Question

BRING A KNIFE TO A GUNFIGHT

Accepted Answer

To come poorly prepared or equipped for some task, goal, competition, or confrontation. Often used in the negative as a forewarning or piece of advice.

Make sure you have researched your position thoroughly and comprehensively before the debate. You don't want to bring a knife to a gunfight.

If you haven't studied law, representing yourself in court is like bringing a knife to a gunfight.

Front	BRING A KNIFE TO A GUNFIGHT
Back	To come poorly prepared or equipped for some task, goal, competition, or confrontation. Often used in the negative as a forewarning or piece of advice. Make sure you have researched your position thoroughly and comprehensively before the debate. You don't want to bring a knife to a gunfight. If you haven't studied law, representing yourself in court is like bringing a knife to a gunfight.