If you are in law enforcement for any length of time, you are going to have someone try to take your primary duty weapon. It’s not a matter of if, it’s a matter of when. The real question is, what are you going to do about it?
There are many valid responses to the question. In my experience, having a tactical knife accessible from your weak side may be the right solution. Of course, there are arguments for any number of options, including close-quarter combat training, OC spray and other less than lethal tools. In the end, you will have to make a choice based on your strengths, your department policy and the other gear you wear or carry daily.
One of the factors in determining your option for weapon retention may be the price point of that option. In searching for a low-cost example of a great tool to assist with weapon retention, I came across many inexpensive knife options that are made to conceal on a duty belt or affix via molle to a plate carrier or vest. Many of these options are under $50, but are made of stainless steel and therefore make for excellent choices.
Be sure you practice with whatever weapon retention tool you choose, put it through some vigorous testing, and, most of all, make sure your method of carrying doesn’t allow the bad guy to get it and use it against you in a struggle.
The bottom line: Have a tool available to protect your duty weapon, know how to use it and make sure it’s carried in a safe manner. Oh, and don’t think it has to be super expensive to be effective. It doesn’t. Be safe brothers and sisters.
In this video, we walk you through one example of the many options available, the 5.11 Tactical Sidekick Boot Knife.
