How to EDC a Fixed Blade Knife: 9 Different Techniques

Fixed blade knives are known for their strength and convenience, and they often make perfect tools for self-defense, hunting, fishing, camping, and other outdoor excursions.

But similar to other knives, carrying a fixed blade all day can require a little forethought to integrate into your daily carry.

To EDC a fixed blade knife, aside from overtly attaching your blade on the exterior of a bag or something similar, you can also use inside-the-waistband (IWB) and outside-the-waistband (OWB) techniques. Other methods of carrying a fixed blade knife for daily use include scout, cant, neck, belly band, and the drop-leg technique.

Let’s take a look at a few of the knife carry positions you can take advantage of.

Why Would You Want to EDC a Fixed Blade Knife

A knife is one of the most convenient tools you can carry.

Not only can you put knives into good use during outdoor activities like camping and hunting, but you can also use them in a myriad of day-to-day tasks and even self-defense if needed.

Due to this, it is important to find safe, convenient, accessible ways to move around with your fixed blade knife throughout the day. 

Fixed Blade Carry Techniques

Attach to Bag or Backpack

Bag carry is one of the easiest and most convenient ways to carry a fixed blade knife.

However, with bag carry, you’ll need to accept that you won’t have your knife with you in case you leave the bag behind.

But, it’s nonetheless a convenient way to move around with a knife, especially when hiking, camping, or backpacking.

Although clipping on a bag is not a true “EDC carry method”, it will work for people who use bags frequently.

Therefore, if bag carry is your preferred method, be sure to find an attachment location that makes sense for your specific use, preferably an area that gives you access without having to remove the entire bag.

Pocket Carry Technique

For this EDC method, you’ll need a pocket static-line and a strong enough sheath.

The static-line can be attached to a belt or belt loop and the sheath, allowing you to draw the knife without removing the sheath manually. 

Once the static line pulls tight on your draw, your blade will then clear the sheath.

The sheath is then left hanging on the static-line attached to your belt loop.

While some might prefer this EDC method, it isn’t too practical for carrying fixed blades as it may congest the pocket, making it look bulky and unsightly.  

Drop-Leg Carry Technique

This is an accessible way to carry a knife if you don’t mind it hanging off your hip.

One benefit is that it allows you to position your knife and sheath slightly below your belt line to prevent the handle from jabbing you on the side.

To be honest, I’m not sure of many applications where this would be the ideal carry method but it’s at least worth mentioning.

Inside-the-Waistband (IWB) Carry Technique

With the inside-the-waistband (IWB) technique, the sheath and blade are both inside the pants, mostly concealed.

However, the handle usually protrudes above the waistline to allow for easy drawing.

As with everything, be sure to review your local laws to determine if it’s legal since it may fall under the ‘carrying a concealed weapon‘ category.

Outside-the-Waistband (OWB) Carry Technique

This is an ideal way to carry your fixed blade knife every day depending on your situation.

All you’ll need is to attach your knife to your belt, either tip-up or tip-down, and voila, you’re good to go!

This is my preferred carry when I’m out in the field, primarily hunting and fishing.

I like to have quick access to a blade for practical use and even emergencies like having to cut free from fishing gear, etc.

Scout Carry or Horizontal Carry Technique

This is another amazing technique to EDC your fixed blade.

Scout carrying a knife means it’s perfectly aligned with your belt such that it neither protrudes up or down.

I most commonly call this horizontal carry, but I guess it has an official name.

I like to carry as centerline as possible for fast, ambidextrous access. It should be noted, this carry is sometimes utilized in the small of the back as well.

The scout carry technique allows for easy access and can come in handy during self-defense scenarios.

Cant Technique

The cant EDC technique is similar to the scout carry method in regards to placements (always subjective).

However, the main difference is that you’ll position the knife at a slightly inclined position utilizing the cant technique.

The cant method makes it easier to draw the blade from the sheath when needed, depending on the hand you will use for your draw.

Neck Carry

You can also place your fixed blade on your neck such that it hangs from a cord, chain, or other means around your neck. This method is ideal for small-sized fixed blades but can prove too cumbersome for knives with extra bulk and weight.

Disclaimer, neck carry can also be viewed as carrying a concealed weapon per some laws. So, be cognizant when you are researching what is legal in relation to where you live.

Belly Band

Using a belly band like the Clutch by Unity Tactical, can provide a low-vis method for carry a fixed blade as well. They key is to have a belly band that offers good retention.

What I like about the Clutch is the loop velcro inside the individual compartments on this belly band. I used some industrial strength hook velcro and affixed it to the back of my kydex sheath. One secured in place, it allows an easy draw stroke and the sheath doesn’t budge an inch.

Advantages of Fixed Blade Knives

• Come in a lot of sizes: Fixed blade knives are very versatile in regards to the size. That is, you can find fixed blade knives in pretty much any size, depending on your preferences. In addition to size, the options are quite varied in regards to blade styles, handle styles, and materials as well.

• Easy to maintain: Fixed blade knives are easy to clean and maintain. You won’t need to worry about disassembling the entire knife when cleaning since fixed blade knives come as a single unit. This doesn’t mean they are maintenance-free, it just means they typically have fewer parts, pieces, nooks, and crannies, to address during maintenance.

• Varied uses: Fixed blade knives can find a home for almost any task. You can pretty much you can find a fixed blade for work tasks, hunting, fishing, survival, hiking, backpacking, self-defense, and more. Not all knives are the same, so be sure to do a little research to determine what’s best for your unique application.

• Self-defense: Although folding knives have an edge when it comes to ease of carry (just drop in or clip to a pocket), fixed blade knives can be easier to draw in emergent situations (not always). All you have to do is make a proper draw stroke and the knife is ready to respond to threats. You can always rely on a fixed blade as they do not require any form of action to open up and get into service.

• Superior survival tool: Fixed blade knives can be used in a wide range of activities. You can use them as digging, splitting, cutting, and even first aid. Further, fixed blade knives can also be used as hunting weapons, prying tools, or even in preparing food. The options are almost limitless.

• Easy to handle: You do not have to be an expert to put a fixed blade to good use. Moreover, the presence of large handles allows you to generate more power when using them in scenarios where you need a little extra oomph.

Reasons why some prefer a fixed blade over a folding blade

Legal Considerations

The laws that regulate the possession, use, and carry of fixed blade knives in the U.S. can vary greatly by state.

While it is generally allowed to carry a fixed blade knife in most states, certain restrictions or conditions may apply.

For example, some states may have limits on the length of the blade or may prohibit certain types of knives such as switchblades or daggers.

It’s important to be aware of the laws in your state before carrying a fixed blade knife.

If you really have a concern, it may be beneficial to consult with a lawyer or contact your local law enforcement agency to insure compliance with applicable regulations.

Winding Up

Fixed blade knives are must-have tools for a lot of folks.

Besides coming handy in outdoor activities like camping, fishing, and hiking, fixed blade knives can also be useful in survival situations and for defense weapons when used correctly.

If your state is not strict on carrying concealed weapons, then you might consider using the scout carry, cant carry, and IWB techniques.

You can also attach your fixed blade knife on your bag or backpack (if that fits your need).

Pocket carry, OWB, and drop-leg are other techniques you can use to EDC a fixed blade knife as well.

Whichever knife carry position you prefer, ensure you buy a fixed blade that fits your need and has a strong reliable sheath to boot.