Benchmade SOCP Dagger: A Tactical Essential for Every Mission
There is a never-ending list of fixed blades that people carry on their kit. Everything from big, beefy blades to a more slim-lined minimalist knife as a “last resort.” The fixed blade that people carry tends to be mission-specific in the sense that depending on what they are doing or where they are going, the knife may need to be deployed. So, where does the Benchmade SOCP Dagger fit into the equation?
I’ll be honest… I see people dogging on the blade, and part of me understands why, and another part of me sides with the fact that it’s a slim and compact defensive fixed blade. Sure, the Benchmade SOCP Dagger may not be for everyone (especially if your mission deals with being in the woods and needing to use your fixed blade for heavy-use tasks). I totally get that. But for me, the Benchmade SOCP Dagger serves a very specific purpose.
In this article, we are going to dive deeper into the Benchmade SOCP Dagger, designed by the great Greg Thompson (known to be one of the best instructors of close-quarters fighting for the US Special Forces), and get a better understanding of what this fixed blade knife has to offer and whether or not it may be the right tool to suit your needs and mission.
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SOCP, in the name of this blade, stands for Special Operations Combatives Program.
If you’re already sold on the idea of this fixed blade, check out Amazon, as they seem to always have the best price on this blade.
Disclaimer: This article is based on my opinion and my opinion only. Benchmade did not provide me with this knife, nor did they pay me to write this article/review. I spent my own hard-earned money on this blade.
Table of contents
Details and Specs of the Benchmade SOCP Dagger
The specs below are from the Benchmade website to ensure everything is accurate.
| Blade Steel | 440C stainless steel (58-60HRC) |
| Blade Length | 3.22 inches |
| Blade Style | Double-edged dagger |
| Blade Thickness | 0.175 inches |
| Blade Finish | Cerakote |
| Handle Type | Black-coated, single-piece of stainless steel with a finger ring for added retention. |
| Handle Length | 4.03 inches |
| Handle Thickness | 0.175 inches |
| Knife Weight | 2.20 ounces |
| Overall Knife Length | 7.25 inches |
| Sheath | Yes |
| Clip | DLC coated, tip-down, deep carry |
| Clip Position | Tip-down |
| Use | Double-edged blade allows quick & deep cuts for defensive purposes or everyday cutting tasks. |
Forged from premium stainless steel, this blade not only holds a razor-sharp edge but remains unfazed under duress. The skeletonized handle, a work of ergonomic artistry, contributes not just to aesthetics but to the dagger’s feather-light weight. Thanks to its slim profile and weight, you won’t even realize you have it when worn as part of your EDC or added to kit.
Additional Key Features
- Discreet Dominance: The SOCP Dagger’s compact design and lightweight construction make it an ideal companion for concealed carry enthusiasts. Its discreet profile conceals a world of tactical prowess, ensuring you’re always ready without compromising comfort.
- Spear-Point Versatility: This dagger’s spear-point blade isn’t just a stylistic choice; it’s a versatile workhorse. From precise piercing tasks to intricate cutting maneuvers, the Benchmade SOCP Dagger excels in various applications, earning its place as an indispensable tool for tactical professionals.
- Enduring Durability: Crafted from robust materials, the Benchmade SOCP Dagger is more than a one-time investment — it’s a commitment to enduring reliability. Built to withstand the rigors of tactical use, it’s a blade that thrives under pressure.
- Grip and Maneuverability: Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the skeletonized handle is a deliberate choice for enhanced grip and maneuverability. A secure hold on your dagger can be the difference between success and uncertainty in high-stakes scenarios.
- Carry Options Galore: The Benchmade SOCP Dagger, a versatile companion, adapts to your preferred carry style. Whether nestled on your belt, snug in your boot, or securely housed in its accompanying sheath, this dagger is designed with multi-platform carry options in mind.
Benchmade SOCP Dagger Benefits
The Benchmade SOCP Dagger boasts several benefits that contribute to its reputation as a great piece of kit. Below is a breakdown and overview of its key benefits:
- Compact Design: The SOCP Dagger’s compact dimensions make it an excellent choice for concealed carry and everyday carry. Its unobtrusive profile ensures it can be comfortably carried without drawing unnecessary attention.
- Versatile Blade: The spear-point blade design offers versatility in application. Whether for precise piercing or detailed cutting tasks, the Benchmade SOCP Dagger excels in a range of scenarios, making it a multi-functional tool.
- Lightweight Construction: Weighing in at a mere 2.20 ounces, the dagger is feather-light, enhancing its portability without compromising on strength. This feature is particularly beneficial for those who require agility and maneuverability in various situations.
- Enhanced Grip: The skeletonized handle isn’t just aesthetically pleasing; it’s designed to provide a secure grip and optimal control. In high-stakes situations, a reliable grip can be crucial for effective use and self-defense.
- Concealed Carry Options: The dagger is designed for various carry options, including belt carry, boot carry, or using the provided sheath. This adaptability ensures that you can carry the Benchmade SOCP Dagger in a way that suits your preferences and situational needs.
- Durability and Construction: Crafted from premium materials, the SOCP Dagger is built to withstand the rigors of tactical use. Its robust construction ensures durability, making it a reliable tool in challenging environments.
- Tactical Training Potential: The SOCP Dagger’s design is conducive to tactical training scenarios. Its realistic features make it a valuable tool for individuals engaged in self-defense and martial arts training. For training purposes, I would highly suggest you get the training knife.
- Quick Deployment: The dagger features a design that allows for swift and efficient deployment, ensuring that it can be rapidly accessed in critical situations. The ease of deployment is a critical factor in its effectiveness as a tactical tool.
- Multi-Platform Carry: With various carry options, you can choose the most comfortable and accessible way to carry the Benchmade SOCP Dagger based on your preferences and attire, adding to its versatility as an everyday tool.
- Premium Brand Quality: Benchmade, as a brand, is synonymous with quality and craftsmanship. The SOCP Dagger upholds the brand’s reputation for producing high-performance blades, backed by precision engineering and attention to detail.
Who is This Blade For?
The Benchmade SOCP Dagger isn’t a blade for the faint of heart; it’s crafted for those who seek precision, versatility, and unyielding reliability. It resonates with:
- Military and Law Enforcement Professionals: The Benchmade SOCP Dagger is an excellent blade for those navigating high-stakes scenarios. Its tactical design and robust construction make it a trustworthy tool for self-defense and close-quarters combat.
- Concealed Carry Aficionados: For individuals prioritizing personal protection, the SOCP Dagger’s compact size and discreet profile make it a favorite. Its lightweight nature ensures it won’t encumber you during daily activities.
- Tactical Training Grounds: Tactical trainers find the SOCP Dagger to be a valuable and functional tool for practicing various defensive techniques. Mimicking real-world scenarios, this dagger provides a valuable training asset.
Can You Legally Carry a Fixed Blade?
First off, I don’t know where you live, and I don’t know what your specific laws are regarding knives and fixed blades.
With that being said and out of the way, navigating your way through the legal landscape surrounding the carry of fixed blades, such as the Benchmade SOCP Dagger, is a critical aspect for potential buyers.
Legal considerations vary from state to state, and understanding the laws and regulations is important. The blade length and intent behind carrying such a tool can influence its legality in many jurisdictions.
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Some areas may have stringent restrictions on concealed carry, emphasizing the importance of using the provided sheath and carrying the dagger openly. Additionally, local laws might govern the places where carrying such blades is NOT allowed, such as schools, government buildings, or public events.
Look up and know your local laws. By shedding light on these legal nuances of carrying a fixed blade (or knife in general), you can make better-informed decisions on what you want and can purchase, ensuring that your newest addition to your collection aligns with local regulations and contributing to a responsible and law-abiding knife ownership culture.
How Do I Use and Carry the Benchmade SOCP Dagger?
There are several ways that I carry the Benchmade SOCP Dagger.
The first way is simply putting it in my pocket. It fits in nicely with just the ring showing, which allows me a point of reference when deploying the blade.
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Being that I typically have a folder in my pocket, I tend to find myself attaching the Benchmade SOCP Dagger to my bent and running it inside the waistband. It’s more of a last-ditch option or if I need someone to get off of me if we find ourselves on the ground grappling.
But the way I use this blade the most is on my kit. No, I’m not walking around town or my house wearing body armor, but rather an off-body bag (I have a whole article here that I highly recommend you check out that thoroughly goes over this option).
I have a Benchmade SOCP Dagger on both of my Vertx bags that I wear cross-body, and it just so happens that the bags I’m using are specific to the SOCP Dagger.
The two bags I use and recommend are:
Both of these off-body bags contain pre-cut slots in the back of the bag (the side that rests against your body), where the SOCP Dagger fits perfectly for easy access and great concealment.
The Benchmade SOCP Dagger is a Great Piece of Kit
In the cacophony of tactical daggers, the Benchmade SOCP Dagger takes the lead, orchestrating both precision and versatility. Its enduring reliability makes it a great blade for military professionals, law enforcement officers, and concealed carry enthusiasts alike. There has been a huge push and craze of people carrying fixed blades for EDC, and honestly, I dig it. I think it’s a worthy trend if you find the perfect fixed blade to conceal.
As you unsheathe the SOCP Dagger, you’re not just holding a blade — you’re wielding a tactical maestro designed for excellence in every thrust when needed in a defensive situation or where you’re down to your last resort.
Prepare to redefine your tactical arsenal and kit with the Benchmade SOCP Dagger, where each movement echoes the precision of a well-mastered symphony.
Related Article: Benchmade Osborne — The Perfect Balance of Performance & Style
If you want to grab a Benchmade SOCP Dagger for yourself, Amazon seems to have the best price on it, and I always recommend you grab the trainer knife as well so that you can practice with something you’re looking to carry and potentially use.
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