I took several classes in knife fighting and “edged weapons,” as Gunsite calls it. However, the more training I underwent, the more I realized it wasn’t for me. I felt there were way too many disadvantages and, quite simply, few advantages. However, I enjoyed learning from my instructors, they were great, and their intentions were honorable. Nonetheless, you should evaluate a self-defense weapon based on whether it allows you to accomplish your mission. If it doesn’t feel right after giving the training a chance, or you feel it will likely compromise your mission, don’t use it no matter what anyone says.
Also, be aware that there are “knife people” who behave as if they are members of a secret cult. Self-defense revolves around the knife and only the knife. They can talk about knives, knife shapes, unique handles, special blades, and so forth for hours. Unfortunately, you’ll meet some of them that seem a bit too fascinated with the knife, and honestly, it is a bit creepy.
In my analysis, every knife fighting article should be subtitled: Death or Prison. As an ordinary civilian, I felt that was the choice I was making using the knife as a self-defense weapon. Given that stark choice, looking at other defensive weapons made sense to me. Your analysis may differ from mine. I would elaborate more on my experiences, but someone who has experienced a lot of knife violence in real life already has. There is no better critique of the knife as a self-defense weapon than what can be found in Varg Freeborn’s book Violence of the Mind book. Get a copy.