When to Fire

Counterattack Timing

In a counterattack, there are three times available for you to fire a technique. You may fire: before, during, or after your opponent fires.

• Before. As your opponent mentally and physically prepares to attack, you preemptively fire your technique
• During. As your opponent fires at you, you simultaneously fire at the opponent. This may be a mutual slaying (aiuchi), a situation in which you both score. In this case, you try to use body position to minimize the effectiveness of the opponent’s strike while maximizing the effectiveness your strike. You may be able to maneuver so that the opponent’s strike misses you completely.
• After. As your opponent fires at you, you evade, deflect, or intercept the technique, and then fire a counterattack.
  • Evade. As the attack comes in, you move to avoid the attack while staying in range for a counterattack.
  • Deflect. As the attack comes in, you parry or deflect it away from you and counterattack.
  • Intercept. As the attack comes in, you block or jam it and counterattack.