Definite yes from me, I had my arm wrapped in the lines of a loose kite that was looping out of control after a kite rescue went wrong, my kite was still in the air but I was able to pull the knife out of the pouch that I have attached to the straps on the front of my harness and cut myself free.
I may have been able to get out of it some other way but as it was well after sunset and a km or so out at sea I wasn't about to mess around.
Any type of hook knife from any kite shop will do, I think mine is a Da Kine and with the lines under tension like they were it cut through no worries at all.

Big eeeZeee said...

all kiters should have one. Pretty sure all new harnesses come with a hook knife

mine didn't, and it's a top shelf harness too.
I think it's wise to carry a knife. I've never needed one, but you never know when you might need one

This story has inspired me to sew a new and more easily accessible knife pocket on the front of my harness. Reaching round the back for a knife is only slightly easier than reaching round the back to release your leash.

Incidentally, I plan on using an old bit of neoprene from a dead wetsuit. Old bits of neoprene come in handy for all sorts of stuff.

hey reli does the pouch connect easily to your harness or do you need a little pocket to put it in?

As for the rust, an occasional spray of fish oil should prevent that.

got myself a ion apex harness, hook knife cleverly postioned in the spreader bar for easy access never kite in waves without a knife

All abovr is great...

If doing freestyle, the better you get, the less the need...
In the surf its essential, just in case.
Ive used it once on someone elses kite, in 8 years... Its like carrying a swiss army knife, it comes in handy......

Might also come in handy if you accidently have to cut the lines of the pr,.,s who surf in front of the SLSC'S ETC.
Never needed one yet but I have thought about it.
With me if **** happens ill be the one too tell the story.aaaaaaggggggggggggghhh

Addikt said...

I have two one in my harness and one in my pocket..............

I think they are talking about hook knives not hunting knives addikt

that's not a knife

this is a knife

sorry couldn't resist

For those with knives make sure you cover the blades with vaseline and check them regularly.

Otherwise they will rust and be useless when you need them

Yes - I've unfortunalty had to use mine once as well.

TurtleHunter said...

Addikt said...

I have two one in my harness and one in my pocket..............

I think they are talking about hook knives not hunting knives addikt

Always sharp too !

Addikt said...

TurtleHunter said...

Addikt said...

I have two one in my harness and one in my pocket..............

I think they are talking about hook knives not hunting knives addikt

Always sharp too !

Why are you kiting with what looks like a dildo Addikt?

Obviously, you can't go kiting without your light sabre

Got a Dakine one but it came off first sesh!

Good idea to have one though and will get a replacement asap.

Ta for the reminder