How to Carry a Fixed Blade Knife

Fixed-blade knives provide reliability and strength for your outdoor adventures, work tasks, and everyday needs. When you master proper carry methods, your knife stays secure and ready when you need it. This guide helps you choose and use the right carry method for your CRKT fixed blade.

Basic Carry Methods

Belt Carry

The standard method secures your knife sheath to your belt. Position your knife on your dominant side behind your hip - imagine your waist as a clock face, with your belly button at 12 o'clock. Right-handed users typically place the knife between 3 and 5 o'clock, left-handed users between 7 and 9 o'clock.

Set your belt attachment point high enough to keep the knife from hitting your leg while walking or running. Positioning your handle grip at or just below your belt line gives you the quickest draw while keeping the knife close to your body. Belt carry works well with medium to large fixed blade knives, such as the Bugsy™ Fixed. 

Inside Waistband Carry

Besides a standard belt carry, you can carry your knife with an inside waistband (IWB) method. Carrying a fixed blade inside the waistband has gained traction with those who prioritize concealment, accessibility, and security. By positioning the sheath inside your waistband at your preferred location, such as your hip or small of the back you can better conceal the knife and minimize its visibility under clothing. 

A well-designed sheath for IWB carry provides secure retention to keep the knife in place and an ergonomic shape for comfortable all-day wear. The S.P.E.W.™ is a practical option for IWB carry, thanks to its slim profile and strong sheath retention. This setup also helps shield the blade from dirt and moisture, keeping it in top condition during daily wear.

Scout Carry

Scout carry runs your knife horizontally across your lower back. This setup works great with longer fixed blades like the CRKT Siwi™ Fixed, especially when you're carrying a backpack or sitting in vehicles. The horizontal position spreads the weight across your back and keeps the handle from catching on your gear. You can mount the knife for left or right hand draw with most adjustable sheaths.

Neck Carry

For compact knives like the CRKT Minimalist® series, neck carry gives you quick access without bulk. Thread a breakaway safety cord through your sheath's mounting holes and adjust until your knife sits at mid-chest. The breakaway cord is a safety feature that releases under strong pressure, preventing injury if your knife gets caught on something.

Pocket Carry

Your fixed blade can ride in larger pockets when fitted with the right sheath setup. The CRKT Razel™ Compact Fixed excels at pocket carry thanks to its compact size and versatile sheath design. Choose a sheath with secure clips that prevent the knife from shifting, and always use a model designed specifically for in-pocket placement - never carry a fixed blade loose in your pocket.

Backpack Carry

Mounting your fixed blade on your pack keeps it accessible while reducing body-mounted weight. Secure your sheath to MOLLE webbing, compression straps, or dedicated gear loops. Position the knife where it won't interfere with putting on or removing your pack, and ensure the blade orientation prevents accidental contact with your pack material. The Soldotna Fixed from CRKT works well with a backpack carry due to its larger size and adjustable sheath. 

Drop Leg Carry

A drop leg platform extends your knife below belt level, offering advantages when seated or wearing bulky gear. Use a quality leg strap with non-slip backing and adjustable height settings. Keep the knife high enough to clear your knee when walking, and use a secondary strap near your knee to prevent the platform from swinging during movement.

Ready to find your perfect carry solution?

Visit CRKT to discover our fixed blade knives and sheaths, designed for secure and comfortable carry in any situation. Browse our selection at www.crkt.com.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the best way to carry a fixed blade knife while hiking?

For hiking, scout carry or high belt carry works best. These positions keep the knife accessible without interfering with backpack straps or hip belts. Consider a sturdy sheath with multiple attachment points for secure carry over rough terrain.

Can I carry a fixed blade knife concealed?

Concealed carry laws for fixed blade knives vary by location. Many jurisdictions require fixed blades to be carried openly. Always check your local regulations before attempting concealed carry.

How tight should my knife sheath be?

Your sheath should hold the knife firmly without requiring excessive force to draw. You should be able to turn the sheath upside down without the knife falling out, but still draw smoothly when needed.

Is neck carry safe?

Yes, when done properly with appropriate gear. Use a breakaway cord and a properly designed sheath with strong retention. Small fixed blades like the CRKT Minimalist® series are specifically designed for safe neck carry.

What's the most comfortable way to carry a fixed blade knife?

Belt carry at 4-5 o'clock position (behind your strong-side hip) typically offers the best comfort for most users. This position keeps the knife accessible while minimizing interference with natural movement.