Re: Knife suggestions
ok, first, forgive my spelling, i know its not great. second, this is my first post here, so please go easy.
lets face it. The biggest factor in dictating what kind of knife your going to carry is probably cost, then thickness was stated as a large concrn for you, followed by effectiveness.
that being said, i dont think you would post this question about a specific situation (dog attack), nhor would you post it without cause. So in my humble opion, might i suggest the OUTSTANDING Benchmade Osborne 940
http://www.benchmade.com/products/940
Let me say first that this is NOT a cheep knife ($205), nor is it and auto, or a spring assist. but that may be useful in that it cooperates with most carry laws. It is how ever an extreamly fast knife to open, and close. its thin (.41") has a 4.4" blade (also cooperating with most carry laws), has a very secure and strong locking mechanism (AXIS), and an excellent sharp steel (154CM)
I have personally used and sharpened this knife before, altho i dont carry it now. I've opted for the Benchmade Griptillian series, altho its not the same knife (griptillian is a bit "fatter" at .63") they both use the same steel, and locking mechanism. I can say from extensive personal experience that they are RAZOR sharp, top of the line knives that can take quite a bit of abuse. I treat my blades like i do my weapons, well taken care of, but not at all babied. When i buy something i use it to its full potential.
I also belive in a certian philosophy when using a knife, if i were going to stab something (i.e. dog, or person) in a defensive situation, i could just use a chisle, a screwdriver, a pointy stick or anything else. So, if thats the plan and the mentality, why spend money on a knife? But keep in mind to, when one person stabs another person to death, they stab them a hundred times. Why? because on stab number 99, the victim was still moving. This doesnt translate well to personal defense. But a knife is a cutting tool, and should be used as one. it only takes one or two well places slashes to imobilize, nuetralize, and not nessicarily kill, any living creature. When looking at it this way, suddenly as sharp knife becomes important. at least to me.
I've owned Kershaw's, and ColdSteel mainly. Serving in the Airforce i've been exposed to MANY other peoples knives as i've gained a bit of a reputaion for sharpening. I have experience with SOG's, CRKT's, Buck's, and a few others. Thus far, I stand by Benchmade and its my carry knife of choice based on edge retention, design, durability and feel in hand.
Another company that gets very high marks is Spiderco, altho my experience with them is very limited.
All in all, Benchmade is expensive, no doubt. but you get what you pay for, especially in a knife. And when it comes down to it, whats the price of Security to you.
I hope this is helpful. Best of luck
P.S. Disreguard my privious post please. TY...