Tactical Knives Magazine returns to its roots

I have been reading Tactical Knives on and off since 1997. There have been times when the magazine offered superb articles and hard core reviews where writers would abuse knives in ways they might be used in an emergency. There have also been times when the magazine suffered from outdated content, and seemed to be more of an advertiser index with nice pictures. I just picked up the "JAN 2009" issue of TK at a local Fred Meyer store's newsstand. I'm pleased to report, that for me at least, the entire issue is worthy of repeated cover-to-cover reads, the way it used to be.

When Jon and I cruised down to Portland, and Oregon City back in April for camping, and a pilgrimage to the Benchmade Knife Company factory and HQ, we obtained the spring 2008 issue of TK back then. It also, was a good read, chock full of info and good reviews.

Highlights from this issue include:

* Coverage of WASP's CO2 blasting knives that not only cut, but enable the user to inject freezing air into the wound channel...you must see the pix of the watermelon being destroyed

* Full writeup on Cold Steel's inexpensive Pocket Bushman folder, which happens to be on my Xmas list

* A good article on pocket/portable survival kits

* An article echoing my own thoughts on Gerber's Steadfast [the new version LMF] fixed blade as a "Bugout blade" for urban survival

plus much more, including the skinny on Wilkins aftermarket handles for Benchmade's Griptilian series knives from an American ex-pat in Germany.



This blog is in part, at least on my end, somewhat inspired by my love of Tactical Knives magazine over the last 10+ years. The people who write and edit the magazine are true experts in survival, law enforcement and combat and tend to offer very good information for both enthusiasts and casual knife buyers. Tactical Knives editor Steven Dick, a 'Nam vet and survival expert, once wrote that he believes a knife or tool is "tactical" if it is made and meant to be used. I agree, and you won't find any overpriced Chinese-made fantasy wall-hanger garbage covered in TK Magazine...or here on Sharp, Bright and Tactical WebMagazine.