Every September, National Preparedness Month serves as a reminder to take stock of your readiness plan, because when disaster strikes, seconds matter. From natural disasters and power outages to unforeseen emergencies, the unexpected isn’t a question of if, but when. Preparedness isn’t just for the backcountry or the battlefield—it’s for the commute, the campsite, the sidewalk, and the home.
At Benchmade, we believe readiness is a responsibility, not a reaction. Our tactical knives are designed to be more than tools—they’re trusted companions in the moments that count. This September, we’re joining the national conversation with a simple message: Stay ready.
A Mindset of Responsibility: Preparedness Isn’t Optional—It’s Essential
True readiness starts with mindset. It’s not driven by fear or paranoia, but by clarity and control—being equipped to handle what life throws your way. From building a go-bag to learning situational awareness, every decision you make before a crisis can shape the outcome.
Whether you’re in uniform or focused on everyday preparedness, having the right tools—and knowing how to use them—isn’t optional. It’s essential.
Greg Thompson & The Origins of SOCP®
The SOCP® line was born from real-world necessity. Greg Thompson—martial artist, designer, and founder of the Special Operations Combatives Program—spent decades training elite military and law enforcement in high-stakes self-defense. After witnessing firsthand the limitations of traditional knives in close-quarters combat, Greg partnered with Benchmade to develop a solution.
His approach was rooted in relevant design: every detail of the SOCP® dagger, from the finger ring to the slim, concealable sheath, serves a purpose. It’s a tool built for speed, retention, and seamless integration with firearms and hand-to-hand techniques. Trusted by special forces and law enforcement around the world, the SOCP® isn't just gear—it’s the result of a lifetime of problem-solving.
Explore More: Read Greg’s Story
Meet the Tool: SOCP® Dagger: Compact, Concealable, Ready for Anything
At the center is the SOCP® Dagger—a purpose-built, skeletonized fixed blade designed for rapid deployment in high-pressure situations. Developed with input from special operations personnel, the 176BK is built for low-profile carry and quick access.
Paired with proper training, this blade offers peace of mind in the most unpredictable scenarios. From professional operators to responsible civilians, it’s a tool built for those who refuse to be caught unprepared.
Training for the Unexpected: Skills Are Just as Important as Tools
In high-stress scenarios, the ability to respond with precision and confidence can mean the difference between chaos and control. That’s why training is just as critical as the tools themselves. With proper repetition, muscle memory takes over, enabling decisive action when seconds count. The SOCP® line was developed with this reality in mind—designed for intuitive deployment under pressure, even in close-quarters situations.
SOCP® founder Greg Thompson’s approach to readiness comes to life through educational video content and real-world training scenarios. From military operators to law enforcement professionals and prepared civilians, these tools and techniques are trusted by those who can’t afford hesitation.
Watch the SOCP® Training Series →
Don’t Wait to Prepare
Preparedness is not a hobby—it’s a habit. It’s the quiet confidence of knowing your knife is sharp, your plan is ready, and your mindset is calm. Benchmade tactical knives, like the SOCP® Dagger, are built with that purpose in mind: to help you meet the moment, whatever it brings.
This National Preparedness Month, take the time to reevaluate your readiness—at home, on the road, and in the wild. Because being ready isn’t just smart—it’s essential.