Introduction

Hand-to-hand combat is not a sport; it is designed for emergencies when your life may depend on the ability to outwit or overcome an armed enemy, perhaps with only your two hands. These tactics of defense and counter attack combine the essential elements of Jiu-jutsu, Savate, American wrestling, and plain rough and tumble fighting.

Basic Body Stance. The basic body stance is one of easy balance, deceptively relaxed but yet actually always ready for quick counter attacks. Arms are held lightly across the chest or spread with hands on the hips. From either position, they are easily shifted to meet the assailants lead. Feet are slightly spread and firmly balanced. They must never be crossed but always ready to shift or pivot according to the character of the maneuver.

Hand Attacks. Blows are delivered with the knife-edge of the hand to the points of greatest vulnerability. These primary vital points include:

Side of neck, midway between chin and ear, just under jaw bone
Larynx or Adam's apple
Bridge of nose
Upper lip, just below nose
Back of neck at the junction of the neck and spine
Kidneys at lower edge of ribs
Solar plexus
Groin

Attack Strategy Using the Feet. Stamp on the opponents arch. Deliver a sharp blow to the shin or groin. The knee is also a weapon of counter attack for striking into the groin, to the face when opponent is bent over, or into the solar plexus. (Notice that no kicks are mentioned.)

Basic Hand Holds And Leverages. Basic hand holds and leverages are designed to take greatest advantage of leverage on joints and bones.

Wrist Lock. Holding the opponent's wrist in both hands, the thumbs exert pressure on the back of the hands. This forces the wrist joint backward and upward at the same time.
Reverse Wrist Lock. The opponents hand is twisted inward. As the elbow rises, additional leverage is applied at the elbow. Any resistance on the part of the opponent only increases the pain and the effectiveness of the hold. Twisting the hand inward imposes terrific leverage on the wrist. Pressure against the wrist also locks the elbow.
Hammer Lock. With additional downward pressure for forcing the wrist joint.
Basic Head Lock. One arm is placed around the opponent's neck and locked onto the other arm. The other hand is used to control the opponents head. Any attempt to escape only tightens the hold.
Back Leverage. With one hand holding the opponent's belt, the other hand applies pressure to the throat. As an alternative, use one arm around the waist and exert leverage at the chin.

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Subtopics: NEXT | Preface Introduction Breaking Grips and Holds Grappling Skills Kick Defense Club Defense Knife Defense Firearm Defense Handling Prisoners Conclusions

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