Neck Knife to Carry or Not to Carry
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- Опубликовано: 1 окт 2024
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The Pathfinder School,Bush Craft ,Survival skills, Historical Lore, Primitive Skills, Archery, Hunting, Trapping, Fishing, Navigation, Knives, Axes, Fire, Water, Shelter, Search and Rescue
07:39 "There's really nothing that's wrong if it works for you" Now there's the statement Dave. Why doesn't everyone see it that way...
I live in Sweden and have carry neck knife for years, but only in wintertime and between layer 2 and 3. Works perfect...👍🏻🇸🇪
I live in northern New England. I used to think wearing a knife around your neck was silly until I actually gave it a try. My gripes were that I thought it looked silly, and I was worried it would get caught on stuff and somehow choke me.
It turns out that (depending on environment) there are very good reasons that it has been the predominant way of carrying a knife throughout human history and prehistory.
1. (Most impactful to me) allows me to sheathe, and unsheathe without digging under layers in the bitter cold.
2. keeps it farther above the snow.
3. Sheathe and unsheathe regardless of body position (crouching, kneeling, canoeing, etc)
4. ALWAYS being aware that if it is not in your hand, it is in its sheathe.
5. Quicker in and out for when working with it.
6. Keeps you from having a knife that is too large!!
- this in particular will not jive with the standard “Canterbury Dogmatists”. For my own methods I’ve found that the amount gained by having a knife 5” or over is ~functionally~ much less than the dexterity and lightness gained by having a good strong knife in the 3”-4.5” range. A knife however large that is “intended for chopping” will never hold a candle to what a good hatchet will do for you. And even better than both is learning how to get along comfortably with neither.
I think it was Nessmuk who said: anyone who discounts the benefits of lightness ought to start carrying their gear themselves.
Dave, I liked how you point out your opinions about the neck carry and let people make their own choices. Too many "experts" will say do it my way or you're wrong. I like to hear other's reasons why they like or do not like something, then I will make up my own mind. I believe in getting all the info first and then decide. Keep up the great videos.
I have personally spoken to Mors about this subject, both him, and his understudy (Kelly Harlton). They only wear them around camp, they don't travel with them around their necks. Awesome video as always Dave..
ty for the comment, just what i hoped i will find (Mors opinion on the subject)
Both Mors and Dave have such an easy straight forward way of talking and teaching, my thanks to both of them for sharing their knowledge and observations.
I like to carry an Eldris around my neck. I tuck it in my shirt if I am going off trail. It’s not a problem though because it is stainless. A very useful knife🙂👍🏻
Hey Dave I’ve never commented before but I’ve been watching you since your debut on duel survivor which was a long time ago / yes I’m a recluse “ your advise is sound and well thought out with logic and reason ‘ great work keep it up
I find a neck-knife distracting when I bend over. I don't like anything swinging in my field of vision.
I’m a commercial diver and we have always carried our knives high on our harnesses at chest level so it would be just about the same location as a neck knife. I wear a neck knife everyday and it’s tucked in my shirt.
Now; I’m surprised to learn I’m the only guy who uses a magnet to hold the knife while I’m working instead of laying it down. The magnet is glued to the outside of the sheath. So you don’t have to put a dirty blade inside the sheath.
Always like hearing Dave's opinions. Personally I carry a crkt folt's minamalist, mora craftline chisel knife and a box cutter at work. And most of my camping comes from my son's scout troop, which means dealing with a council that tells me that you can only carry a locking pocket knife with a length no greater than the width of your palm, but if you have any questions check the guide to safe scouting. BTW safe scouting says "Boy scouts neither condones nor restricts sheath knives, the right tool for the right job"
I got that knife for like 12 bucks I prefer it over the $60 condor I bought ha ha
Excellent discussion Dave and you nailed this topic in my opinion. I couldn't agree more with the whole thing. I love having a neck knife in camp or by the fire pit when doing light chores but it can ride in my pack or haversack when traveling. I love that you said that there is really no right or wrong in bushcraft or woodcraft rather whatever works for you. I think that is a principle that deserves repeating over and over in our community. Take care brother.
I recall Mors saying he learned it from nurses in the North country. Apparently while in work mode, they would carry a pair of scissors or something similar and he thought it was an efficient way to carry a knife in camp while doing tasks.
The "mini" pocket is actually called a watch pocket which is a holder over from times when people carried a pocket watch.
Thomas Whitten,, you're showing your age, or education, exactly correct, I still carry a pocket watch, just gotta remember to wind. Just something about a 100 year old item that feels good.
Thomas Whitten the problem is that they don’t make the watch pockets big enough for watches anymore
Dave, are you aware that you are the best on youtube??
I thought it was a match pocket. Good to know
Crazy Horseaz glad to hear I'm not the only one still using the pocket watch. Frankly after all the times I've used mine over the last 6 decades, I find it far better for use since retiring a few years ago. Guess that's cause I don't need to 'watch' time constantly.
stay safe keep warm have fun & whittle to keep your sanity
ol greybeard dino
; - )>>~
Neck knives make a lot of sense when you wear big parkas for much of the year and the belt line is not easily accessible. Also much easier to draw and return without taking off mitts or gloves. Explains much about the popularity of the scandi type sheath in northern latitudes.
I agree, the Mora Companion HD is an very under rated knife. Love the Mora plastic sheaths as you demonstrated it has many carry options and I use them all. It's my main carry fixed blade for it's capability and light weight.
If it’s legal and u have one carry both a neck and belt knife just my opinion why not. U loose it that sucks but there cheap usually and if u have one why did u get it to wear it.😁
I carry one around my neck backpacking. I have it on a cord lock device that would release if it got caught. The Eastern Woodland people carried their scalping knives around their neck . Pretty sure they had " bushcrafting " down pretty well. Thanks for another great video Dave and sharing your knowledge.
I know you work for Mora, but that was a great video. Scouts love that HD and your advice is always appreciated. God bless you and thanks for all your help. I'm sure you have saved a life and made them more prepared.
As always, thoroughly brilliant work Dave. I was first introduced to the Mora line of knives several years ago from one of your videos. Now I have various models of them all over the place! Thanks for your continued great work.
Am I the only one not on the mora train? lol i just haven’t found a need to buy one. Am I missing something? Haha
Yeah the underbrush from the coast to the Mississippi is such heavy underbrush. Before man cut down large swaths of forest it’s said that a squirrel could’ve traveled from the coast to the Mississippi without touching the ground. Thanks for all your efforts and videos.
I live in Minnesota on the edge of where the trees meet the "Prairie", and also meets the shore of the ancient Lake Agassiz, where the glacier carved the Red River valley. I too want to see what where I live now, looked like 150 years ago......
I'm in MIssissippi and you're right. It's still that way in many places.
I'm in the Pacific Northwest and it's the same here. The branches and bushes will strip you naked if your not careful.
And I like the Mora sheaths too, I'm glad I'm not the only one! Thanks for the great video Dave!
A good explanation of the pros and cons of neck knives. For what it's worth I don't carry a knife like this as I don't like a very sharp blade near my throat, or anywhere else vulnerable on my body. Back last year my camping companion was making some adjustments to his shelter and did not have a knife to hand. I passed him mine (a Mora coincidentally). When he gave it back he had not sheathed it properly. As I was putting it back into my pack the knife fell out of its sheath and sliced into my finger. The unexpected does happen and, to me, it's far too easy to cut your neck when taking a neck knife out, or putting it back, into its sheath.
I have no problem with others using a neck knife if they like to carry this way. It's their throat, not mine. Dave also makes a very good point about the risk of anything suspended from your neck possibly choking you if you fall or it gets caught up in moving machinery. Good idea to have a device to slip the thig off before it strangles you.
The "tall ship" sailor tradition is to carry your knife in a sheath over your hip. Climbing around in the rigging has as much or more potential for getting snagged as hiking through heavy brush.
it's a shame you have to battle commentors on opinions...sorry. be well. Great video...
I like the neck knife just because of how convenient it is, but mine are all small utility knives. The Top's MSK and new Mora Eldris are good examples. In warm weather I tend to just carry them in camp, but in colder weather when I'm likely to have on several layers I'll have my neck knife on all the time just so that I don't have to dig out my belt knife every time I need to cut something.
People carry a knife around their neck?! Yikes!
In tree work, we carry all tools- chainsaw, pole saws, brush axes, whatever- with the sharp part to the back. The reason being, should you trip and fall, you don't fall on the sharp part. You may still get cut, but it won't be in the face, neck, chest or groin.
What people take things literally and get offended on social media. I would of never thought. What's this world coming too. Thanks for the video great tips. Appreciate all your videos and advice and opinion. I watch allot of other people's videos on survival techniques. Always good to seeing what others do and why. Keep them coming sir we have much more sentimental sensitive people to piss off. Stay safe.
Thanks Dave! I can see there would be a use for carrying the knife about the neck. The one concern I have always had was safety. I am wondering, is it safe to carry a knife around the neck? I am imagining a hard fall...is there any danger in the knife stabbing me? I would like to hear thoughts on this...
Before the 1920s belts weren't used to hold up pants, they were worn on your waist (not hips) over your layers. So I think the traditional belt knife/belt axe was easier to hand back then today on a modern pants belt.
Good points. Function over form. Adaptability/versatility.
It seems Horizontal/Scout carry is not popular. Why not? What's NOT GOOD about it?
Something that Dave alluded to in his video but didn't show. I just watched a video today by Bushcraft Bums showing an alternative to the neck carry. Just use a 6' length of paracord, make a figure 8 and put your arms through it. Clip on your knife sheath and you basically have a holster style carry with the knife under your armpit. It give you ready access to the knife; you don't have the swinging motion and it doesn't get in your way when bending over. Neat, simple and you have a few extra feet of paracord on your carry. Leave a little extra length of paracord on one side and then you can adjust the carry for different thicknesses of clothing too.
In the Texas summer I wear mostly shorts so it’s hard to get a fixed blade on without pulling my shorts down. I adapted to a neck knife and haven’t had a problem. I usually carry it in my shirt or have it tucked between buttons for an easy grab.
Right on don't think you should explain yourself but when people ask it needs a answer.
I have made my own knives and sheathes , I like leather sheaths. And carbon steel. And I have yet to a have a rusting problem. I guess I am lucky. But I observe maintaince. Check with the laws of your state as to what is considered a cancelled weapon.
Dave, thanks. I do carry my knife around my neck (because of Mors). I use this breakaway... Not only good and works, but it makes you practice the knot every time it breaks: ruclips.net/video/Os_EOrcaXSQ/видео.html
Secondly, Mors' theory (which applies in the Eastern Woodlands) is that it came from guys in Scandinavia-somewhere who the carried knife around neck so if they fell into the ice, they could get to the knife easily and use it as a pick to pull themselves out.
That knife could easily be slid up your sleeve and be at the ready, yet not too long to be an annoyance .... again, many options of carry for smaller knives
Mountain men absolutely did wear neck knives long before Nessmuk or Kephart were stomping the woods, which of course they picked up from the natives. I've been involved in pre-1840 Rendezvous for many years and it's quite common. And we're all history enthusiasts there and well researched on our time periods. They were also worn in Colonial and French-India era times on the frontier. Keep in mind, they didn't have pockets back then for a knife. They didn't have belt loops and belts. They had a large wrap around belt/buckle to cinch in the clothes (or a sash). So if you were in comfortable clothes, you may not be wearing a thick heavy belt on which to have a sheath attached. The time period you're referencing, they had pockets (hence 1/3 of the Nessmuk Trio). As for modern, I think it depends on why you're carrying a neck knife. I work out in the yard and such a lot, but I live in Florida where you're wearing shorts 9 months a year at least. So I'm out in gym shorts and a small ESEE Izulu II in a kydex sheath with paracord and a cord lock is perfect to have in case I need it in the yard.
I carried the CRKT minimalist for about 1 &1/2 years as a neck knife until one day my friend and I were sparing and he grabbed it right out of the sheath, I wasn't expecting it, and it also never crossed my mind that someone could get it from me so easily. I switched to waist carry.
I hate necklaces. It always gets in my way but some people love them and know how to maneuver fine like that. NBD no big deal
I never could accept any loop that would not easily break loose around my neck . Always figured it's why bead chain was created for servicemen . Any considerations you have Dave I will be awake and listening though . Thanks be
I don't like the retention of mora sheets.. one day i was searching for things in my backpack and i cut myself because the knife get out of the sheet...
Here in Sweden there is most of the times a button for a knife on the leg by the cargo pocket . Also often on overalls on the chest pocket. At work I put my Mora in my leg pocket to keep clear jumping in and out of my forklift.
I love my Mora Companion HD carbon steel knife. Like you said, the sheath is almost bomb proof and easily adaptable to a host of carry options. The knife itself only had one flaw as purchased: the spine wasn't a sharp 90 degree angle. A few strokes with a sharp mill bastard changed it to my liking and it has been great ever since. Thanks for the good work, Dave.
Hello from Oklahoma! I am with you on this. I usually keep my knife in my backpack. When I need it I can stop and use it. Cleaning fish or gutting a deer for example. Around camp and when I'm in my canoe, I also hang it from my neck. This has worked for me for the last 40 years. Thanks for all You do. And yes, people need to figure there own way. God Bless!
forget the story but i think a few days ago ; someone on a bike or motorcycle with a large knife in his back pack fell off the bike and got stabbed bad with the knife.
Sad really a man has to tip toe around a subject. If that is one of your main concerns people you shouldn't be in the woods.
Personally... Knife on my hip and a folder in my back pocket for woodcraft. Everyday living... Folder in my back pocket.
If you have it in your jacket around your neck you also cant get to it one handed nor is it stable to pull it out
You are right about neck knife in the woods. I always carry a neck knife in the city but I carry it upside down for quick access to the blade.
What works for you, so true.
Dave I love it when you do a video like this, you don’t discount anyone’s personal preference, you show and explain your preferences and give good account of the do’s and don’t’s for both sides of the coin👍
I can't wear anything around my neck because of the way I walk. It would eventually come up and smack me in the face.
Couldn't agree more. The Mora HD/MG is highly under rated. 1st bought and the most I use. Other than squaring off the spine its a very solid blade. I've used it for years around the house & in the woods. Definitely recommended.
I don't want anything around my neck.....jus sayin
Beware the DOORMAN TREE. You walk into the woods and it says, "I TAKE YOUR HAT SIR."
I love neck knives they are your always knife in survival and self defense at least for me
I don't care for the Mora sheath. I lost my brand new knife and sheath when I was on a kayaking trip. It slipped off my belt ( not the first time this happened) and into the water that was way to deep to recover it.
I agree, I carry a opinel around my neck sometimes when I am somewhat stationary. The wild country out here in Western Washington is full of underbrush and blackberry bushes that grab onto you and don't let go. Nice choice of Mora by the way, the companion hd is my favorite.
The Companion HD was one of my very first knives. After years I still carry it - simply because it does what it has got to do. Great product from Morakniv indeed.
awesome video to many people depend on others to tell them ho to do things instead of learning through experience. you are an amazing teacher but you always say to take what you say with a grain of salt. less watching more doing. thanks for the education over the years you have inspired millions
Yeah the companion HD is a great knife, got mine for about 20 bucks and couldn’t be happier with it. It was razor sharp when I got it and still is. I was really impressed with how easy it cut though deer hide and didn’t dull. Thanks Dave keep the videos coming, you have helped me learn new things and I challenge myself to practice.
Smeedden in Europa hadden vroeger veel een werk mes om hun nek hangen .
Waarom ze hadden een zwaar leren schort om waar alles onder zat!
Groeten opa
I sometimes carry a small neck knife, usually when canoeing so I don't have to reach down into a pocket while seated. It's used for cutting line, bait etc. And it's SS so I don't worry about rust.
Good video. For a neck knife I like paracord for comfort. FOR safety I take the strands out and thread a light pull chain through it spit breaks away easier
Good advice as always...I think experience is the best teacher..I enjoy canoeing swift waters and sometimes you cant avoid going under overhanging limbs..I don't want a piece of stout cordage around my neck, I just dont, in camp though makes perfect sense as one is preparing a fire or cooking and having a blade handy is, simply handy. Nice looking jacket, very dapper in a woodsmen kinda way.
i personally like a neck knife for several reasons the first being if you have a flat knife it fits under a shirt and is hard to spot the second is its quick to get to if you need it the third if im carrying a sidearm i can have a gun on my hip and still have easy access to my blade but to each their own love the vids dave keep up the awesome work
I carry a neck knife when I hike because I am constantly harvesting sprigs of leaves for tree identification, or branches for whittling projects. So, by the end of my hike, I have accumulated quite a bit of branches and leaves. The knife I use is the SAK Trekker which has a substantial cutting blade and a very good saw. It is also very handy in emergency situation to have a knife at your chest rather than on your belt. It works for me and fills the purpose of why I hike.
ElderHiker I
Just make it a habit to oil the blade on a regular basis and it will be fine.
I miss the old "hanging out with Dave in the Woods" style videos! :D
Also I like carrying my knife around my neck in the Winter, due to having to wear so many layers, its hard to reach a belt when you are bundled up in the Canadian winter! :D
I carry a puukko neck knife as a Finnish tradition.
Here is something I think I can comment on with some experience. I do not ever hang a knife around my neck, in fact I won't ever hang anything around my neck. Reason : very simple, I am a life long martial artist that has focused on a more realistic / street aspect. This makes for a perfect thing to grab and choke a person out or to death with. For me it is a survival aspect. For me the first thing I would do is grab any item that is hanging off someone and use it to my advantage. Same for ear rings, nose rings, etc. A good strong cord holding your neck knife is a perfect thing for me to grab and choke you unconscious with. Of course most will never have to worry about this happening but I think don't get into a habit I see to be "bad". Not really bushcraft but more survival aspect and reason. I won't even get into what I'd do with that knife.
It’s convenient, I personally don’t like things hanging off my neck
I like having my Mora Eldris around my neck with a light my fire scout ferry rod, but it hangs low enough to sit in my shirt pocket, out of the way.
I missed these kinds of videos, thank you for your insight. There's a lot of key points that you bring up that not many others cover, in books or in life. Glad you're back :)
I wear my neck knife laced into the top of my boot
In the winter and rainy seasons I find my jacket makes it hard to access my belt knife. Really helpful to have a neck knife around camp
Great massage Dave thank you Sir.
My 110 years old grandmother is watching this video and she says you just need to use common sense wisdom comes with age
Edward Annable that is awesome ! Please tell her i said hello ! (Im his buddy he mentioned at the beginning lol )
But Dave, if I don't have my knife hanging from my neck I won't be tactiCOOL! ;-)
Hi Dave, great information about neck knifes. I’ve got several bushcraft knives, my recent being a Lars Fault Casstrom . However I’m a mora fan and have the HD carbon, I’ve also ordered the mora neck knife.
Here in the UK the only edc knife has to be a folder, not fixed blade and under 3” in length. This I carry every day in my pocket. The neck knife(allowed in the forest), i am dubious about as I carry it on 550 para. There’s several links on breakaway knots and joining this way for safety reasons. Still not sure what is the best method though?
I’m also looking forward to getting a Dave Canterbury folder. Difficult to get here in England, price is very good values and also reviews! Postage and delivery though is expensive here.
What kind of jacket is that (brand)
Hey thanks brother. Thank you for sharing your wisdom with us. I totally agree with you about not having your knife into close your body where you’re going to be sweating on it. I have a chest pack that every time I carry a gun in it it ends up having sweat condensed all over it when I’m done. I have to completely field strip it and clean it all off. God bless you and your wonderful family Dave my friend. John
So pick a carry option you are comfortable with.
That loop is a very good idea! The access is better with the Mora clipped to the pocket, but it is not as secure when the hooks are not fully engaged around a belt.
Totally agree with you on this one Dave.
I dove for abalone, and can't carry a dive knife because it catches on the kelp and thus could drown as a result. Also, I too overanalyze.
Cool video David. Thanks for being honest I’m your statements. Lots of men can’t admit to over analyzing things. But hey. Men we’re built to do so.. stay praying my man take care.
In short I am to fat for a belt so for a fat ass like me it works,...
sound woods wisdom.......well said...safe journeys
excellent!....makes good sense to me!...i like the companion HD...a solid knife with a great price...thanks David!...woods
Great video, Dave. Your philosophy and reasoning for neck knife or no neck knife are sound. I am an advocate for "my" neck knives. I have several including the Mora Companion HD. Mostly wearing them in camp just for quick access plus I wear sports shorts or long pants sans belt (comfort thing for me). At 71 I don't bushwhack using trails clearly defined so no worry about catching on branches, etc. should I wear one while hiking. I do have sense enough to remove it if it becomes a hazard to my health. Like you said it's subjective.
Dave hi to you from Ukraine!. Thanks for video! Like!
Great video! The advantage of a Mora is the the price. For a tops, or Esse, or any high priced carbon knife I can get multiple moras. I have a companion that I bought 8years ago and did a vinegar patina on it and it's still great knife. I just oil the blade no more than two to three times a year. I agree with Dave about the sheath, very useful!
looks like a warm shirt. wool i guess
knifes are the most important tool you can havedo you take something to resharpen your knifes with when you are out?like maybe a small diamond sharpener maybe?
Ive always carried a small patch knife since my buckskinning days but dont think I would like a full size knife
All I know dave the old guys at the sportsman club witch had a bunch guys who did a lot flint lock shooting and reactor , carried a patch knife around there neck some guys carried on there leather sling on there possible pouch or on there possible pouch I guess it personal choosing
I carry a neck knife only once in awhile...