Personal Melee Weapons in Military Operations: Do Soldiers Bring Their Own?

The question of whether soldiers can bring their own melee weapons into combat is a topic of considerable debate. Personal weapons like knives and batons have been long tradition in military units, but modern warfare emphasizes tactical and strategic considerations more than ever before.

The Role of Personal Weapons in Combat

Throughout my enlistment, I carried my own combat knife, which served me well in various operations. The only exception was during basic training, where the use of personal weapons was prohibited. Similarly, I was never issued or carried a bayonet or a Kabar. However, the availability and use of personal weapons often depend on the allowances of the specific unit.

Modern Combat Considerations

In modern combat scenarios, the utility of carrying a "combat knife" is highly dependent on the tactical environment. A Ka-bar or other fighting knife takes up valuable space on a soldier's equipment and can get in the way. The military provides alternatives such as Gerber multi-tools, which are highly functional for the tasks that require a knife, such as cutting paracord and opening Meals Ready to Eat (MREs).

Personal Knives and Equipment in Combat

Despite the limitations, many soldiers bring their own knives as they see fit. During my time in Iraq, nearly every soldier had a personal knife, ranging from large, impractical pieces to smaller, more manageable pocket folders. These knives can serve as useful tools in non-combat situations and as potential melee weapons in emergencies.

I carried both a replica Army WWII K-Bar and an ASP collapsible baton on my vest. I found the ASP baton particularly useful, as it provided a viable non-lethal option that potentially saved lives. The Army's offerings for non-lethal training and equipment are often lacking, and when faced with crowd control situations, lethal means are not always the appropriate solution. One instance where the ASP baton was crucial was during an encounter with rioting detainees. A few jabs and swings freed a bus driver who had been seized, though the bus itself was not saved.

Impact of Personal Weapons

The image of a soldier wielding a personal knife, often seen in movies, can be quite dramatic. However, the reality is that soldiers have to carry a lot of equipment. The average person has no idea how much an 11B (Specialist armorers and mechanics) has to carry. Soldiers in the field must carry everything they need for the duration of their time outside the wire. Water and ammunition are the two most critical items, and if they run out, the consequences can be deadly. Soldiers typically carry the bare minimum, and any extra "space" would be used for additional ammunition or water.

The importance of a Leatherman multi-tool is recognized, as it serves multiple functions and can be carried without the risk of taking up too much space. It is a versatile tool that can handle a wide range of tasks, from opening cans to cutting rope.

Conclusion

The decision to bring personal melee weapons into combat is a complex one. While they can serve useful purposes, modern military operations prioritize functionality and space efficiency. Understanding the practicalities and limitations of such weapons is crucial for any soldier.