The purpose of this course is to “train-the-trainer” to instill capability and confidence on the part of their trainees for the safe carry and use of their utility knife. By receiving this training, the safety of the trainee will be significantly enhanced not only for themselves but for officers and civilians in the immediate area.
- Course Length: 2Days (16hours)
- Facilities: PowerPoint – no mats needed
- Prerequisites: None
- Weapons: None
- Prior Training: None
- Requirements: Established by hosting agency.
A knife has many practical uses in police work. Carried by virtually every officer on the department and used in the field and in plain view of the public, most departments have little or no policy and their officers receive zero training on it – which presents a certain degree of departmental liability and exposure. An absolute necessity, especially for first-responders, the folding knife is an important service utility tool. However, unlike most tools, this one can seriously injure in the event of mishandling. The specific purpose of this two-day course is to “train-the-trainer” to instill capability and confidence on the part of their trainees to safely carry and use their folding knife. By receiving this training, the safety of both the instructor and his trainees will be substantially enhanced not only for themselves but for other officers and civilians in the immediate area. There is an additional section of this course to provide officer safety via protective measures versus a sudden and unexpected knife attack by subjects wielding an edged weapon.
Important note: this is NOT a class that shows how to stab or cut someone. Be advised that this is NOT a defensive tactics course and DOES NOT in any way provide instruction in the usage of the working knife as a weapon.
What to expect: Brief lecture, demonstration, practical familiarization exercises (mostly hands-on), information-based training and medium physical activity.
*** LEO/ DoD ATTENDANCE PERMITTED ONLY ***
Performance Objectives: Upon completion of this program of instruction, the student will be able to demonstrate an understanding of the course material through verbal discussion and/or correct performance of the following concepts, drills and techniques.
- Demonstrate clear understanding of department policy referencing selection, safe carry and usage of the folding knife while on duty.
- Demonstrate knowledge of selection, care, maintenance (sharpening, lubrication, etc.,) and proper storage of a folding knife.
- Demonstrate proficiency in at least three (3) methods of “safe open” (unfolding blade to “locked” position in a controlled manner) applicable to first responders.
- Demonstrate proficiency in rapid and safe deployment (removal and “safe opening” from carry position) of a folding knife applicable to first responders.
- Demonstrate proficiency in safe handling (access, open, lock, unlock, close and secure) so as to ensure officer safety as well as that of others in the vicinity of operation.
- Identify and develop a personal and positive grip fitting the officer’s specific hand and wrist type, thumb flexion, finger length and physical stature necessary for optimum carry access, deployment and safe operation of the folding knife in the field.
- Demonstrate clear understanding and the safe usage of various shaped points (drop-point, spear point, angled-point, sheep’s foot, etc.,) and various edge types (straight edged, serrated edge, half-serrated, curved, etc.,) of the folding knife on both flexible and rigid materials in such a manner as to familiarize and ensure the safety of the officer as well as others in the vicinity of operation.
- Identify and demonstrate proficiency in acquisition of at least three (3) common operational body postures (standing, kneeling, seated, prone, etc.,) so as to ensure stability and familiarity of operation throughout carry, deployment (removing and opening from carry position) and safe usage in the field.
- Demonstrate safe, effective overall operation of the folding knife employing the point, edge and handle (using optimal grip) to accomplish tasks as required for police work.
KEY TOPICS COVERED
- Blade Identification – What is the difference between a fixed blade and a folding blade? What’s the difference in usage of a serrated edge versus a non-serrated edge? What are the characteristics and attributes which differentiate a straight edge versus a curved blade?
- Knife Selection – What should I look for when purchasing a folding knife? How exactly do you measure your hand and know that it is a perfect fit? What’s the right knife for me? How much should I spend? What are the best types of materials, blade length, type, steel, handle materials, for me?
- Knife Usage – How to safely, carry, access, open and secure the folding knife
- Edged Weapon Defense – Learn the six easiest and most effective ways to defend against a knife attack in self-defense while under duress.
- Empty Hand Defense – Learn the seven lethal strike zones on the human body and how can you defend against them BEFORE you can or are UNABLE to present your firearm.
What to Bring: Program of instruction can be run slick or in full kit based on training supervisory recommendation. Notebooks (or notepads) are very welcome. Still photos and limited video OK.
Weapons: Inert weapons (blue/ red guns) with appropriate holsters are required for this program of instruction. All other training materials supplied.