The Martialist: The Magazine For Those Who Fight Unfairly

“Stay ‘unreasonable.’  If you
don’t like the solutions [available to you], come up with your
own.” 
Dan Webre

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Copyright © 2003-2004 Phil Elmore, all rights
reserved.

Shawn’s Tactical Disposable Drawpoint Package

A Product Review by Phil Elmore

Shawn Herman of Shawn’s Tactical Specialty doesn’t screw around.  His
Disposable Drawpoint Package (DDP) is, according to his website, the product
of a conceptual discussion with famed reverse-grip knife-fighting instructor
James Keating. 
In a market crowded with pricey, over-engineered tactical blades trying to be
too many things to too many people, Shawn’s DDP does one thing and does it
well.  Specifically, the DDP is an inexpensive reverse-grip rig for
expedient self-defense.

There is no sidestepping the issue:  this is a cheap
shank with which to stick an attacker.  Out of the box, the rig is
configured for right-hand reverse grip draw to facilitate a quick, powerful
pull-and-stab move.  Exposed portions of the cord-wrapped handle are
painted black to make the package less obvious.  The sheath loop is
reversible for right- or left-hand use, while the Kydex sheath is intended
primarily for IWB applications.  By removing the loop and adding a cord
or chain, the DDP could become a neck knife or static-cord utility blade.

The IWB loop is made of flexible, synthetic rubber, which
gives it a pretty good “grab” on the belt.  Over the long term the
material might split, I suppose, but the entire package is very affordable and
seems tough enough for extended carry.  The snap closure on the loop
(which makes the rig easy to remove and to don without unbuckling one’s belt)
is one of those “Pull the Dot” security buttons.  It can only be released
by pulling from one side of the snap, making accidental release less likely.

The Kydex sheath shows good workmanship and is well fitted
to the knife.  Drawing the blade produces the usual rasp one expects of
metal on Kydex.  There are no extra bells or whistles.  The overall
carry package is therefore nice and slim, unencumbered with retaining straps
or other hindrances.

The knife itself is made in China.  I imagine Shawn
buys them in quantity, paints the tangs black, and wraps the handles in
paracord.  The wrap is tight, even, and nicely executed, with rough,
melted knots at either end.  The handle paint shows wear and rubs off
easily with use, but Shawn acknowledges this.  The knife is intended
simply to work — not to look pretty.

My sample was shipped to me sharp enough to catch on my
fingernail.  It tapers to a slim stabbing point.  While not a
needle, it is more than sharp enough to penetrate clothing (and the attacker
within it).

The butt of the knife is a bit more pointed than I would
prefer, but does not completely rule out “capping” with the thumb.  It
could be used for blunt strikes (though the whole concept of the DDP involves
using the sharp end in a reverse grip).

The real selling point for the DDP, aside from its practical
aspects, is its price.  Shawn actually states on his website that the
listed price is not a typo.  Anyone can afford this package. 
Replacement knives (sold without the Kydex sheath) are even cheaper.

I had not heard of Shawn Herman before the DDP was brought
to my attention, but I’m now a decided fan of his work.  This is a man
who understands pragmatic, armed self-defense.

If that’s not martialism,
I don’t know what is.