Re: knives and hiking

I'm surprised, in a way, that this discussion has gotten so many responses. But then, I guess I have to add one more to the list of items so personal that every one has a strong personal preference - boots, packs, tents, headgear (whoops, shouldn't have put that in - there will now be a hundred post argument on headgear), cameras, backpack stoves, ...

I do have to disagree slightly with kutenay - yeah, if attacked by a critter bent on killing, maiming, and/or eating me, I would rather have some sort of weapon to defend myself. But I would like for it to be effective, which brings the basic requirement of having training and experience in using the weapon in such a situation. I would contend that the vast majority of people carrying knives in the belief that they would be effective in defending themselves against an enraged bear or hungry puma are just deluding themselves. It may be that Shelton recommends carrying weaponry, but kutenay says he is

Quote:

a respected bear/Cougar defence instructor here in B.C. and author of three well-known and widely read/used books on this topic

Which means he has spent time training, studying animal behavior, and maybe doing some practice. I suspect that the number of those carrying Bowie knives in "tricky synthetic sheaths affixed to the offside pack strap, upside down of course, for that "tactical" draw" who would actually be able to get the knife out and use it effectively in a real bear or lion attack is miniscule, and that the number who succeed is even smaller. And those who believe a folding pocket knife will provide any protection against a grizzly, well, ... Do you really know where the vital spots to use the knife are on a 500 pound angry bear (or a 100 pound puma), and can you get the knife out, maneuver yourself around this angry mass of claws and teeth, and get the knife into the vital area without dropping it in the process? Even having a large bore firearm does no good unless you have been trained in its use and practice a lot - do you know where the slug has to be placed to stop the big, enraged furry guy, and can you do it consistently in a dynamic situation?

It's just like the people who carry electronic widgets, expecting that if they get in trouble, help will arrive instantly. In many cases, the widget, big knife, or even the bag with the 10 Essentials just promotes hubris. It ain't the things you carry with you - it's the knowledge, experience, judgment, and preparation that come before you ever get out in the woods and hills. All the hardware in the world does you no good unless you really know how to use it effectively. Yet too many get out there with "things" and believe they are invulnerable.

I am NOT saying "do not bother carrying" appropriate gear. I AM saying get trained, get the knowledge, work with an experienced mentor, develop the judgment, and be prepared. Don't just get, say, a big knife and head into the hills in the belief that this is a magic talisman that will save you automatically.