Shawn Herman of Shawn's Tactical Specialty doesn't screw around.  His Disposable Drawpoint Package (DDP) is, according to his website, the product of a conceptual discussion with famed reverse-grip knife-fighting instructor James Keating.  In a market crowded with pricey, over-engineered tactical blades trying to be too many things to too many people, Shawn's DDP does one thing and does it well.  Specifically, the DDP is an inexpensive reverse-grip rig for expedient self-defense.

There is no sidestepping the issue:  this is a cheap shank with which to stick an attacker.  Out of the box, the rig is configured for right-hand reverse grip draw to facilitate a quick, powerful pull-and-stab move.  Exposed portions of the cord-wrapped handle are painted black to make the package less obvious.  The sheath loop is reversible for right- or left-hand use, while the Kydex sheath is intended primarily for IWB applications.  By removing the loop and adding a cord or chain, the DDP could become a neck knife or static-cord utility blade.

The IWB loop is made of flexible, synthetic rubber, which gives it a pretty good "grab" on the belt.  Over the long term the material might split, I suppose, but the entire package is very affordable and seems tough enough for extended carry.  The snap closure on the loop (which makes the rig easy to remove and to don without unbuckling one's belt) is one of those "Pull the Dot" security buttons.  It can only be released by pulling from one side of the snap, making accidental release less likely.

The Kydex sheath shows good workmanship and is well fitted to the knife.  Drawing the blade produces the usual rasp one expects of metal on Kydex.  There are no extra bells or whistles.  The overall carry package is therefore nice and slim, unencumbered with retaining straps or other hindrances.

The knife itself is made in China.  I imagine Shawn buys them in quantity, paints the tangs black, and wraps the handles in paracord.  The wrap is tight, even, and nicely executed, with rough, melted knots at either end.  The handle paint shows wear and rubs off easily with use, but Shawn acknowledges this.  The knife is intended simply to work -- not to look pretty.

My sample was shipped to me sharp enough to catch on my fingernail.  It tapers to a slim stabbing point.  While not a needle, it is more than sharp enough to penetrate clothing (and the attacker within it).

The butt of the knife is a bit more pointed than I would prefer, but does not completely rule out "capping" with the thumb.  It could be used for blunt strikes (though the whole concept of the DDP involves using the sharp end in a reverse grip).

The real selling point for the DDP, aside from its practical aspects, is its price.  Shawn actually states on his website that the listed price is not a typo.  Anyone can afford this package.  Replacement knives (sold without the Kydex sheath) are even cheaper.

I had not heard of Shawn Herman before the DDP was brought to my attention, but I'm now a decided fan of his work.  This is a man who understands pragmatic, armed self-defense.