A New Kite Knife Solution/Creation

[Tim Dunklee]

After reading a few kitemare stories, I decided to get myself a good kite knife. The more I researched the subject, the more I realized that the Harness knives don't seem to fit the bill very well. After a recommendation from an NW Kite Thread, I ordered the "5 Hook Safety Cutter" from Benchmade. This is the same hook knife that many law enforcement officers and EMTs use in emergency situations. It is also made out of very good stainless steel so it shouldn't rust/corrode during usual kiting use. I was very impressed with the quality of the knife and some testing has been done by NW Kiters who say it can cut through multiple lines like butter.

The challenge came when I wanted a secure and low-profile way to mount it to my gear. Luckily, the knife came with a little cloth pouch that could easily be strung onto my harness straps. The only problem with the pouch is that if the velcro cover was to come loose during a hard crash, the knife could easily fall out. To remedy this my dad and I put on our thinking caps. Our solution was to use adhesive velcro on the back of knife which holds it in place even if the outer flap comes open. To aid in easy access during an emergency situation we also attached an old Slingshot 0'Sh*& handle which you can yank to pull out the knife with one swift move. I think it came together really well, and hopefully all the velcro works well in the water. Let me know at the beach next time if you want to check it out.

[Stefan]

That is a good idea using the osr velcro. My knife is a Dakine hook knife, $10. I might order one like yours too and make the same attachment, and have two with me.

[JERRY]

Thanks guys, got one on order.

[Geo]

Nice post. I had a safety knife which lasted through exactly one session in its stock sheath before it fell out. Still knifeless.

[Tim Dunklee]

Thanks guys! Let's hope the knife is never needed...