Expert Review Excellent cqb tool - Benchmade 178 SOCP Dagger w/ 7.25" OAL

Really excellent knife. There are several companies producing this design but I really like the Benchmade variant as you can get all you need in one package and still have some options.

I have both the single side edge (with serrations) and the dual sided edge. I prefer the serrations for more utility work (like stripping wires) and I prefer the plain blade for self defense uses.

The sheath is well made and can be set up or attached in a variety of ways with the right imagination and hardware.

I highly recommend getting the trainer. If you plan to take a class/course then you will need the trainer and even if you don't intend to take formal instruction with this knife, you will become a more proficient user by practicing with the trainer. It is almost always a good idea to get a trainer blade (if offered) with any knife you may seriously consider using in a fight.

But even though this is a combat design, I have used it for plenty of utility work. Comfortable in the hand given the design and the pull ring makes deployment second nature.

Great tool to have, that's why I have two.