Response to Dave Canterbury's Neck Knife Argument
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- Опубликовано: 24 мар 2024
- In this video I respond to Dave Canterbury's reasons for not liking neck knives.
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Different carry for different people. Personal choice ! Why stress over it .
Not stressed. He made a lousy argument - his reasons for not using a neck knife don't make any sense.
@@outdoorsonthecheap Dave made this argument over 6 years ago. Different strokes for different folks. You are kinda late for the party! Get over it!
OK... 2+2=5. Now by your reasoning, no one can criticize my math if it's 2031. Awesome!
@@outdoorsonthecheap🤫
You can drown on either side of the boat!
😂👍
I would say you make good points but you are incorrect about knife sizes I prefer, however I do not mind neck knives around Camp or for certain tasks but not really for walking in the woods. I don’t argue with Mors opinion of what works for him no you it just not for me honestly and I have tried it. But opinions obviously vary
Sorry If I was wrong about your preferred knife size - It's really hard to pin you down on that one since I've seen you with such a range of sizes. I recall your old beloved $3 butcher knife - definitely not neck knife material - and as I said, there is a predominance of knives that are a bit large for wearing on the neck among your PKS knives.
@@outdoorsonthecheap I actually prefer the belt knife for major utility and a pocket folder or SAK for most general tasks which reduces the need for a 3rd blade around the neck anyway in most cases unless in camp skinning game etc. but everyone should do what works for them as there is no right or wrong really
Never said there was a right or wrong answer - just spoke to your rationale.
I too carry an SAK (trailmaster) as a backup & tool kit - though I ground down the serrated edge to just be a regular edge, and filed down the keychain clip to keep it from going through my pocket. I gotta ask man - what Island were you on for the Nova Scotia episode of Dual Survival? We have lots of islands so its really hard to tell.
@@DavidCanterbury
SAK knives are a must. Carried them when we were kids 40 plus yrs ago.
Got into other knives and just forgot about them. It's been decades but just bought one again 2 months ago.
Everybody should have one
I couldn’t agree more. I wear a mora garberg on my belt and a mora Eldris around my neck.
The more ya know the less you carry - Mors Kochanski
Nooooooo.
@@davidheath2427 care to elaborate?
I have been running a belt knife lately but go back and forth. I like to run my Mora as a neck knife especially in winter when I'm layered up. The belt clip holds the Mora too close to my body to get it back in the sheath safely while wrestling with clothing. I also run my cord around my neck just a bit longer and use the belt clip on the sheath to clip the knife between buttons. This also helps carry the weight of the knife on my coat rather that just my neck. I have found my knife that has a dangling sheath helps a lot with the clothing issue and allows my belt knife to be accessed one handed on draw and sheathe. It is however a little bit larger knife. You make valid points here, thanks for sharing them.
I have used both but like the belt knife. I do have my reasion for not liking the neck knife but it’s my history of being a para.
Different preferences are the spice of life. Everybody has their own style. Just because one person doesn't prefer something doesn't mean it's wrong. Really no need to defend your opinion. There's plenty of people using neck knives out there. 👍
I've watched Dave Canterbury since he first started on youtube back sometime in late '07 or early '08 when his channel was called "Wilderness Outfitters Archery" I was within his first 500 subs. And I can tell you he use to carry a Mora Classic #2 around his neck all of the time. He may have changed his mind on neck knives now, but back then he recommended it.
This was settled nearly a century ago. The predecessor of Field and Stream had a contest for the best outdoor knife design. Professional trappers, guides, hunters, fishermen, and outdoorsmen in general participated. A winner was chosen. It is called the Canadian >BELT< knife, not the Canadian NECK knife. It was produced by Russel for years, and is now available from Grohmann. A cheaper, lighter knockoff is sold by Cold Steel. Both come with a sheath suitable for carrying on a belt.
Yes I know the knife you are talking about. I've never been a fan of the design and think they are overpriced, and prized more for their beauty than functionality. I prefer the "puukko" design , such as that used for the Mora companion, arguably for the same ecology, and arguably, determined ideal through trial and error many more than 100 years ago.
I've enjoyed much of your content, but I'm not wearing my knife as a pendant. The buttoned shirt carry is fine if that is all you're going to wear as a top coat. It's not zipper or poncho friendly, and if you watch one of Mors vids on fire making he gives a good demonstration (without ever saying) how awkward and even dangerous it could be as he waves his knife near his face. I have to pose this observation about professionals who frequently require knives but never see them wearing one around their necks - fishermen, chefs, meat processors, EMTs, police, soldiers, cowboys, ranchers, electricians, carpenters, landscapers. I'm sure I've missed a few. Beyond the dangers you find unrealistic, I'd find it irritating to have this thing swinging around in my field of view while performing chores that I have to lean over for. All that said, thanks for the debate.
Mors got the idea from spending time with first nations people. They, arguably, are the survival & bushcraft professionals :) Good point about the zipper or poncho. I suppose there may be some sort of workaround, but I guess I lit button up top coats so I've never dealt with that.
@@outdoorsonthecheap I thought Native American methods of carry would come up. If Mors got the idea from the first nations, he sure took his sweet time implementing it. He has a video of his preferred carries over his years and a neck knife was one of his latest choices. One in particular was a gifted knife by a custom maker. I'm not new to this debate though I won't claim to be an expert. In vids of people making historically accurate indigenous sheaths, most knives were worn in sashes(also see Matt Graham), free swinging loops from belts and even on wrists. Imagine an indigenous of the plains that made his living on horseback have a neck knife slapping him in the face with every other stride. I can direct you to a vid of an eastern woodlands specialist of indigenous decent wearing a knife at his side. I've seen some point to a painting of a NAI wearing a neck knife as part of his ceremonial dress. The painting was made 100 years after that man died. One of the most ridiculous arguments I saw was a man in buckskins defending the tiny neck knife he wore. He claimed it was the preferred carry because "they didn't have pockets". What is a sheath? He also assumed (while wearing buckskins) that some of the finest leather crafters on the planet were incapable of devising a belt. I'm not arguing NAI's never neck carried, but from the brief research I've done, it was the exception instead of the rule. There's also no argument here about NAI's being the undisputed survival pros.
Just a thought, if you tie your lanyard with a double fisherman's knot, then it would be very easy to adjust the length of the lanyard.......long or short.
@@bighill5680 This is an idea. I have done this with a small compass I carry whenever i'm out but not for around my neck. I use it to easily get on and off my wrist easily but allow me to keep it securely on my left wrist for easy frequent barring checks. I would be leery of doing this around my neck though for risk of affixation regardless of how minute the possibility may be. I like many use 550 or 750 cord which can be pretty strong for the size.
@@Steakfrie a lot of good points and observations here. Well put.
Glad you got that load off your chest! Hope you feel better now!
Yes! Thank you!
I’m pretty sure the whole point of the video is that he prefers to carry his load on his chest.
😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂@@Mael01369
Regarding safety, there’s such a thing as a breakaway neck lanyard that gives way if the tension gets too high
You know I've heard many people that don't like neck knives talk about the dreaded choking themselves.
I was Airborne in the military. I have many jumps out of planes made by the lowest bidder.
We always had Dogtags on. Never ever seen one choke someone.
These people that complain usually have necklaces on. Bet they never had their necklaces twist and choke them until they break. Yet they wear them.
I just find that whole idea ridiculous.
From my readings I've found Scandinavian people used neck knives because of cold weather gear an Also the risk of falling through ice. It's easier to get to your knife around your neck. Then try and find it around your waist.
This doesn't make a difference to me. I like the usefulness having it around my neck.
An its Not likely I'll fall through ice in my state. It's hardly snowed in a few years. Lol. Just a data point.
I guess my point is if your scared of something very unlikely I'm not sure the outside is the place for you.
No matter what you do Murphys law will always exist!
(Anything that can go wrong will go wrong, usually at the worst possible time)
Ask any soldier.
I think even Dave suggested that - but IMO it's a good way to lose a knife. The lanyard must have 0% risk of failure. The risk of strangulation is simply unfounded.
Never heard of a choking risk, but my dog tag chain broke all the time. I pulled the inner stand out of Paracord and fed the chain through (lots of soldiers did to quiet them) but I fed the clasp inside and melted the Paracord sheath to it...
And if it hangs up in your neck area and unholsters you might suffer hard. Neck knives are weird
To each his own! I EDC many items, including a fixed blade! I personally don't prefer a knife around my neck either! I carry on my hip or groin Carry in front.🤷
👍 There is no “right” or “wrong” answer, but I agree with all your points. I like wearing my fixed blade knives around my neck and all the ones I really use in the woods resemble your knife.
In 64+/- years in the woods I have never been in a “tactical” situation. Only about 15-16 carrying the knife around my neck.
I believe “survival” is an over used and misused term.
I also saw Dave’s video on neck knives and came to the same conclusion you did.
I enjoy wearing a neck knife.. I have 3 different ones. By the way, how is your BPS knife holding up? I've been thinking about getting one. I really like the leather sheath and the similarities to a mora..
I love the BPS. Basically a better Mora.
Bps is great far superior to mora. The sheaths are trash though. It's too fine of leather and the knife can poke through easily. The same with beavercraft. Which is just as good as bps. But the same fine thin leather used for the sheaths
@@outdoorsonthecheap thank you
I met Mors and he was a sessional Instructor and I had the greatest respect for his knowledge. He admitted that he learned most of his skills from the Native people from the Boreal forest before he instructed for the Canadian military (Rangers), so he had real time in the real bush...not in the warm environment of the eastern brush. Just saying what I know and have observed
Right on man
Mors is in Northern forests, and there are more relevant sources for skills in desert or Southern settings. Mors can't get to his belt knife under his 6 layers of parkas, sweaters, and clothes. I usually just reach into the back pocket of my shorts.
You''ll find wearing a carbon steel under the shirt it turns black.
I literally showed the blade. It looks like all my other carbon steel blades that I've been wearing for years. None of them are black because I look after them. The knife would only turn black if you never used it and did not maintain it at all.
A potato will help acheve that great color faster.
@@thomasbryson2757 Think reality, not appearance.
New subscriber, I've only watched a few videos but, so far, great stuff.
Thanks and welcome
I’d love to see a sit down pow wow between you two just going back and forth for an hour.
That woulD be cool for sure! I don't think think Dave has much time for that :) He did comment on this video somewhere among the other 300+ comments
What knive are you carrying? What brand?
BPS Knives BS3. They were sold from Ukraine before the war, for about $30 shipping incl - full tang carbon steel. Identical to Mora Companion but full tang.
Luv my necker .....use way more than my belt knife or pocket folder....I have 2 neckers my Mora Eldris and my Essee Izula2 with barrow connector breakaway 550 7 strand paracord and have never had any issues with it.....take care from Waterville NS
I am a retired military and you are absolutly right about the mind set
A great, common-sense discussion. Thank you.
Thanks man
I have the Skookum Bush Tool and tried wearing it as a neck knife and found it too bulky, but if the neck lanyard was shortened and I wore a heavy shirt or coat I think it would be more comfortable. I've worn a mushroom knife and a Mora Eldris as a neck knife. BTW What is the knife around your neck and do you have a video of you modifications? Yep, you beat that to death. Dave Canterbury has revised some of his earlier videos to reflect his learning.
The skookum is $200 so despite my love for Mors - I just can't shell out that kinda money. Knife is a BPS Knives BS3. They were sold from Ukraine before the war for about $30 shipping incl - full tang carbon steel. Identical to Mora Companion but full tang.
I completely understand. I ordered the Skookum Bust Tool in 2008 when I had some money.
WTH why didnt I know about your other channel? lol Anyhoo I found it and subbed, time to binge lol
Ha ha thanks - hope you like it :)
I always carried a buck 110 on my belt , but I always liked the Mora companion for a neck knife which I plan to buy one of each soon , I ss and1 carbon , 1 for processing wood and utility the other for processing game , I'd like to have a sharpener for precision sharpening , I'd like to see Mora make 1 especially for the Scand I bevel for quik touch ups , I've spent so much time sharpening the old 110 . But I like your reasoning, different strokes for different folks.
I wear a Ned foss minimalist, tanto blade every day around my neck and a pocket knife they both come in handy every day
You have a very valid point here mate. I almost lost twice a belt knife lately in the jungle as i, exactly as you described hung up on thick brush. After watching your video i truly consider to switch to a neck knife. Thanks for sharing your thoughts on this and i just left you a subscription. Cheers from Bali, Indonesia
Thanks man!
I like Dave, but if Dave says something, and Mors says something, go with Mors.👍👍
Great video....👍
I was never a fan of neck knives but ill try it tighter like you show
Neckers are super cool for restroom breaks and campground showers when you don’t have instant access to your pack, belt or otherwise the normal conditions.
There's no showers or restrooms where I go.
@@outdoorsonthecheap I’m coming from the perspectives of a thru hiker. Camp to camp to camp to town to camp to town etc. First thing we want to do is drop our packs at every stop 🧻
Why are you taking a knife into a restroom or shower?
@@outdoorsonthecheap sense of security
I appreciated your video and how well-reasoned your point of view is. For years, whenever I'm out and about where a fixed-blade knife would be handy, it's been a neck-knife. Before that, my knife was attached to my LBE, accessible to either hand. I've never lost a knife with either carry, nor has my travel been impeded because it became entangled in the undergrowth or another obstacle. Although I own a variety of belt knives, I prefer carrying a neck knife when I'm in the woods. I always know where the knife is and can get to it no matter how buddled up I might be. For someone unsure whether it's for them, try both carries and choose the one that best fits your purpose, needs, and personality. Either way, enjoy every opportunity to get out into the outdoors.
Ranger survival school referenced the same ratio.
do you mean blade width : handle width?
I like (as you mentioned) inverted baldric carry as an option that works very well, which I learned from Mike at Bushcraft Northwest.
My issue with a neck knife is it's just another thing hung around your neck and or on your chest. When I'm out in the woods I usually carry a set of binoculars and a compass...both of which are already strung across my neck and chest.
Yes I guess if binoculars are a necessity then a neck knife makes no sense. The woods are mostly too thick for binoculars here.
When falling through thin ice, you open up your arms so you stay neck & shoulders out, above the ice surface: You can still get to your knife… & use it to "pick" & grab onto the slippery ice surface, to slide yourself out of the icy trap (sliding onto your belly like an otter)... We carry 2 knives usually: Under 9" for neck knife... (tucked in the shirt) ~ 11" go on the belt (also docked nose down into the pocket)... The old Buck 102 makes for a good neck knife too light & tough yet slim enough for a "bird & trout"… (The 11" Marttinni Leuko actually works beautifully as a neck knife too: being light & long, fully plunged into a sheath, it nests on the breast bond without swinging back & forth: big enough & light enough for "all purpose" duty. I use these 2 when hiking & canoeing on Vancouver Island in Spring. The Grohmann Canadian "belt" knife #1 & Parachutist #4, often replace the Buck 102...
The great this is its all about personal preference but always good to hear insights from all sides. Thanks for sharing ( PS I generally carry a smaller neck knife and an average Palm sized knife on the belt lol )
Hi I wear a msk 2.5 edc around my neck I use it every day
Opinel no. 3 with hole drilled into it. Ferro rod 1" strung into the red wing boot shoe lace. Nice and small
Like the video. Short advice: If you fasten your neck lanyard with a fisherman's or some similar knot, you can easily adjust íts length any time you put it on or off.
I got my first Mora (Companion HD SS) to try neck carry, but around camp/set around stuffs. And I'm going to find 1/4" strapping to affix velcro to the ends. ~ erm, summer is normally a Tshirt tho.
Swimming through the thickets angle I get. But it's being body inverted that may strangle someone.
ie; having to climb through a felled tree across the trail between sloughs. (yes a couple of times on my land) Also down a steep slope strewn with dry leaves where near as ape from vines clinging to each tree not to slide on down the slope. (yes I have, even out gathering mushrooms) ..or mud like on a tv show (-:
~ Kinda same reasons above I use a hip belt. ...go stand on a log and I'll grab your belted knife, flip it to your ribs and we'll see if you lose balance. ~ Loop Worn belt, the knife sheath will have a dangle-er so can flip straight up.
I shall see how it goes. Between the breasts is the length I'd choose. But it's bit close to the eyes.
Perfect form every time is pictured in mind but, from fatigue to beers to person flitting around close it may not always be the case. I'll prolly still two hand it horizontally.
Happy April you 'n yourn ~
Again, tucked in the shirt - not a problem. This strangling thing is driving me nuts. I'd be dead a 100 times over if this was even a fraction of the risk that everyone seems to think it is.
Personal choice. Where we carry a knife is a personal choice, as is the knife we carry. I personally choose to not place a sharp knife point next to such vital body parts. Maybe I’m missing something handy and useful. And, I’m trying to miss my own knife puncturing my neck or gut.
We each make our choices. What’s the next subject of conversation?
Courtesy of Half Vast Flying
I agree, same reason I point a weapon down , My knives are dangerously sharp.
My friend died this year from carrying a knife on his neck
@@ernestdurante4653 Sorry to hear that , too dangerous. I'd rather be safe than look cool myself.
I agree that some people seem to be wired to see worst case scenarios in common places, and then alter their daily approach to facilitate surviving the most unlikely of scenarios.
I guess there is a time and place for that sort of thinking.
However, it also seems like that type of thinking/prioritizing sometimes creates unnecessary burdens, like carrying a 1/4 thick knife and a go bag on a day hike.
Most big bushcraft channels are now advertisement channels with a little of bushcraft. My fav channel is Ranger Survival by far.
Ironically, Ranger survival has an affiliate page for... wait for it... self reliance outfitters - Dave Canterbury's gear store :)
I think the neck knife versus belt knife argument is all about personal preference.
The phrase "personal preference" shows up so many times in these comments. I must do a video on that. Is neck vs belt really and coke vs pepsi thing?
@@outdoorsonthecheap How is it not? Belt versus neck is 💯 preference
I personally prefer a belt knife, but have, on occasion, wore my knife on a neck lanyard, I'm comfortable in either configuration. The only point you brought up that I personally think is about as likely as getting hung up by a neck knife, is the "sticking the knife in a tree or on the ground and leaving it there" . In 45 years of outdoor activities, I've never put down and walked away from any gear, let alone my primary survival tool. Every once in a while, when puttering around the campsite I may have put my knife down a few paces from me and have to go get it, but when out in the scruff, I'm constantly checking myself and never walk away from an area without doing the "pat down and look around". The only time I "lost" a piece of gear was on a deer hunt, when I accidentally rolled my 4-wheeler, and the old GPS unit I had in a an outer breast pocket (no lanyard) flew out of that pocket and in my disorientation didn't do my typical "pat down" before righting the ATV and moving on. It should also be noted that both my belt knife and multitool, and flashlight stayed secure where they were; on my belt. That little "incident" cost me more than a new GPS, it also cost me a nice buck. The tumble knocked the scope on my .303 out a fair bit. It was one of the few times I missed my mark and a hard lesson learned to be sure. Always verify your gear is in proper working order. ;-)
I find that belt knives are not very comfortable, although i do have a Grohman #4. I would have preferred their #1, but my hand is too large for that handle.
I like my neck knife, but wear mine on a longer lanyard than you suggest. This is more for comfort than anything else. Good video.
I agree loren
I'm on the west coast on Vancouver island and just found your channel! Great chat! New subscriber out of me! Stay awesome, safe and blessed! Cheers, Kimmers and Jerbs 👍🏻🇨🇦🔥🔪🔥🇨🇦👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻
Awesome! Thank you!
You are a Canadian treasure.love your no till gardens..now bushcraft..wow
Thanks 👍
Thank for sharing your experience. I believe a neck knife is useful, I’m on my second one. The first one was lost while I was in the woods so they, like anything else, can disappear. That said, I believe our tools should reflect what works for us in the places we go. Thus I carry a neck knife and a belt knife but depending on time of year and location my belt knife might be as big as a machete.
I agree, having it around the neck is not a real concern of mine.
I like cody lundins neck knife configuration
I've used a neck knife for years in Fire/EMS as well as outdoors. I've never had a problem with them.
Agreed
Lampwicking with a few breakaway stitches
If you're worried about auto erotic strangulation. Nii is w you have another fire resource.
Dave once waxed eloquent about the bahco vs ‘ the boxfull of broken silky saws.’ Now he promotes silky saws at his school. Using a knife with a ferro rod will degrade your knife faster than sweat. Look up the temperature generated.
Chris K
Hate things around my neck. Annoying. Dangler for belt, as a tight fixed belt knife catches on stuff.
I wear a neck knife at times and have never had any issue with it getting sweaty since I wear layers and remove layers if starting to overheat and sweat. I wear the knife hanging under my over shirt and over my inner layer. My neck knife, when worn, is a smaller knife.
Even if you were bare-chested it would be fine.
I often wanted to try that system. I think Dave is anything that's anti-Cody Lundin. Cody always wore one, so, naturally, Dave hates it. But i wouldn't mind trying it, and it would definitely be with a smaller knife.
I agree with David Canterbury on many things but not knives. He said he wants it carbon steel, but I prefer stainless steel. He preferred it to be tight against the body, but I prefer a dangle or drop down for large blades and neck carry for light weight knives like a mora classic. Things like my Garberg and SRK I prefer in a cross draw sheath.
I still generally carry a sheath knife in a cross draw fashion on my pistol belt ,may be not quite as convient as a neck carry but people who do spend generations in the boreal and polar regions and do use an often larger blade ,do in fact also prefer a cross draw style ,and for me ill use a quick adjust nknots on a neck knife occasionally but just dont care for them generally especially when in the mountains which is where i do most all my outdoor activites ,again as i said befor if you fall especially at night having a blade up near my chest just isnt good imo ,now if your in relatively flat terraine provably fine ,also Id guess Mors used the neck carry for convience in drawing his knife for his teaching classes but who knows if it works nothing wrong with it .
He based the approach on what he saw indigenous people doing - I assume because he considered them to be the experts.
I have tried neck carry and don't care for it. I know what Dave is talking about as there is a long belt across the Mid West that has multiflora rose, rasberry and blackberry thickets under trees. A bear to go through with a knife attached behind you. In the winter I have heavy pullovers wool shirts or sweaters with less room. I understand where Mors got the idea but that idea was changed in the nursing field as not safe. Look at nurses today or ambulance crews. They have a lanyard attached to their waist and their scissors in their scrubs shirt pocket by their waist or in the case of emergency crews in a leg cargo pocket. I don't loose knives until I get home. In the woods or the desert it is cultivated reflex to sheath knife immediately. I saw his video and he did not do the best presentation which probably after a class and people asking why he doesn't use one. You have found it works well, many do, others do not. Neither is wrong just a preference. I don't agree with Dave but that doesn't make either one of us more right. I freak out people when I say I don't like a scandi grind for my woods knife. It's good for wood projects but I do few of those. I clean fish and as well as food prep. If I need to carve I use a pocket knife that I don't leave the house without for more than 50 years. I have scandi knives, heck my grandpa was born in Sweden. He used kitchen knives or a pocket knife.
I carry both. A Mora around my neck, and a K-Bar on my belt(plus a folder in my pocket, and a Leatherman on my belt, opposite the K-Bar).
Since I generally carry a 7" or bigger knife it's baldric carry for me. I do carry a smaller companion knife but it either folds or rides in a pocket sheath. I don't want anything on my belt or around my neck, but that's my personal preference.
I neck carry a small bird and trout style knife or a small nessmuck style knife in a tight retention kydex sheath handle down. Quick and easy to deploy for basic needs and chores. I belt carry a joker ember in a sheath with a dangler. Small knife with quick deployment from my chest and large knife for heavy labor from my hip. Best of both.
Whatever works best for each person in their given circumstance. Everything is debatable or can make for interesting contemplation 🙂
I do use a belt knife. If they are any larger than a multi tool or a small fixed blade they become uncomfortable when sitting or driving, I am constantly moving my knife around. On the negative even a light 2” skinning knife is n absolute annoying thing for me to be around my neck. I like to use scarves and zipper neck shirts/coats so I found the knife around my neck to be a pain. But again I was military for a long time so my belt knife is on the outside of my tunic or whatever I am wearing on even now a kind of webbing belt thingy. And yes I often take of the belt where you do not really need to do that with a neck knife. There are pro and cons to both systems but rust would no be my primary negative to a neck knife. I would say the belt knife would be more likely to rust in my life and experience and I never had that problem. Think about it. Most people have no issues crossing a river or stream if it’s slow moving and safe. We do not mind going up to our crotch and that is the hight of a belt knife. Few people like to go in water up to there neck unless actually swimming
In my opinion I would say for most hikers/hunters and even survival people the light knife around the neck would be the best option. Just not for me. lol. Opinions may vary
I plan on wearing my new SAK Classic SD in a pouch around my neck at work, so as not to get it damaged, like my other SAK Tinker, that was carried in my pocket for over two decades and now damaged beyond repair.
I keep a very similar pocket knife around town, don't don't consider that adequate for taking along in the bush. Sheesh mine is practically mint - what on earth do you have in your pockets.
I am always leaning over machinery and other hip high things. I need to buy a belt knife pouch for my new SAK Huntsman that I just ordered.@@outdoorsonthecheap
Yes I'm talking about being in the woods. EDC is another conversation.
neck knife for kayaking without deep pockets/belt
Bravo. I have a tendency to doubt “experts” who are trying to sell gear from their store. I may try a technique that they present but I will go with what works based upon my experience and the environment I am in. I agree totally with the comments about the military mindset (I spent 33 years as an infantry officer in the Canadian Forces) but I don’t use thinking designed for tactical combat in civilian situations. I grew up in a rural environment and have spent a lot of time in the woods hunting, trapping, fishing, canoeing and backpacking year round in the Maritimes (born in Nova Scotia but spent most of my civy life in New Brunswick) so the gear and techniques I use are based on that rather than combat. The bears here are not affiliated with ISIS so I don’t need to use a military outlook. It seems a lot of “YT experts” seem to think like CANEX commandos that figure it makes them look cool and tough using a bayonet rather than a Mora and think there are enemy troops behind every tree in the woods rather than a squirrel making that noise at night. Long winded comment to say it is refreshing to see a video teaching real world practical techniques for being in the woods. I am a now a new subscriber.
"CANEX commando" I haven't hear that - but it's a good one :) Thanks man - this channel was created for guys like you ...and long-winded comments are welcome :)
Guys, just do what works for you.
You can get universal pocket clips now for your pocket. Js
Yes - but I don't think they are as robust and reliable as a lanyard.
In my own opinion, Dave has become more of a salesman and a business rather than a survivalist. Always copying other products and sometimes adding minor tweaks.
To each their own, though
High prices. Verry high shipping.
My 3 favorite neck knives are made by James Andall.
Mors wore one of his knives 😊
He's just saying reasons why he doesn't like it I've been carrying a nickname for a very long time and the point you made her very valid you keep a shorter lanyard I use an adjustable one longer for when I'm at Camp shorter from when I'm strolling around so it's not flopping all over the place and if you're worried about it getting hung up and choking you coming down a hill put a barrel snap on it or something or some slip Adjusters I like it on my neck because of how to grab see that's where I keep my Mora eldris or my Otzi very lite weight because I have massive neck issues.
I use both a belt and a neck knife. The knives are for 2 different purposes. I have a large camp knife that can do smaller tasks but my neck knife is a better choice. The neck knife can do some larger tasks but my belt knife is a better choice. The weight for the neck knife is not noticeable enough to chose to leave it alone. I am also one that also keeps a folding knife in my pocket just because I know it will always be there and razor sharp. I was brought up with a pocket knife I feel strange without it lol. Neither choice is wrong it is literally up to the individual person’s preference.
I also bring along a pocket knife always
Something is always better than nothing
Not when it comes to STDs
🤣🤣🤣🤣
Preferences are relative.
I'm with Dave 100% on "not" having a knife around your neck while not admonishing anybody else for that being their preferences. I made my living for decades with a tool belt around my waist so it's instinctually my nature to grab my main tool from my side. I love that my sheath knife is safe & secure where I can reach it without even having to look at it, not to mention that it's never in my way when I bend down and can't get caught up on anything in the field. I use dangler sheaths exclusively and will put my knife on the loop "behind" the side loop so it's more on my back quarter than on my side (like my hammer).
I agree with Dave on having something dangling around my neck, swinging down, having to be tucked away (good luck in the summer with that), just being something else to have to think about. I tried it. I just didn't like it.
But, like I said, to each their own. Whatever works for them, great. I'm just speaking as someone who's had tools on their person for decades like I said.
One more note, Dave's focus is mostly on survival knives (something a neck knife isn't) so that's comparing apples to oranges and as far as one getting lost in the woods goes, at least in America, of the 40,000,000 campers that hit the wilderness every year, every 2 hours of every day of every week of every month of every year get lost in the woods (12 people per day on avg), so it's a "real" thing.
Sure, you were a tradesman and you like stuff around your waist - can't argue with that.
I speak to arguments, not people right to a preference.
It doesn't flop around if you tuck it in your shirt, and it doesn't get caught up on things - as I explained in the video.
My neck knife is a full tang knife with a 4" blade. The notion that a knife that has a 4" blade can't be a survival knife is a sales pitch man. It's an upsell - to get people to buy bogger knives that they can only carry at the waist.
I don't think its any more safe and secure at the waist than around the neck.
Ands it's no problem in the summer.
@@outdoorsonthecheap What do you do in the summer when you're wearing a t-shirt?
Is it tucked behind the t-shirt rubbing against your raw skin while you're engaged in activities?
How do you wear it in the winter "if" you have a heavier coat to go over your shirt? Is it readily available and convenient to pull out from behind your coat or anorak or do you wear it on the outside of a heavy coat?
As far as a knife size for survival goes, I literally blasted through the Pathfinder Basic Survival course with a sub-4" BHK Bushcrafter for my knife. However, again, me being a tool guy, I completely agree that a knife bigger than 4" is the more intelligent choice. I had to work unnecessarily harder than I needed to and all because of -1". The reasoning behind the 5" preference in a blade size is that a 4" sapling is considered the standard for many survival tasks (accessing dry wood if necessary, shelter construction, implement building, etc...).
Besides, carrying an extra inch of knife blade isn't going to cause any full grown man some kind of hemorrhaging or severe loss of consciousness or burn 27% more calories. It's nothing. That's like someone leaving behind Bic lighter because they already have a ferro rod & magnifying lens & bow drill set. It's unnecessarily making things harder on themselves.
A truly competent woodsman wouldn't even need a knife in the woods. The woods are strewn with natural cutting implements already (bone, wood, stone, etc...).
There is no upsell to an extra inch of knife. It's not $100 more than a 4" knife.
One's belt is the safest place one could carry their knife. Around their neck, it CAN get caught up in brush depending on the activity they're involved in (especially being hunkered down). I have my knife rigged in a way so that it's impossible to come out of it's sheath (along with my ferro rod) even if I tumbled down a mountain from some freak accident. If I had a knife tucked in a button-downed shirt, there's a much better chance of it becoming dislodged and hitting me in the face on my way down or worst, it dragging on debris. That's not an opinion, but just physics.
For me to lose my knife, I'd have to lose my pants and if I'm without pants in the woods, I have MUCH bigger problems than not having a knife and something's really gone seriously wrong at that point.
Also, me being a woodsman (at least a wannabe woodsman), I don't even need a knife to survival in the woods. I've spent many a sub-freezing night sleeping on the ground without a fire because I dressed right for the task (which was hunting).
Opinions and preferences are fine and I never argue them. I only argue objective facts based solely on physics.
I've LITERALLY been in survival situations (plural) and when they come (and they do come if one is out & about long enough), for me personally and objectively speaking for anybody else on the planet, MORE advantage is ALWAYS better than less advantage. Nobody has ever been worse off because they had more of the gear that they needed at the precise time that they needed it.
Because as we all know, the more you know, the less you leave behind (not the less you carry).
The overwhelming majority (at least according to my SAR [Search And Rescue] training) of recoveries in the wilderness are of victims that didn't have enough stuff on them.
The mentality that 1" is going to make any significant difference in the woods (in either direction) is based solely on speculation.
The man who can't carve a spoon or tweak a fishing hook out of bone with a 5" knife is theory, not reality. I've carved a spoon with a 10" Junglas and I've batoned 8" logs with my 4" knives. I'd rather have more knife than need than more need than knife.
Also, I'm pretty sure that carving spoons isn't a survival priority.
I've NEVER gone on a job site with "less" than what I could possibly need because it's always better to have something that you might need and not use (like a First Aid Kit or a Personal Locator Beacon or a back-up knife for example) than to have the need arise and you not have it and have to resort to starting to improvise tools in the field that will not perform as good as something that was specifically engineered to perform that task...
...but at this point, I'm just beating the proverbial dead horse, ain't I?
But then again, I'm no survivalist. I don't need to test myself or do more with less.
I'm just a wannabe woodsman. I want to go out there, have a safe time and come back home to be ready for work on Monday so that I can continue to provide for my loved ones (which is the real reality in life).
Either way, if all I have is a knife, I'm not in survival mode anymore...I'm just going to be getting home later than expected.
If I didn't have anything, but the clothes on my back, then I'd be survivaling but if I have a knife?
Well, I'm rough camping at that point because I'll have easier means to build a shelter (not that I need a knife for that) or make a fire (not that I need a knife for that) or look for edibles (not that I need a knife for that) 😊
The vid wasn't a 5" knife vs 4" knife vid - though I do have one of those. Short version of the argument in that video - I find the 4" blade better for most "knife" things, and the 5" a bit clumsy. The 5" is also a bit big for wearing on the neck, and I like having it around the neck for all the reasons I lay out in my "why the neck knife video.
Look man you took his course, and are clearly willing to spend way more on knives than me, so I think we just come at these things differently. I also spent a number of years in the trades, wearing a tool belt - but in the woods I use my knife a lot and find it handy to have on my neck - and very hard to lose. A lost belt knife is a useless belt knife.
And all the risks you listed associated with a neck knife are infinitesimally small. Simply falling down and hitting your head is far more likely, but I doubt that keeps you or anyone else out of the woods.
@@outdoorsonthecheap "Look man you took his course, and are clearly willing to spend way more on knives than me, so I think we just come at these things differently."
Yeah, took Basic twice with him, spent a week at his yearling gathering for another 30 or so hours of training and he literally invited me to his deer camp for a one-on-on session where he taught me to hunt. I got to walk his trapline with him and got shown how to dispatch and process a raccoon.
As for what I spend on a knife, I get them based on what they offer. Cost doesn't matter to me. I got knives that cost 25 cents in a thrift store and a few customs that cost more my truck payment. But in the end, it's not what they cost that determine how good they are.
And imagine if you gave Dave the same deference you just gave me for coming at things differently? 😉
"And all the risks you listed associated with a neck knife are infinitesimally small. Simply falling down and hitting your head is far more likely, but I doubt that keeps you or anyone else out of the woods."
Infinitesimally small, but they wouldn't exist if one didn't hang a cutting tool around their neck. It's a voluntary risk where falling on your head is unavoidable because we have to walk. 😂
I like mine sitting in my canoe and around camp the best. My lanyard also has a little line cutter and knot tying tool. My lanyard is leather and has a D ring at the bottom where I clip my knife and tool on. There is no better way to keep what I need close at hand and still out of the way.
love Dave Canterbury BUT good point Im a neck carry guy i use my knife as intended Not as an Axe or a chopping tool
i hate zippers near my crotch and knives near my throat... :P
couple points to make ...... your assuming everyone wears button ups in the woods / with a undershirt ........ been bushcrafting most of my life and 3/4 of the year I wear a t-shirt only in the woods in Kentucky , the swinging and hanging is a safety issue go speak to OSHA about it / also he has a military background so you dont advertise a weakness which a knife hanging visibly off your neck does ( point of control for a attacker ). On to the wetness if you dont wear a button up with a undershirt and only a single non button shirt it will be resting against bare skin and its more to me about the handle getting wet and being less safe to use.
I spoke to the whole military thing. Kinda ridiculous worrying about being attacked in the bush. Makes sense if you watch a lot of movies - doesn't make sense if you spend time in the bush. Must be very few flies or insects in the bush in Kentucky.
you can have your opinion , I have mine and mine comes my experiencing an attack in the woods ...so stay blessed homie glad you have never experienced trauma
Sorry to hear that it's so unsafe where you live. I have experienced trauma - but never in the woods. I never usually see a soul in the woods, and when I do its another guy like me - out for a great day in the woods.
I have had this discusion a hundred times with people, and even did a video on neck knives for my channel. Personally, I wear a much smaller neck knife that you, and several others on youtube do. I tend to wear something along the 1-1/2 to 2" blade. mostly, in the last 10 years I have worn either minimalists by Alan Folts, or his slightly larger S.P.E.C or S.P.E.W. when I am in the woods, I tend to put it inside my shirt completely. but around town I like it accessible. I do wear a belt fixed blade on my belt when I am outside of town. It all comes down to personal preference, I do not like having something as big as a mora ( one I have seen a lot of people wear as a necker) around my neck. but the smaller blades can handle a LOT of tasks that don't require the full sized fixed blade I wear on my belt.
It's funny - I think "personal preference" is the most commonly used phrase in the comments section. I never said people can't do whatever they want. Of course - anyone can do whatever they want. But it's funny that I point out how his only two reasons don't make sense - and then everyone goes on and on about personal preference. If Dave had made a video called, "everyone should do whatever they want for whatever reasons feel good to them personally - I'd have nothing to talk about.
@@outdoorsonthecheap I never meant to imply you said people should only do as you say. I was just saying that I agree with you on the accessibility of neck knives, I have tried larger neckers, and it is just not what works for me.
"Kochanski Carry" is what I call it.
I, too, prefer a smaller knife, as what Kochanski speaks of.
I prefer to carry my knife around the right shoulder, so it dangles under my left arm, using an adjustable lanyard. Works for me.
Its what ever you feel comfortable with..I grew up around plenty of real old timers hunting the north woods of Michigan. I saw a lot of them carrying a folding hunter on the belt and a hatchet attached to a back pack..just what I saw...just personal choice...thanks for a great site.
Just to Add if its good enough for Mors Then its good enough for me
i like my knife around my neck and i can stick it under my shirt or on my button in my coat iv never had a issue waring a knife around my neck i never lost it or it got in my way i prefer it over wearing one on my belt i got a basic 511 used it for 12 years no issue i wear my hatchet on my belt lest stuff that ways you pants down leaves you less time pulling them when your belt and pockets are over loaded and otzis man 4000 years ago when they found his body he had his knife around his neck if it worked back then it works now native American wore there knives around there necks as well great video i have to agree with you
I've been walking through the Brazilian rainforest for a while, it can't get any thicker than that and I never had my neck knife getting caught. It also won't get any wetter and guess what? No rust issue. The only knife that rusts is the one that don't get used
good point
Dave is a “It’s my way or the Highway” type of guy. I knew Dave for years. He’s the guy that coined the phrase “One tool option” which is also ridiculous.
Do what you prefer. Problem solved. He made that video because he was constantly being asked. And he makes money from the videos. Welcome to RUclips.
There's a place for both. A belt knife
I carry my folding saw in my pack. To much on my belt already. Used to keep it there, but damn, couldn't keep my pants up. (Jk, separate belts for pants and gear) . I find I don't use it a lot, but I still like to have it and a bow saw blade, in case. How do you carry yours?
I have a silky Gomboy which I've found is actually a bit big for what I look for in firewood. It would be better justified for building a small log cabin. Lately I stow an Opinel 5" saw in the slim pocket of either my helikon tex, or Fjallraven pants. I find myself using a saw more than a hatchet. saves weight, doesn't scare off animals or use as much energy for most of my tasks.
@@SparkSurvival I have a cheap Walmart one. A silky is a dream for me right now, but I want one.
Silky's are not cheap that's for sure.
@outdoorsonthecheap no they're not. But my next purchase is probably another axe, a Helko Werk. I'm not sure what size or line yet, but I like. I'm trying to make most of my gear to save money.
With the knife high on your chest the protruding of your chest keeps it tight against your shirt. If it's hanging low and tucked in your shirt then yes it could slip out.
Larger knives like Dave canterbury uses then I'd go belt, smaller knives neck knives are great.
I have heard people's in colder climates would carry their blades around the neck as it keeps the blade warmer and less likely to break because of the cold like it would if it was on the belt?
No - it has nothing to do with that. It's just easier to get at when wearing multiple layers.
@@outdoorsonthecheap really
Quite the controversial subject based on the number of comments here. I'd have to agree with this video, but I have a solution for those of us who are in both camps (neck and belt carry), so long as you're carrying a lighter knife. I use a longer lanyard and wear the knife lower using the next buttonhole down. This is much easier to take on and off over the head and for us older (stiffer) guys and gals it's easier to look down and retrieve and secure. For the mora clip style it''s easy to secure to the belt in a dangler fashion by doubling the loop in a figure 8 and tucking behind the belt and clipping to the sheath. No need to remove the belt to secure this way. Good video...Cheers!
Good idea
I have a small neck knife but never carry it. We can all think of reasons to not do one or the other. That being said, I absolutely do not want a scarry sharp knife near my carotid artery, lungs and heart. What are chances of severely cutting your neck while pulling the knife or replacing it? Probably not very likely. But, at 76 years of age, I have learned, "if it can happen, it will." Take it from someone who survived a knife attack....the blood leaves your body with a quickness. Also, it wouldn't hurt to put some sort of break-away on the lanyard. Strangulations with lanyards have happened and will continue to happen. Not only is there the risk of death but also of serious cervical injury. There are cases. True, if you were to fall, trip or slide and the lanyard gets caught up, you could in theory just remove the knife from the sheath and cut the cord. However, in most instances the sheath will be pulled tightly up against your throat with the knife pommel jammed into your neck. Getting it out might be a struggle and you will be drawing a sharp knife right next to your carotid artery and attempting to cut a tight cord right against your neck and head. If it can happen, it will, and likely has.....numerous times. So, put a break-away on your lanyard....it makes sense.
You can also fall down and hit your head on a rock from just walking - or have a car accident from driving - in fact those are probably more likely. You still walk and drive ( I imagine) despite those risks - yet you are concerned about this far lesser risk. I don't get it. A belt knife s near your groin and femoral artery... for some reason these are less vital?
@@outdoorsonthecheap Let me change it, "If it can happen, it has." Look it up. Your driving example is a strawman argument. A belt knife is not near your femoral artery unless you are carrying it over your fly.
Aye, i carry my dirk in the front( groin carry), if it happens, so be it.
DAVE CANTERBURY I TESTED HIS BOOKS HE SAID WHAT WORK OR NOT ..
how about you modify the sheath so it can attach to the inside of a shirt/jacket
The only thing I've ever worn anything around my next was while in the service we were required to wear dog tags and they were on a ball chain which would break easily, which if I were to decide to wear a neck knife it would be on a ball chain for that same reason, point in fact I don't wear rings for that same reason and my wrist watch has a plastic band that will break easily if need be. To each their own, but just watching industrial safety films reinforced my belief that wearing anything that can catch on anything that could inure one is a bad idea.
The forest is not an industrial setting. It's a false premise.
Nor did I say it was, neither was my desk job in the service. Sorry but the dangers of wearing anything around your neck or fingers apply where-ever you are whether you're in the woods or anywhere else, it is just an inconvenient truth, not a false premise. It is a matter of personal choice, and I stated mine and to be clear you or anyone else is free to do as they wish, that said I know of more than one person who lived to regret the choice you have made. Again, if I choose to wear a neck knife it will be on a ball chain. @@outdoorsonthecheap
I must be in perpetual danger, and have been for years.
Perhaps you didn't catch the movie were Clint Eastwood said that tomorrow is promised to no one or perhaps you think you are invincible, but yes you are in danger always just like everyone else, people die every day from the most innocent and seemingly harmless things, but nothing will ever happen to you and that's what they thought too. Again, you are intitled to think and do as you wish as is everyone else, but no one is invincible, not even you. And again, if I choose to wear a neck knife it will be on a ball chain, is that all right with you?@@outdoorsonthecheap
I watch a lot of videos and follow a lot of content creators. I have to say that I do not agree 100% with any one content creator. I take what I find useful and leave the rest. I like Canterbury, and he teaches some incredible and valuable skills, but I don't blindly follow everything he says and does, and that's okay. We are allowed to do that. You can learn something from everybody and adapt that knowledge of what to do and what not to do and adapt it to fit your needs.
Incidentally, what works for me lately is a small neck knife and the Ontario SP-8 on my belt. That combo works well for my needs and I really don't care what anybody else thinks about it. Nobody knows what works best for me other than me. ✌️😁
I agree with you. Personally, I like the Swedish trio: an axe, a puukko and a saw. I have really big knives, but let’s face it, it’s just for the fun of it. They are not more effective and the one tool option is not really ligther than a nice Swedish trio; but even grown up like to play roles from time to time. 😉
I'm also a fan of the Swedish trio