As some one that has tried full contact stick work and knife ( blunt aluminum and shock knives) work I can say this:
Grappling a guy with a knife is a VERY good idea, control the blade arm, it will keep you from getting stabbed.
Drawing a blade is NOT easy when the other guy is tying you up or punching you in the face, even with emerson "wave" knives ( I know because I have tried it).
The rule of thumb is:
Neutralize and THEN draw.
Great H2H work leads to good fighting with a weapon.
Sticks are different of course, but still pretty bad, especially ASP's or pipes.
Again, close the distance, get in "under" the line of fire, control the weapon arm, take out the opponent.
If you guys really want so good advice on this, ask Dale.
STAB, RED ZONE and DBMA are of course the top level in these things.
Psalms 144:1
Praise be my Lord my Rock,
He trains my hands for war, my fingers for battle !