What is the safety zone for edged weapons?

The safety zone for edged weapons is identified as 20-25 feet because this distance helps to provide a tactical buffer that can be critical in situations involving potentially lethal weapons such as knives or other sharp implements.

Understanding the dynamics of edged weapons is essential; they can close the distance very rapidly compared to firearms, which allows for a brief window of reaction time for someone who may be in a threatening situation. The 20-25 feet range is a guideline that allows for the possibility of de-escalation, escape, or reassessment of the situation while keeping a reasonable buffer to avoid immediate danger.

This distance is derived from both physical reaction times and the average distance that an assailant with an edged weapon can cover quickly. By maintaining this distance, individuals can reduce their risk of being attacked, giving them time to respond appropriately, whether that’s retreating or preparing to counter. It recognizes that situations can escalate quickly, and the suggested distance provides an opportunity for safety before the threat becomes imminent.