It’s easy to carry a fixed-blade knife during the hunt by clipping it to your pack or gear. But knowing how to carry a fixed-blade knife as a civilian is trickier, especially if you like to conceal your blade.
All MKC’s EDC knives come with protective features that keep your blade safe, secure, and hidden. Plus, we stock unique and modular carry options for every use case. If the default option doesn’t work for you, we probably have an alternative that will.
How to Carry a Fixed-Blade Knife With an EDC Clip
MKC manufactures five EDC clips:
- Kydex Belt Clip (standard)
- Discreet Carry Pocket Clip
- MKC Ulticlip
- Tek-Lock Belt Attachment
- Molle-Lok Attachment
Each clip keeps your EDC discreet, organized, and safe, whether you’re on the hunt or on the town.
Our standard Kydex Belt Clip, which comes with every MKC knife except our culinary knives, is perfect for belts, backpack shoulder straps, and bino harnesses. It’s our do-it-all option that most people get tons of use out of — that’s why it’s our standard clip.
Our Discreet Pocket Carry Clip is perfect for concealed pocket carry on our smaller knives. It works best when paired with the Mini-Speedgoat, Speedgoat 2.0, and Blackfoot 2.0. It lets you carry your small EDC securely in a pocket instead of on your belt or waistband. It’s great for use in a backpack or carrier pocket, too.
We built the MKC Ulticlip for beltless carry. It has an ultra-slim profile and a dual-slot mounting bracket for flexibility. It’s great for those who need a slim, go-anywhere option more functional than the Kydex clip.
The Tek-Lok belt attachment system is best for those who carry on the hip. It accommodates 1.25″–2.25″ belts and almost any mounting position.
Finally, the Molle-Lok is the modular solution for plate carriers, mag pouches, and anyone who likes to be ready for the unknown. Some EDC carriers want their knives closer than at the hip; when that happens, the Molle-Lok comes to the rescue.
Wondering how to carry a fixed-blade knife? There’s no right or wrong way — it comes down to preference. As long as your knife is safe, accessible, and, if you prefer, concealed, you’re carrying it properly.
That’s why we offer different clip options. The best solution for you depends on your knife, gear, and needs.
How to Carry a Fixed-Blade Knife: Mistakes and Misconceptions
As fixed-blade knife experts, we’re here to correct misconceptions and mistakes about how to carry a fixed-blade knife. The most common misconception is that you need a folding knife to pocket carry.
We designed the Discreet Pocket Carry Clip to debunk this misconception. Even a fixed-blade knife stays safe and discreet in your pocket if it’s the right weight and profile.
Many of our blades are paracord-wrapped for utility and weight reduction, and the tangs underneath stay thin. These thin blades are hardly noticeable on the hip and in the pocket because they sit so close to the body.
Meanwhile, the most common EDC mistake we see is inadequate sheathing. Nothing less than a custom-molded sheath or holster will suffice for a fixed-blade knife. If your EDC comes free, it could hurt you or a bystander. That’s not how to carry a fixed-blade knife safely.
Appropriate retention also ensures knife safety. Whether you’re pursuing wild game, practicing combat drills, or hiking through the mountains, your EDC needs to be secure.
MKC’s custom-molded, adjustable Kydex holsters have excellent retention and are easy to adjust — and our line of flexible clip options are great add-ons.
How to Care for a Fixed-Blade Knife
Inspect your EDC gear regularly. Whether fixed or folding, all hardware loosens over time. Checking your gear’s stability keeps it (and you) safe.
It’s also important to source high-quality gear. Careful maintenance helps decent gear last a while, but it helps good gear (gear with adjustable retention and a ridged hold) last a lifetime.
As long as you source and care for quality gear, it’ll treat you well. Here at MKC, our goal is for your knives to literally last generations — hence our MKC Generations® program. With quality gear and custom-carrying solutions behind you, knowing how to carry a fixed-blade knife is second nature.
by Josh Smith, Master Bladesmith and Founder of Montana Knife Company
