self defense

Colonel Blades LowVz kit

Carrying concealed can be impractical or uncomfortable. Perhaps you are happy with your appendix carry holster when you are standing up, however, when you have to sit for a few hours it will drive you crazy. Concealing a sidearm is not always an option; some of us have jobs that don’t allow it or perhaps […]

Slashing versus stabbing, knife tactics and their relevance

In combat marksmanship, shot placement is incredibly important and more often than not it is the determining factor in lethality. No matter the caliber of bullet or model of firearm, the location on the body where the round strikes determine how much damage is done with the exception of scenario-modifying circumstances. It is the same […]

Why Traditional Martial Arts Are Not Designed for Modern Self-Defense

I have studied traditional martial arts for the last 42 years; I started training in 1974. Unfortunately, however, I found them to be ineffective most of the time once I started my professional security and law enforcement career in 1988. Please do not misunderstand my position; I love and still teach traditional martial arts every […]

That’s What She Said: Close range self-defense

Long before I was a member of the team here at SOFREP, I was a Crate Club member. I love gear. I love outdoorsy gear, shooting gear, fitness gear, and all the fun extras that our team puts together for our members. You’ve heard from the guys. Now it’s time to get the female perspective. […]

Safariland 537 Holster | Final Review

Thank you, Safariland. That’s the big summary from my time with the 537 open top concealment holster. It is the answer to a number of my complaints from other holsters. My initial impressions can be read here. Having been able to get some range time with this unit recently, I have more confidence than ever […]

Crate Club Neck Knife – A Discrete Slasher

Maybe it’s just me, but the tactical world and tactical industry are starting to trend towards discrete and concealed carry. I’m in no way against this, in fact, I rather enjoy it. It’s fascinating to see the industry change and evolve into one that’s more friendly to concealed carry and civilian carry. Crate Club is […]

What is your Self-Defense Protocol?

What is your self-defense protocol when you leave your house? Are you prepared to react in low light or dark conditions? What do you carry on your person to aid in your defense? These are questions everyone should be asking themselves, especially with all the violence we’ve seen happen around the world. These personal defense […]

TOPS Unveils Heavy Duty I Stick Push Dagger

*Photo courtesy of Knife News TOPS is debuting the I Stick, an overbuilt push knife for those in need of a high-impact self-defense tool. The new tactical knife emphasizes weight and bulk for maximum power. TOPS embraced heavy duty destruction tools this year. Releases like El Chete and the Missile Strike emphasize heft and power. The I Stick embodies this […]

Civilian Concealable Armor for under $200

The body armor industry has really exploded this year. In a short period of time, we’ve seen companies coming forward to meet the needs of civilians. Companies that realize this are producing armor that’s thinner, lighter, more capable and most importantly more affordable. I’ve started a project here at the Loadout Room to bring forward […]

Spyderco Knives P’kal and Training Blade

Spyderco produces an array of knives for just about every occasion. There is your smaller EDC folding knife that is pretty common among first responders and Military, to even your larger fixed blades that Spyderco enthusiasts love to carry. Personally, I think Spyderco has found their niche with the smaller EDC folding knives. One knife […]