Knife Blade Modifications

NoRoadtrippin · 03-08-2010, 22:24

Out of curiosity, is .2 inches really an issue at SFAS? I have always seen packing lists for schools I have attended say "knives not over x inches." These have seemed to range from 3-4 or maybe 5 inches. I always considered more the spirit of the rule implying that they don't want Joe showing up to class with a crew-served blade, and just I've just taken whatever folder I was already carrying while in uniform. I understand that following the rules given is of utmost importance, but are SFAS cadre really measuring knife blades for this much accuracy?

Inceptor · 03-09-2010, 17:24

Quote:

Originally Posted by NoRoadtrippin

I understand that following the rules given is of utmost importance, but are SFAS cadre really measuring knife blades for this much accuracy?

To me, it's not worth finding out the hard way. I don't want to fall 0.2" short of getting selected, especially when it's something fully within my control to avoid.

The Wave seems to be a good choice; I may try to trade my Super-Tool for one to leave more money for my boot budget...

Respectfully,

A.W.

**Bill Harsey** · 03-10-2010, 08:23

Quote:

Originally Posted by Inceptor

To me, it's not worth finding out the hard way. I don't want to fall 0.2" short of getting selected, especially when it's something fully within my control to avoid.

Respectfully,

A.W.

For general reference a blade length is measured from the tip end of the blade to the front edge of the handle or whatever device or frame that is holding it.

Of course a folding knife blade is measured in the full open position and again, it is tip of blade to front of the handle.

If you have 3 inches of actual cutting edge on a folder blade but another 1/2" of flat ("Ricasso" in old world cutlery terms) to the front of the handle then...

This means you have a three and one half inch long knife.
This is also how law enforcement will measure it.

mcarey · 03-10-2010, 08:42

I recommend the new swiss army trecker!

http://www.swissarmy.com/MultiTools/...product=54876&

craigepo · 03-10-2010, 08:51

SFAS must have changed a lot since I went through. The only thing I remember using a knife for was opening mre's or cutting moleskin. Damn sure didn't want any more weight to haul around. A $5 1-inch pocket knife from wal-mart would have been fine.

Inceptor · 03-10-2010, 15:30

Quote:

Originally Posted by Bill Harsey

For general reference a blade length is measured from the tip end of the blade to the front edge of the handle or whatever device or frame that is holding it.

Thank you, sir! The knife blades on my current tool measure 3-1/16" from the handle to the tip. This matches Leatherman's published dimensions. I bought the tool online after reading about it in "Get Selected" but didn't research it well enough first. I will have a measuring tape when I purchase my next tool (from a brick-and-mortar store) to make sure it's in-spec before I buy it.

Quote:

Originally Posted by craigepo

SFAS must have changed a lot since I went through. The only thing I remember using a knife for was opening mre's or cutting moleskin. Damn sure didn't want any more weight to haul around. A $5 1-inch pocket knife from wal-mart would have been fine.

I chose multi-tool over knife for the pliers and awl to make field-expedient repairs if needed. I hope it doesn't turn out to be a paper-weight at SFAS, but I currently couldn't live without it at work.

Respectfully,

A.W.

**Bill Harsey** · 03-10-2010, 16:24

As per blade lengths...
It goes without saying that in no way do I speak for any of the QP Instructor Cadre. You guys have to sort that out yourselves.