So when buying a folding knife do any of you look at a utility knife different than a self defense knife? Would you use a knife chosen for self defense as a utility knife on a daily basis?

EDC vs SD knives
 

I don't. My utility knife is used for just about anything whereas my SD knife is only there for self defense.

Pedro, I guess it's an each there own thing with the Bowie. I've always liked long knives. I also see a Bowie like most consider a shotgun. The distinctive sound of racking a shotgun scares some people. The Bowie being pulled could do the same.

I use my ZT 350 knife to process food at work and although it looks like a hunk of Steel slicing little tomatoes, it's pretty effective at that. And of course it can be put to use in a defensive role in no time. I also carry a Victorinox Pioneer SAK with multi-tool purposes in mind.

Absolutely right Andy, I never meant to disparage you for carrying your Bowie knife. I (ME) just simply don't understand the practice of doing so in an urban set up. And although I've heard to the contrary, I can't possibly imagine it's comfortable to have a 10-inch blade stuff down the side of your pants. I know it comes down to the sheath and I know Panther does a terrific job and this area.

That being said, I've seen your Covington's and Bagwell's and they are stunning, sharp as a scalpel, and truly masterpieces in their own right.

My folder is for utility only. For self defense all my blades are fixed blades. I carry two in addition to the folder. I also carry a Swiss Army in my pocket.
Now, I'll address below.

Very good thought process! And everyone must put themselves through this thought especially more so depending what state you live in.
Now on that note, my knives are defensive and I can articulate if I had to use them. For example, I carry a straight blade on my support side. If someone grabs my gun and is trying to disarm me I can draw and cut, stab, and defend the attempt. I also carry another one in strong side appendix carry.
I've learned through training and experience that sometimes a fight ensues before it becomes a deadly force situation and if I'm in the thick of it and grabbed there are times when it's nearly impossible to draw. The knives are to get to my gun. If it stops the threat, even better.
I guess it helps that I've written and testified in this state in the use of force and know what prosecutors like and don't like and what they look for.

I know, Pedro. I didn't take your comments as disparagement. Next time I'm up, I'll let you carry the Covington and show you the difference. The Commodore sheath allows the knife to float so it moves with your body. Once you learn the draw, you can have the knife deployed as fast as a gun (you saw Brownie draw the Bagwell).

I would agree with you. If you are going to carry a knife for self defense, get training. Using a knife for defense is much different than using a gun. It requires a different mindset.

Two folders, both Spiderco Endura... 3 inches for utility and 4 for SD. A fix blade for SD on weak side, usually a spiderco street bowie...or something bigger. Days like these were utility can be needed for the fixed, leave the spiderco perrin home and take a more chunky knife.

Explanations? Pitor, isn't the same as explaning why you prefer 45 to 9 or 9 to 22 or an AR to a black powder one shot thingy... I carry a straight because it is more reliable in a fight than a folder. And a long one is better than a short blade. Don't believe that krap that size don't matter. :D

...from phone