Benchmade Mini SOCP Dagger

The Benchmade SOCP is an excellent all-around EDC knife that excels in the self-defense role. Though I have never had to use it in that sense, the knife was originally made to fit the needs of U.S. Air Marshals to combat terrorists/hijackers in close quarters following the tragic events of 9/11. The knife was designed by Greg Thompson, who created the Special Operations Combative Program (SOCP) for the United States Army at Fort Bragg to train our most elite warfighters. I picked this knife up on a trip to Dubai last year. I have carried this knife in various orientations, in the waistband, on chest rigs, and in the pocket. By far my favorite is in the pocket because it is easily and rapidly accessible from the deep carry polymer sheath. The knife is made from one solid piece of 440C steel weighing in at 3 ounces. Though not my favorite blade steel, the 440c still provides a decent and long-lasting cutting edge. Though the handle looks slim and awkward, it is surprisingly comfortable. The blade and handle surface have an aggressive Cerakote finish, in conjunction with the finger ring and knurling all provide excellent grip while the knife is in use.

Pros: Double edge blade provides great cutting surfaces, finger ring allows for excellent control, lightweight, easily throwable.

Cons: Can be difficult to deploy in a stressful situation, handle may feel small for ham handers.