How to Use a Karambit Knife

The use of a Karambit knife is an art that requires skill, efficiency, and much practice. Knowing how to properly grip this tool is essential to using it in a safe and secure manner. The nice thing about the Karambit knife is that its unique design gives the player a wide variation of grips, making it easy to find one they are comfortable with. Some users would consider this knife to be the most flexible in the world and we couldn't agree more!

Let's go over some grips that will teach you how to properly use this knife. When practicing, be sure to use a training knife to avoid injury. Until the blade never touches your skin, you're not ready to use a real Karambit knife. Let's begin!

The Reverse Grip

You will also hear this grip referred to as the combat grip, quick draw grip, or retracted reverse grip. The majority of Karambit users use the reverse grip because it increases stability, leverage, power, and control. The only downfall is that it's not as precise as other grips and the reach is limited compared to other variations.

They grip is best used in tactical and combat-related applications. You want to begin by positioning your right hand so that it's palm up. Make sure it's flat as you place the knife on your palm with the spine facing your body. The tip will be facing away from your body and the ring will be toward the right. Slide your index finger into the safety ring and close your fingers around the handle to create a firm grip.

The Forward Grip

This is also a very common variation, following the reverse grip. This is also known as the standard grip, utility grip, or work grip. It is mainly used for everyday chores that require extra control and precision. The strengths involve stability, leverage, and control while some weaknesses involve power, reach, and maneuverability.

To achieve this grip, place your hand so that your palm is up and flat. Then, place the Karambit knife on your palm with the spine facing towards your body and the ring towards the left and tip facing away from your body. Slide the pinky into the safety ring and close fingers around the handle to secure the Karambit in forwarding grip. Practice using this knife keep close attention to the proximity of each movement and your skin.

The Extended Grip

The final type of grip that we will share is the extended grip also known as the extended reverse grip or upward grip. This variation is not as commonly used as the previous two but you will come across it. It has many shortcomings involving precision, control, and stability, however, it's very useful in combat when extra reach, maneuverability, or leverage is required. You'll notice players use this grip to snatch something out of reach.

To achieve this grip, begin by holding it in a reverse grip rotating the blade toward the body and over your index finger (in a counter-clockwise fashion). The blade will naturally land on the backs of your fingers. The blade tip should be up.

It is very likely that you will stumble across other types of Karambit grips and variations. Keep in mind that there is no "wrong" way unless the grip becomes dangerous for the person holding the knife. We recommend starting off with these 3 grips as they are the most common. Also, be sure to always practice using a training Karambit. Until your blade never has contact with hand, wrist, or forearm, you're not ready to practice with a live Karambit.

We wish you the best of luck as you begin to utilize this knife and remember that efficient use of this knife requires precision, patience, and much practice!