everyday items, like a dagger in the handle of an umbrella are forbidden. Anyway, most people think knifes like switchblades and balisongs are illegal. No idea why... So I was waiting at the train station, cutting an apple using my balisong. (Yes, I actually had a balisong in my EDC rotation). I was bored and without thinking, I started flipping it around while eating my apple. Notice: I was more than 15 meters away from any people, so even if I dropped it or something, I could never have hurt anyone. An young police officer still in training (could tell by his shoulder badge) saw me doing so and started yelling at me, because he was thinking I was using a "illegal, dangerous weapon that surely is used for crimes" [sic!] in public. I tried to explain him, that those knifes are totally legal and that I just use it for cutting food and packaging and stuff, but he even wanted to arrest me, until an older officer came and told him to shut the f*ck up and leave me alone. That older officer even complimented me on my "nice looking knife" (Bear Song IV in blue) and they just left. It really bugs me, that everyone thinks you must be a criminal just because you're using some kind of unusual knife.
You are lucky if balisongs really are legal where you are, almost everywhere ive been Balis are unacceptable regardless of other knife rules in the area
Great story. I hate the fact that in our day and age that carrying a knife seems so threatening to some people. Especially when there are so many people who carry guns. Knives are tools.
Can't stand when stuff like this happens honestly. But then again I also can't stand people that fight with the cops over questions like this. You handled it very well and stood your ground without acting like a jerk. I am dumbfounded when people find out that I CC my glock and then all of a sudden get scared. Some I've know for years and then once a gun is talked about I am some lethal criminal, who is 1. married for a decade, 2. owns a home, 3. has kids, 4. volunteering in the community monthly, 5. a well known hunter and outdoors enthusiast. The US general public honestly needs to grow a set of stones. I also carry a CRKT minimalist neck knife as well as various Spyderco, Kershaw and Benchmades, Emersons Etc..ALONG with the glock. Knives are for work, the gun is for protection, both are tools in my mind. It's really the perception that this country has that you must HATE the person or think they are doing something wrong if they are into guns, knives, crossbows, etc...unless they wear a badge, then its okay...
HwH one time I was walking through the grocery store shopping and this 40 year old woman bumped into me and at the time I was carrying my LeDuck neck knife but the clasp on it was broken so my neck knife fell out and on to the floor and she said and I quote “like that’s something you should be carrying in a store” so I asked her what was wrong with it and she said it’s a weapon so you shouldn’t have it so I just said ok and walked away
Great story and response to the officer and I agree he could have handled it better after you left the line. The lady behind you was the kicker and it must have been really hard not to laugh at her comment. I've been rocking a neck knife for years and get comments too. My 1st was the ESEE Izula, but right now I EDC the CRKT Minimalist Bowie. Its a bit less "threatening" than some of the others. I also sell neck knives at work and some of them are disguised as adornment necklaces where the blade is totally concealed. I always caution people who buy any of our self defense tools (tazers, batons, knives, etc...) that they need to train in the use of the tool before they carry it for EDC-SD.
Hey Jeff, so recently I got into knives and now I really want to own my first knife I can EDC (I have a balisong my neighbor gave me but the blade is to long to be legal to carry in public in Cali) and I wanted to ask if you could recommend a reliable blade and doesn't cost loads of money. As of now I'm leaning towards a Benchmade but after seeing some of your knife reviews I'm not so sure now what to get? So if you can respond thanks, and if you can't it's no problem
Well i can totally understand your reaction and it's kind of frustrating that the police officer would interrupt your day like that, but there's an old saying - If you spend all day thinking about hammers, everything looks like a nail. They spend all day looking for 'threats' and thinking about 'criminals', sometimes it leads them to think in the wrong direction :)
I think he probably wasn't trying to be rude and the farewell at the end was probably sincere. Just training kicking in. Same as a vet swerving to miss a plastic bag. Here in Canada if you hadn't given a specific answer he could have charged you for carrying a weapon if it was his fancy. I alway carry a pocket knife but I break down boxes and open packages at work and I do not want to use a chef knife to do so.
The interesting thing about use of these neck knives is that if a bad guy wants to confront you, he could recognize what you have, grab it and have your neck cut before you can react. Your protective reaction is inhibited because you see no weapon in his hand until he snatches from your neck. Carrying one of these neck knives is dangerous because you are furnishing the weapon for someone to kill you. And if you wanted to pull that neck knife, it will be done right smack in the field of vision of the guy confronting. A knife that you quietly slip from your pocket would be much better.
I'm a corrections Sgt and am transport qualified. I served prior to that in the U.S. Army M.P. Corps. His reason for concern is if you were to see some of the pictures they use in training when dealing with people with knives, they're pretty nasty. With the anti police movement that's going on right now its hard to say I blame him for his concern. That being said he went about expressing it in a way that I believe to be uncalled for. As truthfully as there was no law being broken he should have just kept his yap shut. At least that's my opinion.
***** I agree or at least waited until he was done checking out and do it without drawing attention to the situation. If I notice anything I feel is a concern I would watch the person if I felt they was a threat and start taking mental notes of clothes, height, looks, vehicle, etc all the things that would help law enforcement. People trying to be a hero usually end up getting themselves hurt or others. Just my 2 cents. And I respect any in law enforcement/correction workers, it is an underpaid and dangerous job.
***** I'm going to have to disagree to a point. Most police aren't out there being the jack boot thug that people see. Sure you see it on the news but most aren't that way. How many of those people that get ticketed for "BS" talked their own way into that ticket? I've been pulled over and some of the reasons have been sketchy at best but I haven't received a ticket yet. For the most part I've seen and dealt with (as a MP and working in corrections) is that if you didn't break the law in the first place you'll usually get left alone. And I can call it an anti police movement when a cop clear across the country gets shot because some punk ass kid got himself shot (yes I said the kid got himself shot) and people are all sad about it. You're entitled to your opinion however. Just I'd ask you put yourself in an officers shoes before you judge them. This isn't at all where I had intended my initial post to go into an argument about police brutality ext. ext. just about a poor judgment call and perhaps an insight as to why.
Double thumbs up! I bought the CRKT Minimalist because of your rave review and I love it to death, I carry it every day. However, it is usually tucked under my flannel and above my undershirt out of sight. Maybe I will start carrying it out side my shirt and see what kind of reactions I get. Awesome video Jeff.
That's why it's good to carry it under a t-shirt. Or if you have a jacket, carry it between the jacket and a t-shirt. Always have one layer covering the knife. That's how I would do it.
How about "do you suspect me of breaking any laws or committing a crime? Then mind your own F###### business" Criminals who want to use a knife as a weapon wouldn't be walking around with it outside of their shirt where everyone can see it. If you had a pair of needle nose pliers around your neck he wouldn't have said a thing. It's a tool YOU TOOL!! He could have had that entire conversation with you and left out the "I'm a deputy sheriff" the fact that he said I'm a deputy sheriff he is showing you his level of authority. That kind of s*** pisses me off so bad.
New American Woodsman So just because the big man told you that he is a deputy sheriff you believed him and answered his questions without asking to see his credentials?
People that get approached by cops take it too seriously. He's a cop whose duty is to keep society safe. Sounds like the cop that came up to you was calm and kind so there's no need to make a big deal out of it. In the same way you say "just because I wear a knife I'm not a criminal" just because " a cop asks about your knife doesn't mean he's going to abuse his power or interfere with your rights"
Ana Merla If that is the case he should of never volunteered the information about being in law enforcement, he was using his position to justify why he had the right to know. Which he didn't have any right to know. The officer would of handled it better by simply watching him and making sure he didn't do anything then catching him after he was done being checked out and ask him about it.
Coming from a family of LEO and living in Georgia, we usually get the opposite, lol! The LEO will usually ask what you are carrying because they enjoy firearms too lol...that was a incredibly rude thing the Sheriff did especially, in the way it was presented.
jsanders031 lol when I see a cop standing in line armed Ill usualy just mutter off the gun model to them as a question, lol like hey...glock 23? they almost always smile and say yes I was wrong once about a 1911 and got the wrong brand, I was ashamed, lol
cutlerylover I had an officer pull me over for no reason in West Va and he had me take my Neck knife off and throw it in the floor board on the other side lol by the time we were done talking he had me get it so he could see it :D then I asked him why he pulled me over and he gave me some lame excuse bout thinking my tags were expired and then their computers being down and couldn't run them.
+cutlerylover That's funny. I had a similar experience in a airport in Yuma, AZ. A border patrol agent was checking people on the ramp and when he got to me I said, "Not that you guys don't deserve the best, but H&K? Why didn't they just buy you two Glocks." He said his off duty carry and home protection gun are both glocks, and we talked about guns for the next 10 minuets, then he moved on. He didn't ask me a single question.
+jsanders031 Sorry to say that far too many cops act this way....smh
+jsanders031 NC here, same thing!! :) They wanna know what you're carrying, why you like it, why you don't, what loads you shoot, etc, etc. They'll stop and talk shop and not bat an eye. I love the south!
Good story Jeff, I think you handled yourself very well. You should have gave that older woman a high five. lol. A few years back after coming out of a store I was sitting in my vehicle opening some packaging with my knife and as I was doing so I noticed an older woman making her way over towards me looking like she wanted to talk to me, so put my window down and she said "I noticed you have a knife, could you open this for me?" Mind you the knife I was using could be perceived as scary to some people, obviously not to that older woman. :) I thought it was pretty cool that she felt comfortable enough to ask me such a question.
Old people are surprisingly open to sharp things!
Actually, I 'm not very surprised that some older people aren't scared of knives since 30-40 years ago carrying a pocket knife was much more socially accepted than today. In more recent years, a lot of younger people became knife-phobics because of the fear-spreading media and of course the silly knife laws
Tat2Dragons awesome yeah old people dont have a problem with knives because they grew up having even more of a need for them, not like todays convenient world, lol...back when boys brought knives to school
cutlerylover Hey I used to bring knifes to school?? and iam not that OLD..60?? the 70's is when I was in high school and no one CARED if you had a buck 110 or pocket knife. How life has changed in MY short lifetime???
cutlerylover
No doubt. Since I got my first buck knife, scharade brand, I always took it to school. Nobody cared. It was either 6th or 7th grade when I got the scharade, but I'd been carrying and old timer knife in my pocket since elementary school.
You handled that well, Jeff.
I second that!
Maybe a little rude. I had something similar happen to me with a lady in line at a store. Asked me why I felt I needed a knife. I told her that I use it as a tool for the most part, I open boxes, letters, cut tape and rope. I also have it to protect myself and my wife If needed, god for bid I ever have to and I never want to have to. She said just carry a gun, no need for a scary knife. This was a 4 1/2 inch blade and a 5 inch handle fixed blade that I got for my birth day from my dad I told her and I really think it is none of your concern. I never understood the mentality behind her statement of "just carry a gun". I don't know, people can be funny sometimes.
Jason Homan I love opening packages and mail with my gun. In a safe direction of course...
Brad Bradington I was thinking the same thing.
A blade can be in a way more frightening than a gun, a gun carrying person might give off a more respectable impression than just someone who's carrying a blade, both beeing effective weapons. And everyone can acquire a blade. I think she was just speaking her mind.
I tend to use a gun for all sorts of things; such as opening mail or shooting an apple in to bite size proportions or removing a tag from my shirt. Much more versatile than a knife, and I definitely won't cut myself doing it
How many salamis can you slice with a .380?
they're not posing a threat, they're classy as hell. thumbs up
Wow, seeing that tie, you could probably conceal it behind a tie and be even classier. Open mind, brain engaged.
+XGC Scrappy we need tie knifes
UnchartedGamer
Second that! It'll help in the wind too with that weight!
Old Lady: "he's got a point" *BA DUM TSSS*
Your response was flawless, there's really nothing that could've been improved. It was succinct and not disrespectful in anyway.
And I don't believe he was being rude, or meant to be, but I'm sure that him being a police officer, "putting people on the spot" is just kind of his way.
You both sounded to be quite cordial about it all, and you put him on the spot right back! With an old lady as back up! Which obviously caused him to rethink his thought process, which is truly a beautiful thing.
And I personally don't think he was being snarky in his goodbye, in the context I'm imagining with the picture you painted, I'm sure he was being totally sincere. You opened his eyes, that's huge victory.
Really amazing job on your part Jeff, bravo.
Nice, classy story. Glad you recognize LE's responsibility to serve an protect and ask questions. In this day and age, you have to expect that. I do feel you may have sparked the deputy to be more open minded. Your dialog with the deputy was classy. Glad the deputy too was respectful to you as you left the store. Love the neck knife. Great vid!
Thanks for the story. I'm not surprised, to some degree, because in my experience cops are even less knowledgeable about knives and knife laws than they are about firearms.
the only person to say something to me about my neck knife or any knife is my grandmother lol she'll say " someone gone grab that knife and stab you with it" (imagine that in a southern accent) and she'll be talking about my multi-tool on my belt lol
Lol
she sounds like a dingleberry
Your grandma 'has a point there too ....' I wear my neck knife under my shirt when I am in a shop ...
Yep, under the shirt is how i wear mine, when i do. Still easily accessible and less attention and hassle.
"They're not doing anything wrong, they're just classy as hell." 😂😂
You should make "CUTLERYLOVER" business cards and every time this kind of stuff happens hand them to the person questioning you...after the conversation.
He has them and it actually saved him from having his car searched.
Atomic Bean Is that in a video?
Lol
As the story unfolded, I was surprised in a good way that he wished you a happy Easter and apologized for bothering you. That is a very positive result!
"they're not posing a threat, they're just classy as hell" I love that I'm gonna use that someday LMAO. Great video Jeff! that deputy was a bit rude to say that in the middle of a bunch ofpeople and not somewhere a little more private but you definitely made a strong point against him and hopefully opened his eyes a bit thst not everyone is a threat.
I loved it when you said: if you see someone with a nice neck knife on there not posing a threat they're just classy as hell
Love the "if you're carrying a keck knife you're classy as hell" remark lol.
Classy as hell!!! HAHA Lovin it! I bet the guy wasn't even a sherrif just a busy body.
Hey jeff , your responds was right on. A knife is a tool. I have carried a knife for most of my life and people who don't will not understand exactly how useful it is until you carry it with you and find out how often you find yourself needing said tool. Great responce.
roflol I get that a lot, it give me a chance to educate people :D like you said, many people carry pocket knives and in my opinion it is more dangerous because of the concealment a person with a knife out in the open is less likely to be a threat than someone with it concealed. However people are afraid of anything not socially acceptable or unknown.
Concerned about tiny neck knife. In a store filled with giant kitchen knives. Also your pocket knife is larger than the neck one.
eli Heakins lol I always find that funny, are they going to take all the knives off the shelf of the stores
*Kid walks by cop with scissors in hand.* Cop: Hey you be carful alright. Kid :Ok. Guy walk by with a Victorinox classic in his hand. *Draws gun*. SIR YOU ARE UNDER ARREST! *STOP RESISTING!!! People these days.....
How do you know this guy was actually a deputy?
You should have asked for his ID.
He wasn't trying to arrest him or something. I would just have considered this as smalltalk with a curious guy...
JoeDurobot I have doubts about his credentials but it wouldn't have changed anything if he was lying or not
I know Jeff, he would just have looked even more silly if you asked to see his badge/ID and it turned out he wasn't a LEO.
JoeDurobot most sheriff or cops will get offended but you questioning there authority even if its something as simple as asking for id and it will escalate the situation. he probably handled the situation as best as it could have been.
holidaybananas Cop doesnt shoot innocent civilian, THIS time.
He should be more worried of the shit he can't see.
The sad thing to me is how many cops do not know the law on seemingly anything!!
My logic says to me that a person with criminal intentions, would not openly display the weapon that they intended to use at a later time.
It's good that the cop was cordial about it though.
Best storytime ever.... The "he's got a point" made it fantastic!
Sounds to me like you said exactly the right things. And I agree with you about the folks who carry, anything in any way, with that "I dare you to challenge me" attitude. Thanks for sharing this.
Hahaha that line "if you see someone with a nice neck knife around their neck, they aren't posing a threat. They're just classy as hell" needs to be on a t shirt. Great story Jeff, thanks for sharing as always :)
Awesome Video Jeff. Great Interaction With the Deputy Sheriff & Customers/Cashier. Keep up the great work. Nick.
He tried to embarrass you, and well, he was the one that was.
props to you for sticking up for yourself and explaining without being a douche.
keep up the cool videos jeff!
thats a great story jeff, cops constantly have their eyes open for potential threats (atleast they should), and he just happened to see your neck knife and was curious. i completely agree with your statement that all knife attacks happen with people that look for the nearest weapon. chances are that person will know nothing about knives. and ive had eyebrows raised and weird looks from a mini griptillian! i couldnt amagine the looks you must get from people with a neck knife. being a knife guy is definetly not one of the most exepted things in the world. and that lady that stood up for you was awesome!! maybe there is hope for this world lol
Interesting encounter Jeff. I carry a folder every day, but I want to try a neck knife for edc. Should I start with the SOG snarl, or the CRKT minimalist? Thanks for any info!
People really should give law enforcement more credit then this. Its not that they think everyone with a knife poses a threat, their job just consists entirely of dealing with people who do. So he spends all day responding to armed incidents (Knives, Guns, and otherwise) its completely normal for him to be uncomfortable with someone slinging a blade around their neck. That combined with the point brought up, where they are of course trained to spot that sort of thing, all results in this sort of response. They're just doing their job and protecting you!
I live in a country town in Australia. Our carry laws are much stricter than the states. Basically if you are carrying a knife you need to be able to show a lawful reason to do so. So when I visit the city I always take the knife out of my belt pouch and put it in my pocket. A while back I was in the city and a police officer stopped me and asked what I had hanging on my belt. I said " An empty knife pouch, because I know what you blokes are like", and continued walking. So in town my knife is in my pocket and quicker for me to access if I needed it. In the country it is openly carried on my belt, and the local cops don't give it a second look, because they are used to farmers and fishermen. The only time I use a neck-knife is when I am beach fishing, and can't afford to get it in the seawater.
His last point about the neck knife made me sub! Props to you.
MIght be a silly question, but I was just wondering what do you guys use your knives for? I was getting into knives (thanks Jeff) and ordered one (Sanrenmu 763 in blue aluminum scales), but I thought to myself "what are going to be the actual uses for it?". Please, share where you use your knives. I'm very interested.
Anterlt a common question, and the best answer I can give is to cut stuff, lol, everytime I need to cut something I use my knives, it cna be random stuff like a string off a shirt instead of pulling it and messing up the stitching to a common opening my mail properly without making a mess...just about anything and everything, I also use my knives for food prep I dont always use my kitchen knives...
well, pretty obvious you would not use it as a mobile phone or a microwave lol. But do you most commonly use it to open boxes, cut zip ties or something?
Anterlt Yeah, we cut stuff.. For me it's mostly opening boxes at work, but I also use it alot around the house for food prep and other daily things. Honestly you don't really realize how much you need the knife until you have been carrying it for a while and you happen to forget it one day. You will feel naked and there will be soooo much stuff that you need to cut with your knife. I hope you enjoy your Sanrenmu, the 710 is on my "to get" list ;)
Anterlt I try to keep mine sharp enough and with a good point, I use it to dig out splinters, mark wood for cutting (like a pencil only more exact), open boxes, cut strings or tags on cloths, etc. when you carry a knife you find more and more reasons to use it because it is available. You will wonder how you ever lived without one.
Anterlt Do you eat fruit??? Or meat? Open box's?
Sometimes in a pinch I use mine as a hammer to.. :D
Hey Jeff I watch almost all your vids and have subscribed for years but rarely comment, honestly my opinion to your question is that the officer could not have done it in a better situation! Pulling you off to the side to discuss it would not have had the same impact. If it's guns or knives a big part of this culture is trying to regain ground on this culture and the fact that all those people saw and heard the discussion made it so much better, you not only got him thinking but also the people around you. Well done as always!! Now maybe that old lady next Christmas may forget about getting her grandson that Calvin Klein cologne and get him his first Swiss Army knife. Cheers from Ontario
I wear a CRKT Minimalist with a squeeze light ranger banded to the sheath. Use it daily. It's usually inside my shirt, so doesn't cause concern. I also carry a large folding defensive knife and pistol. All of these being inert objects unless I put them into action. With intent, a bar stool, rock, hands, or ink pen can be potentially lethal.
This is one of the many reasons why people don't like law enforcement. If it isn't against the law, it's none of their damned business.
I love police officers but I HATE gun and knife laws extremely
+jugglingembalmer Asking questions is not detaining. Anyone can ask. And you dont have to answer. I answered with all due respect Deputy, if I you are not detaining, I would like to go about my business. Have a good day.
I’m allowed to ask anything I want you can say fuck off but having a badge doesn’t forbid me form talking
Just a completely irrational side note, wouldn't it have been a blessing if a cop had simply asked the Tsarnaev brothers "Hey, what's up with that in that backpack/pressure cooker?" I've had a little security training that pertains to a collateral duty I hold here in the Navy. Law Enforcement is trained to do that. Sometimes they ask questions to see how you react, and observe a little body language. I am willing to bet that if any Law Enforcement had crossed paths and asked those terrorists a few questions, The tragedy in Boston would have had a much greater chance of being prevented.
"you see someone with a nice neck knife on there not a threat, there just classy has hell" laughed hella hard thanks jeff hopefully this video could be used has a tool to educate non-knife people
that old lady was awesome. great vid definitely made my day thanks for sharing
You're so right and I really love the way you are able to really show that no of us really want to harm anyone and we just want to be able to go about our buisness. Big fan keep it up :)
"don’t like ponytails on a bald man" lmfao!!!
I am a cashier in a restaurant and i pretty much always ask people questions about what they are carrying when they are open carrying. I have found out that a lot of people enjoy talking about guns to others who also know about them. I just asked the other day what kind of glock that guy had, and today I asked if a guy had a shield on his belt and then i couldn't get him to stop talking. I like to engage people in conversation about what they are carrying. it starts a good conversation. better than " how are you doing"
"They're not posing a threat, they are just classy as hell"
Wow man, you seem to be a magnet for dorkasaurus cops. I am a retired cop and I think he was out of line. I despise the mentality that believes that because a citizen is armed, he somehow is the next mass murderer. Glad your fellow citizens spoke up for you!
I am 65 yrs. old and have carried a pocket knife since I was 12. It is a tool that I have used my whole life. I don't even think about it. I'm a farmer. carpenter, outdoorsman, cowboy. Believe me , over the years it has saved me and live stock from lots of damage . Got lucky the other day when I went into a S.S. office and a deputy asked if I was carrying a knife and I said sure and showed her,because it was small enough . Less then 3" blade.
As prepper, we prepare for worse case scenarios, not best case. As law enforcement agents, they have to do the same. Every time they leave their house, they never know if it will be their last day on the planet. Sure, in the best case scenario, they'll always come home, but there are tons of videos of cops doing routine traffic stops and ending up in a fire fight for their lives.
I've only recently started watching your videos and I like your approach to most things and I don't think you did anything wrong here. Yes, you were totally within your rights. I get that there are a lot of bad cops out there, but there are also a lot of good men and women who risk their lives every day to keep us safe. I'm not in law enforcement, but I appreciate what they do for us, so personally, I try to cut them as much slack as possible. I try not to stir the pot, so to speak (and I'm not suggesting that you do). As far as I can tell, you're a very reasonable and respectful person. BTW, loved your vid about NutNFancy. Props for that one.
Now if I were in his shoes, since no laws were being broken, I would have silently marked you as a potential threat and moved on. Better to not tip my hand unless required and also no need to let any potential troublemakers out there know that I'm a cop. That being said, I have no law enforcement training, just common sense.
I like the way u ended that with the "classy as hell" part that was cool true and funny and u know it
That's why I wear mine under my shirt. Not that easy to get at, but not that difficult with a little practice.
I agree 100 percent jeff and without getting into detail of my background without showing credentials along, with "I am a deputy sheriff " shows alot about what his goal in that particular encounter was.
I enjoyed the comebacks! LOL! Sounds like you handled it as good as you could.
You're too nice. Talking to an officer can only bring you trouble. I would have smiled and said have a nice day officer.
You responded civilly. The two occasions I was harassed (and make no mistake, it is harassment) for things that weren't illegal, I wasn't particularly civil in educating them.
Great video! I'm really surprised at how many people in law enforcement will approach people like that deputy did. Having a weapon doesn't make you a criminal.
Both my twin boys are cops , one a Deputy. They are trained in a 6 month academy and then a 5 month , 5 phase field training program with senior officers to identify a threat. You buying Easter eggs don’t fit the criteria. I spoke to my son and asked would he ever say anything? He said not unless you pulled it out lol. Great story and thanks for sharing. Waiting for a wet shave old school style video 👍
nice response Jeff. in general some people earn respect by giving respect through thoughtful interaction. and others simply command respect through directness and sometimes intimidation. those in law enforcement sometimes forget that they are here to serve the public.
As far as I know criminals don't flaunt the weapons they have. I have also heard from some knife fighting instructors that in a knife fight (with someone who knows what they're doing) "you don't see the knife, you FEEL the knife."
I remember when I was in elementary school we didn't have a playground but we had access to a park that the teachers would let us play in. Of course they probably couldn't do that nowadays. There was a nice old man who open carried a Colt revolver. We never saw him as a threat, I once asked him what he was carrying, he kindly smiled and told me he was carrying a .45 Long Colt. Nowadays if a open carry person is near a school, swat team's getting called.
completely agree mate, funny enough i did a presentation at university about knives and will be writing an essay on them.
granted it Anglo-Saxon knives but when i asked the question 'what is a knife' everyone though weapon, not tool.
Hilarious , I actually lol'd when you said the old lady part :D
Jeff the great educator! I think you responded just great. He was throwing down his L.E.O card in an attempt to pretty much state that everything he thought was right and if you disagreed with him you were wrong. That was uncool. Even if you didn't manage to open up his eyes any to the double standards you probably were able to help others think who were witnessing this. Good job.
My answer is usually "I can only fit so many in my pockets..."
Man such a bother, I'd just tuck it in my shirt. That lady deserves a reward.
Hansl Lavenburg I do sometimes however if you don't exercise your rights they get taken away. If it was normal for people to have neck knives there wouldn't be anything said.
That be very true. It is a right though isn't it? You are allowed to carry a knife in that way? I just never read on it, always just kept my stuff out of sight because I never cared to carry a diary on blade lengths I'm allowed to have.
I don't know all the laws but here you can, most places you can if the knife is under 3in. if it is over that it can be considered a weapon in which case you would want to carry it in the open not concealed if you can open carry
Aha, thanks. So the general rule is under 3in concealed, anything over should be at least visible; It's just a weird scenario at the moment- I moved from a country/forested area, so its been awkward having all these new laws to follow. Its not too bad of a problem I mean, I haven't found a need yet for a fixed blade that a folder couldn't do.
This echoes my experience carrying a neck knife. People are overwhelmingly positive, and express interest/genuine curiosity about it. I've never had any reaction from LEO, though.
I've been carrying a Cold Steel Tokyo Spike as a neck knife for a few years now, and I've never had a single question about it. I haven't noticed anyone staring at it either.
you got 1200 and 99 problems a week and not a solution one.One!!!!!You got me laughing all those times tho
I have always thought about the reaction from carrying a neck knife open; very nice discussion on your observations.
Well said Sir! Very interesting. Are neck knives that rare that an officer of the law hasn't really had much to do with them? I'm very glad you had no trouble. Blessings from Birmingham UK 😉
I generally keep mine out of view so that it does not raise any questions or concerns because you never know how it could pan out. I know it's a potential question of legality if it is out of view, and in that way, it's a catch 22. If it's out of view and discovered, it could be a problem, but having it exposed invites questions which may escalate a problem with a guy like the deputy, whose job it really is to safeguard the public. If they see something "odd" that they can probe by a question, it could save a theft scenario in a store like they thats just about to close, and it's likely that the cash register is full and ripe for the picking for a bad guy with a weapon. So they see a guy with a knife in plain view and it's kind of smart of him to probe in that regard, because imagine if he saw it, said nothing and the store gets held up? He would be kicking himself for not saying something. So to me, I figure I will keep it hidden and if I was going to get frisked for whatever reason, I would let them know before hand and deal with it honestly like you did at that point. Cops today are becoming more and more robotic in how they deal with the public and they will more often than not arrest someone and let a judge sort it out than to think on their own, especially in light of recent events. I think in the future there will be more and more arrests and regular folk like us getting thrown in overnight with criminals in a holding cell with the idea being that it will become such a problem of overcrowding that the heat starts to relax on them. I could be wrong though, but my cousin is a cop in NYC and he sees that the new guys on the job follow the book to the T regardless if the situation is obviously not dangerous or concerning. Like, if you were speeding through traffic with your pregnant wife in labor trying to get to the hospital, they'll have you wait while they give you a ticket, etc.
That is by far the best comment I have ever heard about people who are knife people and people who are not and commit crime with a knife. It's absolutely true, I've just never heard anyone say it before
I wear my neck knife in the house as it's illegal in my country and the same thing happened to me when the police came to my door because of a disturbance outside. They pulled their pepper spray on me I explained what I do in my house is my own business and until I step past my threshold put that spray away and I got an apology and a giggle as they had never seen one before. Good on that old woman.
Great story, Jeff! "He's got a point!" That's awesome!
i was once carrying my kershaw in my back pocket and a security guard at the mall was behind me on an escalator. he asked what kind of knife i had on me, where i got it and how much it was. so far that has been my only experience with figures of authority asking about my knives, he was really nice about it though and said i got a good deal on it.
Honestly, as someone who has done security and practices martial arts I'd rather a potential threat be visible. Kinda hard to not notice someone grabbing a knife from a neck sheath......... in a catastrophic situation you'd get a second or two more time to react as opposed to something ie... knife or gun appearing out of nowhere or from a concealed location hidden in a subtle movement. It's not the danger immediately present, it's usually the one you don't see coming.
I don't think he was being rude, I think it was just in his nature. He probably said to himself, "Hey this guy is carrying a knife around his neck, maybe I should just check in with him just to make sure he's not mental." You have to admit on a day to day basis (like going to grocery stores) you don't see a lot of weapons out for public display. Also he apologized later for bothering you.
Based on your story it sounds like you handled yourself perfectly. You were respectful to the officer, and illustrated that you had a strong working grasp of the laws for your area.
Thanks for sharing the story.
Amen Jeff! And yes, I think it would have been classy for him to ask you in private instead of publicly pointing out the fact that you have a knife around your neck in front of lots of people and possibly starting a panic.... Not too smart on his behalf. And for the record, I used to work in law enforcement myself. But being a knife guy myself, I can always spot the fellow knife enthusiasts and cut them slack. ;-)
I actually think it was a rookie move to be more precise... albeit in a rude way and again because of him probably being a rookie "Deputy Sheriff". You didn't mention it, but it appears that he was not in his uniform, but even so what does it matter that he was a "Deputy Sheriff". If he had a question he should have just asked... I think his goodbye was genuine. Mostly because you satisfied his "curiosity", because that is what it sounded like. A veteran peace officer would have known exactly what that was hanging around your neck and shrugged it off. Thanks for the vid and the story cutlerylover... Tube On! (Subbed)
It was better than some. The important thing is that he gave you the chance to state your case. And you stated it well.
Didn't hurt to have the little old lady chime in lol.
Something quite similar happened to me a few weeks ago.
First off: Knife and weapon laws are a bit more strict where I come from, but most knifes, even if considered as weapons by the law, are legal to own and carry in any situation if you're over 18, Only weapons that are disguised as everyday items, like a dagger in the handle of an umbrella are forbidden.
Anyway, most people think knifes like switchblades and balisongs are illegal. No idea why...
So I was waiting at the train station, cutting an apple using my balisong. (Yes, I actually had a balisong in my EDC rotation). I was bored and without thinking, I started flipping it around while eating my apple. Notice: I was more than 15 meters away from any people, so even if I dropped it or something, I could never have hurt anyone.
An young police officer still in training (could tell by his shoulder badge) saw me doing so and started yelling at me, because he was thinking I was using a "illegal, dangerous weapon that surely is used for crimes" [sic!] in public. I tried to explain him, that those knifes are totally legal and that I just use it for cutting food and packaging and stuff, but he even wanted to arrest me, until an older officer came and told him to shut the f*ck up and leave me alone.
That older officer even complimented me on my "nice looking knife" (Bear Song IV in blue) and they just left.
It really bugs me, that everyone thinks you must be a criminal just because you're using some kind of unusual knife.
You are lucky if balisongs really are legal where you are, almost everywhere ive been Balis are unacceptable regardless of other knife rules in the area
yeah, one of the two countries in middle europe where balisongs are legal without limitations (length and stuff) :)
Great story. I hate the fact that in our day and age that carrying a knife seems so threatening to some people. Especially when there are so many people who carry guns. Knives are tools.
WAAAAYYYY outta line. You handled it well, courteous but firm, as in " I'm not gonna tolerate to much more of your BS."
I just got into neck knives because of your cold steel super edge review.. (I absolutely love it!) And I'm just getting ready for the comments
a knife is more dangerous if u cant see it
WTF are you talking about?
good thing I don't use my knife blindfolded.
im talking about useing a knife as a weapon
what i think i ment was that its retarded that u cant carry a knife cuz if u want to no1 will know untill its to late
Tjorre B, that's pathetic friend.
Sounds like he should be a cop in NY.
Can't stand when stuff like this happens honestly. But then again I also can't stand people that fight with the cops over questions like this. You handled it very well and stood your ground without acting like a jerk. I am dumbfounded when people find out that I CC my glock and then all of a sudden get scared. Some I've know for years and then once a gun is talked about I am some lethal criminal, who is 1. married for a decade, 2. owns a home, 3. has kids, 4. volunteering in the community monthly, 5. a well known hunter and outdoors enthusiast. The US general public honestly needs to grow a set of stones. I also carry a CRKT minimalist neck knife as well as various Spyderco, Kershaw and Benchmades, Emersons Etc..ALONG with the glock. Knives are for work, the gun is for protection, both are tools in my mind. It's really the perception that this country has that you must HATE the person or think they are doing something wrong if they are into guns, knives, crossbows, etc...unless they wear a badge, then its okay...
HwH one time I was walking through the grocery store shopping and this 40 year old woman bumped into me and at the time I was carrying my LeDuck neck knife but the clasp on it was broken so my neck knife fell out and on to the floor and she said and I quote “like that’s something you should be carrying in a store” so I asked her what was wrong with it and she said it’s a weapon so you shouldn’t have it so I just said ok and walked away
Great story and response to the officer and I agree he could have handled it better after you left the line. The lady behind you was the kicker and it must have been really hard not to laugh at her comment. I've been rocking a neck knife for years and get comments too. My 1st was the ESEE Izula, but right now I EDC the CRKT Minimalist Bowie. Its a bit less "threatening" than some of the others. I also sell neck knives at work and some of them are disguised as adornment necklaces where the blade is totally concealed. I always caution people who buy any of our self defense tools (tazers, batons, knives, etc...) that they need to train in the use of the tool before they carry it for EDC-SD.
Hey Jeff, so recently I got into knives and now I really want to own my first knife I can EDC (I have a balisong my neighbor gave me but the blade is to long to be legal to carry in public in Cali) and I wanted to ask if you could recommend a reliable blade and doesn't cost loads of money. As of now I'm leaning towards a Benchmade but after seeing some of your knife reviews I'm not so sure now what to get? So if you can respond thanks, and if you can't it's no problem
Well i can totally understand your reaction and it's kind of frustrating that the police officer would interrupt your day like that, but there's an old saying - If you spend all day thinking about hammers, everything looks like a nail. They spend all day looking for 'threats' and thinking about 'criminals', sometimes it leads them to think in the wrong direction :)
I think he probably wasn't trying to be rude and the farewell at the end was probably sincere. Just training kicking in. Same as a vet swerving to miss a plastic bag.
Here in Canada if you hadn't given a specific answer he could have charged you for carrying a weapon if it was his fancy. I alway carry a pocket knife but I break down boxes and open packages at work and I do not want to use a chef knife to do so.
The interesting thing about use of these neck knives is that if a bad guy wants to confront you, he could recognize what you have, grab it and have your neck cut before you can react. Your protective reaction is inhibited because you see no weapon in his hand until he snatches from your neck. Carrying one of these neck knives is dangerous because you are furnishing the weapon for someone to kill you. And if you wanted to pull that neck knife, it will be done right smack in the field of vision of the guy confronting. A knife that you quietly slip from your pocket would be much better.
Thank you for sharing your story Jeff.
I'm a corrections Sgt and am transport qualified. I served prior to that in the U.S. Army M.P. Corps. His reason for concern is if you were to see some of the pictures they use in training when dealing with people with knives, they're pretty nasty. With the anti police movement that's going on right now its hard to say I blame him for his concern. That being said he went about expressing it in a way that I believe to be uncalled for. As truthfully as there was no law being broken he should have just kept his yap shut. At least that's my opinion.
***** I agree or at least waited until he was done checking out and do it without drawing attention to the situation. If I notice anything I feel is a concern I would watch the person if I felt they was a threat and start taking mental notes of clothes, height, looks, vehicle, etc all the things that would help law enforcement. People trying to be a hero usually end up getting themselves hurt or others. Just my 2 cents. And I respect any in law enforcement/correction workers, it is an underpaid and dangerous job.
*****
I'm going to have to disagree to a point. Most police aren't out there being the jack boot thug that people see. Sure you see it on the news but most aren't that way. How many of those people that get ticketed for "BS" talked their own way into that ticket? I've been pulled over and some of the reasons have been sketchy at best but I haven't received a ticket yet. For the most part I've seen and dealt with (as a MP and working in corrections) is that if you didn't break the law in the first place you'll usually get left alone. And I can call it an anti police movement when a cop clear across the country gets shot because some punk ass kid got himself shot (yes I said the kid got himself shot) and people are all sad about it. You're entitled to your opinion however. Just I'd ask you put yourself in an officers shoes before you judge them. This isn't at all where I had intended my initial post to go into an argument about police brutality ext. ext. just about a poor judgment call and perhaps an insight as to why.
"They're just classy as hell. -Jeff
Double thumbs up! I bought the CRKT Minimalist because of your rave review and I love it to death, I carry it every day. However, it is usually tucked under my flannel and above my undershirt out of sight. Maybe I will start carrying it out side my shirt and see what kind of reactions I get. Awesome video Jeff.
wish the Netherlands were a bit more easy on weapon laws.
That's why it's good to carry it under a t-shirt. Or if you have a jacket, carry it between the jacket and a t-shirt. Always have one layer covering the knife. That's how I would do it.
How about "do you suspect me of breaking any laws or committing a crime? Then mind your own F###### business" Criminals who want to use a knife as a weapon wouldn't be walking around with it outside of their shirt where everyone can see it.
If you had a pair of needle nose pliers around your neck he wouldn't have said a thing.
It's a tool YOU TOOL!!
He could have had that entire conversation with you and left out the "I'm a deputy sheriff" the fact that he said I'm a deputy sheriff he is showing you his level of authority. That kind of s*** pisses me off so bad.
***** Exactly right.
New American Woodsman that is considered rape in 26 country's
New American Woodsman So just because the big man told you that he is a deputy sheriff you believed him and answered his questions without asking to see his credentials?
People that get approached by cops take it too seriously. He's a cop whose duty is to keep society safe. Sounds like the cop that came up to you was calm and kind so there's no need to make a big deal out of it. In the same way you say "just because I wear a knife I'm not a criminal" just because " a cop asks about your knife doesn't mean he's going to abuse his power or interfere with your rights"
Ana Merla Wrong, the only duty a cop has is to uphold the constitution and protect his or her family.
Ana Merla If that is the case he should of never volunteered the information about being in law enforcement, he was using his position to justify why he had the right to know. Which he didn't have any right to know. The officer would of handled it better by simply watching him and making sure he didn't do anything then catching him after he was done being checked out and ask him about it.
Patrick Roehrman Or better yet, watch and make sure he didn't do anything...period. No need at all for the questioning. Stupid cops.
Sheath carry is legal where I live, but if you wear a jacket the knife on your hip becomes "concealed" and therefore illegal.