You may think you know Krlfe cuntiag theory through ‘books, magazines; and martial arts training, but unless you've actually been in a knife fight, it’s ali theoryt ‘The Knife fighting techniques in Put ‘Em Dawn, Take ‘Em (Oct! were developed in oneof the most vielentenvitonments ‘on Earth—inside Folsom Prison, They are tachniques that {90 far beyond what you will encounter on the streets In brief and simple language, thls book explains the dit ‘ference between Koife fighting fantasy and knife fighting ruallty. Chapters Include: ‘= THEBASICS OF KNIFE FIGHTING. The realistic aspects of ‘knife defense and attack unknown by those who have ‘never been in a knife fant. '* KNIFE FIGHTING MYTHS. Ludicrous knife fighting tech- niques perpetuated on TV and in tha movies, as well az ‘the absurd (and even dangerous) methods taught by mar- al art instructors * TRAINING, Dirsct, no-nonsense treining methods that wi faxithize your chances of survival ana success in a knit fight. ‘Tho majerity of Knife fighting “experts” out there are ‘writers, not flahters—the batties they engage in take place ‘on paper! With Put ‘Em Down, Take Em Out, you will barn ‘the ate from aman whohhas boon there and back, tohelp ‘you deal with one of the deadliest encounters you will ever face on the streets. DON PENTECOST PUT ‘EM DOWN, TAKE ‘EM OUT! Knife Fighting Techniques from Folsom PrisonDON PENTECOST PUT ‘EM DOWN, TAKE ‘EM OUT! Knife Fighting Techniques from Folsom Prison° Contents Introduction ...... Chapter One: The Basics of Knife Fighting... . Chapter Two: Knife Fighting Myths .... Chapter Three: Knife Attack Chapter Four: Knife Defense . .. . Chapter Five: Training ... vii¢ Introduction Inside Folsom Prison, the maximum security peniten- Gary outside Sacramento, “fights” are resolved with deadly weapons, nat fists. There are ao exceptions, Because ofthis, knife fighting techniques are developed far beyond methods encountered on the sleet, In brie and simple Zinguage, this book explains the dufecence between kiufe fighiing fanwsy and kale fighting reality. There are no “most important” pages in this book. What is contained within each senterice could make the difference between life and death. Thave eliminated the ludicrous, nelfective techniques that will not workin the real world against a determined opponent, The techniques in this book are uncompl- cated and direet just as a nifea:taek or defense must be 1 do nat Include my own personalexperiences within Folsom Prison, nor dol diseuss the actrrities or others. It just isn't done by those who've been there Suffice 0 say here that no environment on Earth can equal the violence and intensity of America’s “heavyweight prisons. The knife fighting techniques in this book were perfected in that envionment,Chapter One >. The Basics of Knife Fighting The prerequisite to engaging in a knife ight is that you must first know the facts of a realistic atiack, The Simpl explanation aa realistic attack destroys 99.9 per cent of all existing knife fighting theories What do you bese your knife fighting theories on? Have you ever seen someore killed with a knife? Have you ever killed anyone with a knlle? Have you ever elended yourself from someone intent on killing you with kalle? Are your theories derived from telev'sion, movies, or magazines? Be honest with yoursel ‘The object na knife fight will always be to kill the ‘enemy se quickly as possible, with as Tittle risk 19 you ‘as possible, Remember this andl apply iLin your training, ‘THE DEADLIEST WEAPONS ‘The deadliest weapons are your mind and whatever ‘weapon you have in your hand. Ifyou brandish a knife your opponent would be justified in usinga gun against You. OF course, Justification is only a consideration for ‘awabiding” citizens and Is imrelevant to criminals. ‘Staying alive is the primary reason why you should nover give your opponent a chance to defend Iimsellrm -M DOWN. TAKE "EM OUT! Be quick and brutal! When you use a knife, tis for one purpose only—to kill he enemy! Never give an apparent fa chance to defend, think, of run ‘Once you have accomplished your Mal objective, leave thescene of the attack as soonas possible, even though youmay have been legally in the right, The only execp- lion to this would be you were defending your home. EMPHASIS ON TECHNIQUE. ‘You must remember that technique is nol the deter: mining faetor in a fight. Who applies the technique and who receives the technique are the primary determinants. Rathless determination will evershadov technique or choice of weapon every time, The will to win is more important than the skill to win. In fight, mace att ‘ude is crucial! Determination is the only thing that will get you off he ground alter being stabbed, shot, of uniches. ‘No matter what techniques you end up using (geap- pling, punching. stabbing, or whatever). your fighting objective is (0 put the opponent physically down on the ground, After you have accomplished this goal, be certain he stays dawn, The Gime freune of & knife attack 1 usually very short—it is often over in a matier of seconds. Keep this in mind when developing offensiveand deleasive tech: niques and through all aspects of your training, MENTAL TACTICS When was the last time you serlously tested your determination? You will never know what you will do im acertain situation until you ate i. that situation, The same is true of your opponent, no matter how confident he appears. Many who thought that they were the world's deadliest man” laid down when faced with rae adversity! THE BASICS OF KNIFE FIGHTING Most people are intimideted If they are confrented when they're alone. Remember, the rst characteristic of a punk is the need for friends to back him up. Cer {ain groups are notorious for this weakness. The second characteristic of a punk is sceing how far he can push you without any real Intention of going one-orrone with you, te., seeing what he ean get away with. The third jaracteristic of 2 punk is “conversation” after he reallzss that Iie has biden off more than he can chew. Ifyou need to make a poiat or verbal threat with any problem person, state your position calmly, quietly, ane directly. Fortraying yourself as a seemingly confident person with wide eves and a quiet voice will make him think that youare very “intense.” Some situations will require a more forceful statement and/or action. I this forcurs, Ly to engage in confrontation on your own terms sueh as time, location, er circumstances. Most violent situations are nol “blitz” attacks, They ‘are more likely to be borderline eases that escalate into violent encounters, without clear-cut provocation on, ‘your part. Ifyou have ne fear of legal consequences eg. ‘doing time,” then justification of your subsequent actions will not be a factor. ADRENALIN AND FEAR Every Intelligent person instinctively experiences fear You must learn to control that fear. Adrenalin ean hea positive or negative fuctor, depend: ing on the individual. Do not let anyone convince you that adrenalin is always a positive experience, ‘Two areas that cannot be taught through a ook. video, or even a quelified private mstructorare pain con: tuol and adrenalin control. Like most “feelings.” they ean oly be personally experienced or aliered, Fear of pain and fear of injury are two of the sreatest anxieties of the selfcdefense student. A lange part of mental toughness is acknowledgingPUT 'EM DOWN, TAKE ‘EM OUT! {ear but working through lt. When you experience pain of any kind—be it smashing your thumb with a ham- ‘mer. Stubbing your toe, or being kit in the head with a rock—your first and immediate reaction must be anger, not submission, Chapter Two ——___—__+ Knife Fighting Myths Easting knife Aghong myths can be your greatest enemy. Learn the three basic facts: 1) Experienced fighters do not lead with the knife. 2) Experienced fighters will not leave the knife hand cestencled and stationary after a thrust, alowing you a chance to apply a “hole, 3) An experienced fighter wil hit you with his free hand—it is not paralyzed. Eyamine existing publications and you will see that these three myts are the foundation of all their techniques, LEADING WITH THE KNIFE On television, the villain always leads with the knife. He begins anattack by thrusting the knife hand out so the hero can knock the weapon out of hishand. Not even bn television, however, would someone kek or grab at properly retracted knife hand ‘Why do you suppose yon never ste the TV defender getting set up with the empty band before the weapon: hand thrust? Simple, The individuals presenting this garbage have absolutely no idea what really happens 7PUT ‘EM DOWN, TAKE EM OUT! ‘Leading with the knife An experienced fighter wilt not 6 this, ina knife attack, and thus haven't a clue as to deiense, The fact I, an experienced fighter will have his knife hand held clese to his side until the empty hand has done tts Job and ereated an opening. Only’ then 1s the Iknife ready to be thrust into the opponent's body. The ‘knife fs then quickly reiracted and the assailant will con- tinue to pump multiple stabs into the victim. If realistic knife attacks were performed on television, all the heroes would be dead. Actors using knives car: not win on television because the knife i a trademar¥ of the bad guy. Good guys use fists and guns Simply put. an experienced fighter will not lead with the knife whea hes within striking range. It looks good {or television, so the hero can conveniently disarm the villain, bat intelligent people do net behave this way. Intelligent people would like to continue living. Most martial art “knife defense” techniques alse have the epponent leading with the Knife. Az soon as you ad 8 KNIFE FIGHTING MYTHS Isnite against unite is « scenario you wil uot ofter secon the reality, practical stance and grip, retracted knife hand. ’mpryrhand strikes, ond a determined attacker, you must eliminate thelr prearranged techniques and theories. Slashing (cutting from a sembextended arm position) js another ludierous knifelead technique perpetuated through television and tae martial arts. In reality, slashing techniques are prolonged and risky. Bach lire the knife hand is extended. a risk is taken. Extending the knife hard should only oceur when you are going, to stab your epponent, following an emply-hand strike, Besides, how could you slash someone if your “nile” is a sharpened piece of scrap metal or Wood, pair of selssors, Ice pick, or screwdriver? KNIFE AGAINST KNIFE Contrary to what you see in the movies, this is not fa common situation, Your opponent generally wi be either more heavily armed or less heavily armed than you, More importantly, one person will initiate the attack, Ihefore the other.You do not “face-off ‘This situation is similar to claserange shooting. In the real world, it would be highly unlikely that you vould drow your weapon at the same moment as your ‘opponent. Even if both individuals were carrying hand {guns one person 1s going to initiate the altackand have the eritical Jump on the other. Knife agalnst knife (or handgun against handgun) is ot a realistic scenario on whieh to ase your training, FACEOFF ‘Television cules require a face-off, giving the hero 2 chance to defend himself and eventually disarm the villain. After watching enough of this trash, you might siart (o think that this is how street fighting really does happen. It docsn’t, Never “feel” your opponent out, giving hima chance to defend hims#if. Brotally attack Witkoul warning, with 10 ANI SHTING MYTHS ‘only {vo things on your mind: 1) put him down on the ground, and 2} take him out! ‘Do not siand there after one slab and expect him to iop in his Gacks. Keep pumping the knife into him, forcing him to drop! COMMANDO TAKEDOWNS Forget the television “commando” bullshit, This gar- bage does not work tn the seal world, In the movies, you have probably seen the American Green Beret soldier quickly disarm and kill the enemy soldier. Typical scenarios: 1) The unarmed hero grabs the attacker's knlfe hand and stabs the enemy in the stomach with hisown ent, 2) The hore fips the enemy soldier to the groundand then stabs him in the chest. in the movies. again, we are dealing with the premise thal the attacker will lad with the knife, will not use hs empty hand, and will not offer any resistance once the defender makes his mave. ‘You cannot force any technique in a real life-or-death situation, An opportunity must present Itself. But be observant—an opportunity can present itselFin the blink ofan eye. Never attempt an offensive technique while an attacker's knife hand isn the retracted position. In this situation, you should counter, not inliate,an attack, An. experienced fighter will retract his Knife hand too quickly for any offensive attack or hold to be applied. MARTIAL ARTS MYTHS It would take literally a lifetime (0 describe all the absurd martisl ari techniques passed off as “knife dofense." ‘Martlal art instruetorsare trying to decelve themselves fandl others that they Lave found an casy system (© uPUT ‘EM DOWN, TAKE EM OUT! eliminate the problemof violence and achieve “spiritual harmony." Fighting is violence, and it will never be eliminated by martial arts, Learning a martial art in order to avold violence 1s tantamount to sticking your head in the sand. Contrary to the teachings of “noted knife fighting experts, certain accepted techniques are ridiculous and will get you killed in a reabife situation, Unarmed joint: lock taledowns against an armed opponent and kicle ing knife out of an attacker's hand are just two of the more common examples. Such “sanitary” approaches make knife fighting accepiable to the general public— they do not burst che viewer's television fantasy bubble, ‘The traditional martial aris are, in fact, busy perpetuating the most useless shit imaginable! These ‘noted experts” are writers. not dighters! The battles they engage in take place on paper. Do you actually believe that you can engage in a Iie ordeath fight and not come in contact with the oppo: nent? That isexactly what these indivieualsare Lrying to promote with such ridiculous techniques How would these techniques workif the opponent first struck with his empty hand to the eyesand then used the retracted knife hand as a quick follow-up blow? Jointocks and Kicks simply would nol work: against such real-life methods. Use of these tecianiques would reoult in the death of the technique ser! ‘Such “scientific” techniques work very wellonly when there is Ite or no resistance. Yes, a wrist lock could be very painful, but so Is having your hand crushed in a vise. The point is, it ludicrcus to attempt to apply elther hold against an armed, determined opponeri, Anyone who believes he could apply these techniques against a formidable opponent has never fought a formidable opporent! Remember, resistance is what separates reality from fantasy. Without resistance, even the mest absurd 12 KNIFE FIGHTING MYTHS techniques can te effective, Traditional martial art techniques are very eflecuve, providing someone allows the technique to be administered. ‘Techniques that ‘work” when there ig no serious resistance are simply not worthy of your consideration, Beware the easy solution! Examining all the ridiculous martial arts techniques ‘woul be both lengthy and boring. Ludicrous training methods incide pressure points, jointlocks, come: alongs, high kicks, kala, and the like. All of these are ‘anlamtounic wosueking your head in the sand and do act deal with reality. Real fighting can never be considered as “controlled technique” or “style.” “The martial arts are selling a style. Eastern religion, philosophy, language, tradition, and culture do not pro- mote effective selfetefense. In fact, most marilal artists are neither (rained nor proficient streetiighters because. simply put, they do not fight. Self prefessed suifdelense "experts" are very gencrous concerning tae value of the marual arts for street defense. Allegedly. the only drawback to the martial arts fs the time it lakes to become a trained fighter. Inactu- ality, there is no inherent selé-defense value in the mar- lial arts, no matter how many decades one studies, ‘There fe no inherent self-defense value in ary “style. I your geal is personal protection, then training in the mara arts wil bea negative detour from your objective Remember. the opponent with the knife is in control, fof the fight. Ke iitiates the attack and maintains the upper hand because he has a weapon and you do not, Martial art publications are ond of showing how the a= lacker makes. thrust and then leaves the knife hand extended and stationary, leting the defender immedi- ately gain control. The atiacker then watehes in an apparent trance while the defender applies technique alter technique on him. Doss this scundeven remotely possible 10 you? 13PUT "EM DOWN, TAKE "EM OUT! ‘When fighting for real, there should be more impor- tanze placed on who is fighting than what techniques are being used by you or your opponent. Fighting is a person, his mind, and his body. Fighting fs not style and technique. alyzed army” msth. The Gefenderatterpts 4 complicated vrist Tock and is hit in the theost by the ‘ttasker'sfreehand Inareal encounter, the average defender would have never made it past the second photo. vy KNIFE FIGHTING MYTHSChapter Three ——___—¢ Knife Attack Ina keife fight. why use techniqnes that will only stop fa pussy? What happens when you have to fight’ a real ‘opponent? Think about it, thon read ont KNIFE FIGHTING GRIPS ‘With ll Iinife fighting grips, hold the knlfeas sccurcly, land tightly as possible to make sure it neverleaves your hand during the atteck Tee Pick Grip “This grip can be used effectively in rear attacks, when, stabbing someone in the hack. I'you are able to hit your ‘opponent from the rear. however, it is not terribly Important what grip you use! ‘The lnnfe i held with a clenched fist, with the blade extending out from tae bottom of the hand (like using, san ice pick) ‘The ice pick grip is not common in frontal assaults from a standing position, contrary to martial arts literature, and it is not common or effective when defending oneself. Some poplar knife fighting books devote ever half the pages to defense against overhead, 7PUT ‘EM DOWN, TAKE EM OUT! Ice pick grip. Ice plek grip. frontal attacks, Defendingagainst a knife ‘would be much easier ifall you had to worry about were uch telographed, single, overhead blows. Fighting Grip ‘This isa common grip foundin magazinesand books, tis, however, "arm-chair warrior” theory. With this grip, the thumb does not wrap around the hand but rests on (op of the knife handle. The blade extends out from the thumb at the tep af the hand. ‘You might feel comfortable using this grip. but itis not practical. It io not as secure as the hit grip because the thumb is not used properly—to grip any abject firmly. you must use your thumbs Try both and make your ‘own evaluation, Hit Grip ‘The bit grip is primarily for penetration. It is the preierred grip for serious business 18 KNIFE ATTACK, "The overhead, ice nck gro knife attack is another knife ting ‘myth perpetuated by TW books, and the maral arts. lgeing grin. 19PUT ‘EM DOWN, TAKE "EM OUT! Hi grip, ‘The hand is wrapped around the handle into a fist, with the blade extending from the top of the hand. between the thumb and index finger. Your thumb is the kkey element for a secure grip. KNIFE FIGHTING STANCE A proper knife fighting stance starts with a solid foun- dation. Your feet should be about shoulder width apart kkcep your knees bent, and lean forward at the waist Your iesd hand is extended and open, ready to strike, Your knife hand Is retracted and close to the body so your opponent cannot atternpt to disarm you without bringing himself into your strikingand stabbing range. ‘Keep your eyes on your opponent zt all times—as men- toned earlier, a knife fight is often over ina matter of seconds, Rememier this When assuming a slanes, prac- tleing footwork. ete 20 1A proper kale sighting stancePUT "EM DOWN. TAKE "EM OUT! ‘The hotegraphs on this and the folowing page show a one-two attack dail using a focus glove. 22 KNIPE ATTACK, ONE-TWO ATTACK ‘There are only two basie, effective frontal attacks. The fArst—the foundation of any frontal attack —o the one: two strike. Also known as a combination, one-two blows are individual techniques applied in quick sequence. ‘Thisis nevera single blow—you must first lead with en cemply-hand strike and thea follow through with a knlle thmist, Each technique must be effective and there should not be any hesitation between strikes, Iie not diffieult fora seccer goalie to block a single shot, but ifa second and third ball were shot at the same UUme, at least one is Likely to get through. The same is truc in unarmed and weapon attacks. For experienced fighters, single blows are t00 easy to block and do not create openings in the opponent's defense. Lead (Empty) Hand Strikes Ina one-two attack, you first strike with your emply hand to create an opening. The eyes are the primary 23target. Actual eye contact is not as importantas general ‘sion imerfererice: This will force your opponent to close has eves, lose his balance. or cause himn to overreact. One Of these will be his natural reaction to your first offen- sive strike. and your opening will be created, Empty-hand strikes should be quick and hard, and utilize the entire body, net Just the arm, Fist ar palm strikes can be effective; however, a palm strike is usually best. You may also use a palm strike to grab for control (sce “Control of the Opponent’s Left Side,” below), Following the empty-hand strike (ora coavincing fein the retracted knife hand thrusts immediately for the ‘opening, Never allow your opponent time fora defense opportunity. ‘Note: I'you are unarmed when attacked by someone with a knife, the primary offensive targets for you are the testicles, eyes, and throat. Go for them. ‘THREE-STEP ATTACK ‘The second basic frontal attack is the three-step attack, also ealleda “deceptive lead.” Again, never lead 24 A lead hand strike to the ‘yen alta! movement of onetwo attac, with the weapon in the critical zone (the distance at which you can be hit by a particular individual). The safe distance is further than the opponent's outstretched limbs, ‘The only significant difference between the one-two attack and this method is that, in a three-step attack, {you ietentionally feln: with the knife while out of range. luring your opponent inte a premature strike. This will ‘open his defense. Immediately enter the eritical zone ‘with the knife retracted and apply the basic one-two movement. Stab the enemy until he is down, regardless of where you are punched. Kicked, stabbed, elbowed, or whatever, ‘Once your adversary is down, you must take him out. Make absolutely certain that he will di. CONTROL OF THE OPPONENT'S LEFT SIDE ‘Your opponent's left side is a primary knife target for several eritieal reasons, If you have control of your opponent's left side (or right side, if you're left-handed), 4€ fs difficult for him (o protect that area which has 2526 An effective attack combination. Starting on the previous page. Ghe attacker preforms 2 anesteo altace thea gains conttol oF the cefender‘sleft sce by geabbing his arm and sping hm. ‘Thenttacker stabs the exposed. umprovected are. become your most conventent target—his nimw expnsed left kiciney, lung. ete. Itis even more effective if you ean ‘actually turn him to Oe side once you have control. Aer all, grappling dees occur in knife attacks. Study the photographs carefully, AN EFFECTIVE ATTACK COMBINATION 1 Prom an offensive kniée stance. quickly step forward (lead foot firs, rear foot following). closing the gap ‘while simultaneously striking with the lead (emp!y) hand, 2) Immediately stab with the retracted knife hand, 3)Grab the left arm (or jacket sleeve. collar. back of neck, hair) and spin the opponent to your left. exposing his left side. 4) Continue stabbing the opponent in any exposed area, as many umes as possible. 27PUT "EM DOWN. TAKE ‘EM OUT? TARGETS A vital target is relative to who you are trying to stop. with many opponents, even the most meaningless blow will put them down. With other individuals, howeves, your best shot to a vital target will not stop them, especially ifthe “vital” target i based on martial arts ‘theory. Kemember, the Key word Is determination. You can hit some people bard enough in the arm to make them run, There is difference between what will stop a pussy and what will stop a violent. determined opponent—a big difference! Heart ‘Two-thirds of the heart ison the let side ofthe chest, I you alm for the middle of the chest, your knife is apt to rebound of the sternum, Remember. karate studio theary and laboratory conditions are not real-life siti tions. Unless you have actually been in a Knife ght, i is al theory. Neck: ‘The neck isa vital target rom any angle, The optimal entrance to the spinal cord liesat Ihe base of the skal If you are able to attack your opponent from the rear, pill yourleft handaround hus throat or mouth and pull hhim backward and down as you thrust your knife Attempt to push cut through the front of the neck, Use the hit grip with maximum foree. Even though there is no such thing as a “sllent klII” with a kaife, a sharp piece of metal through the neck at the base of the skull fs one of the quickest Idling methods at your disposal. Unfortunately, 1L1s not the ‘most practical target since itis dificult to attack some: bone from behind, Certain “experts” might (ell you not to put your hand over an opponent's mouth because he could bite your 28 KNIFE ATTACK finger olf, This Is nonsense. In a violent attack, if you put your hand over the opponent's mouth as hard as you can and immediately follow with a Knife thrust, [ {gueranice he will not bite your hand, If he is getting a Dlade pumped into his back, biting your finger will not center his mind. Hamstring Cut Warming: This technique cannot be included in the basic attacks—it is a more advanced move. This target is most effective wien adapted to the deceptive lead. Lead with the knife hand outside the critical one and lure the opponent into a premature attack. Hold the knife hand low, with the arm exiended. In this case, grabbing the leg will substitute for the cempty-hand strike. Once you have contiol ofthe leg, cut the hamstring just above the back of the knee, oF stab the torso sf your Knite does not have 2 cutting edge. ‘This is but one of many situations that would enable you lo gain contra! of your opponent’ leg. Once you heve Control of his leg. you can attack him either while ne is sianding or on ihe ground. It is not difficult to put hhim on his back after you have control of hie leg, OBJECT JAB An object jab serves thesame purpose as the empiy- hand strike, The objective Is to confuse or blind the opponent so that he will be unprotected for the follew- up blow. Instead ofan empty-hand strike, use your lead hand to throw an object inlo your opponent's face, then im: ‘mediately thrust the knife. The object can be a shirt, sand, asitray, chemicals, shoe, elgaretle—anythung, This technique isan elfective defense against a knife attack, as well 29PUT "EM DOWN, TAKE ‘EM OUT! ‘An object jab using a tovel INSERTING THE KNIFE ‘Tae time between your empty-hand strike and the knife thrust should beas shorlas possible. Continue to pump the knife Into the opponent until he fs down andlor dead, depending on the situation Ina life-threatening situation, get whatever you can, when you ean, as many dies as you cant OTHER WEAPON ATTACKS “The stance for ighting with other weapons fa similar to knife ighting. The same fighting principles also apply regardless of the weapon. te, police baton, hammer, tre fron, ear antenna, stick, or pipe. Never lead with the ‘weapon within striking range, and use the empty-hand, strie (or felnt) to set up the weapon-hand strike. ‘Weapon sitikes should be similar to hand strikes. 30 KMPE ATTACK Effective combinations should move smoothly from one target (© another while mainiaining proper bslance, defense, and power, Just as a rigat cross should be followed by a left hook, a baton strike to the left side of the opponents head should he followed by a backhand strike to the right side, and so forth ‘These are basic, effective, natural mevements tl Ing maximum power and balance. If this. "scientific" approach fails or isnot instinctive enough for you, then hit him in the head until he's dead! Your anatemy permits certain movements that can, appear simple and direct in a fight, but that does not necessarily make then practical fighting techniques. A crosshand block is an example of this—you can do il, bbuti€ might ie your arms up. a position you definitely do not want them in. You must be able io distinguish between techniques that «re physically possible toapply in afight and techniques that are practical. There isa big dilference! alChapter Four ° Knife Defense The following list outlines the basic principles of defense against a knife attack, Some principles are specific and some are generic. 1) Prevention, Preventin is a vague concept. Preven ‘lon, awareness. and mental attitude are closely related. Prevention involves action on your part efore the fact (before an attack actually occurs) the information in this book should be used as the foundation for such preventative action. 2) Mental Atiusde. This is the single most Important factor in combat survival. Proper menial atatude lin your training and Ina real situation) cannot be overemphasized. 9) Awareness. Always be alert and aware of your sur- roundings. It fs extremely imporiant to take the clement of ourprise away from your opponent 4) Offense, A good offense is your primary defense. Ofen & strong offense 1s dhe only defense dhat is needed. Fighting is so extremely quick that offense and defense arc, at most times, simul- taneous, But you must walt fr the proper open- Ing before goingon the offensive against an armed opponent! 33PUT ‘EM DOWN, TAKE "EM OUT! '5) Expect to be hit. Exen the best defensive Aghters et hit, You must expect to recive some damage ‘in any fight. To think otherwise will destroy your concentration in anacteal allnck: Remernber this for your tralning adjectives, ©) Keep your eyes open. Never take your eyes off your ‘oppohent (or potential opponent) especially when you are hil, which is the most difficult time todo 50, Always expect an atiack if someone Is within striking range. 7) Protect your back at ail times, Never carn your back on any opponent at any time! Nohold, throw, fr Klck that requires you to present your rear 10 the opponent is praciieal. Protect your backside al all imes whether grappling or Standing, Stay off your back and keep your epponent off tas welll 8) Keep moving. Thisisa natural defense, A moving, target is more dificult to hit, and your opponent cannot gel set offensively. Effective movement is rot “dancing” around the opponent. Avokd exag. gerated movements—try to move the minimum elfective distance. An overreaction or amproper ‘movement on your part can throw off your bal- ance, and good balance is erucial when delending against a knife attack, 9) Instinctive defensive rellexes seldom make effec- lve fighting reactions. Closing the eyes when an object looms close isa “natural” reaction, but it Js hazardous in a fight. Work (© avoid all such instinctive defensive rellexes, 10) Be direct and simple, Eliminate the complexsty and quantity of any techniques you musi use to defend yoursell, 11) Finish the Job. Ifyou are unarmed, never leave the secne if your opponent is not incapacitated. Otber- wwize, you might be fueing him « few minutes later armed with a gun, with his companions, ete, AS 34 ‘6 proper wnacmed knife defense stance Jong as your apponent Is physically capable of harming you, there Is no such thing as excessive force. Do rot let mercy pleadings make you slop your assavit,cilher. As mentioned earller, conver: salion isa common occurrence with a puak who hae bitten off more than he can chew: He lost all his rights when he decided to attack you. Your compassion in a violent aituation could get you kkiled. The biggest mistake he made. and the one that he wil have to pay dearly for, was choosing lo attack you! 12) Don't stick around. Kill the enemy and escapeas quickly as possible In most situations, success Fully Jeaving the scene requires more skill and luck) than & euccessfil attack or defense KNIFE DEFENSE STANCE All defensive andl offensive maneuvers shanld be with a good foundation. The most effective isa modified boxing stance: 1) Keep your hands open. 35poor knife de‘ensestance The detenderis standing erect ard facing the attacker straighton 2) Never stand erect or facing the opponent strafght- ‘on. You will be unable to protect yourself in this position even though it is a natural reaction. 3) Emphasize protecting your torso organs, since they are prime knife targets 4) Keep your stance low by bending forward at the 8) Keep your knees bent and maintain proper place: ‘ment of YouF feet, similar to the fool posttion of a toxing stance (ie., not (00 narrow and not too wide), This is the founcation of your balance, mobility. power. and leverage—anything less will sacrifice all of these vital defense principles. 6) Keep your eyes straight ahead and open at all times, especially when you are lit, which is the most dificult die, 36 ‘Two examples of poor foot position. ta the fist photo the feet are too clase and in the second they are 100 far apart No matter how good your stance is, you cannot pro- tectall arcas.at all umes, Nonetheless, your attacker is, only going to get as close as he ean before receiving, serious interierence from you. Your hands will provide ‘most of the necessary interference. ‘You should be proficient at the fundamental stance and hand techniques before you attempt variations. In practical applications, you will require extensive traia- ing and experience before your basic techniques are effective, DEFENSE AGAINST ARM GRABS Be aware chat an experienced ‘nife fighter might attempt to contre! and attack sour left side by grabbing land {urning you, You must never allow the attacker to ‘grab your left arm or control your left side in ary way, and riever (urn to expose your left side. This is reversed, ff course, Hf your allecker ts left-handed, 37PUT "EM DOWN, TAKE "EM OUT! ‘your left sige, Nete that by the third photograph, the defender ‘Seompletely exposedand defenseless. in really, the sequence ‘would take only seconds to complete KNIFE DEFENSE ‘The positions of your stance and left arm are crucial sn providing a good defense. Block with your left hand only when the knife is thrust at you, Your stance should be Such that the knife approaches your body between your let arm and your sib cage. Again. this is reversed if your attacker holds the knife in his left hand, since hha will then ty to expose your right side, Your right (retracted) hand is not "paralyzed””—it ts walling fora possible offensive (or defensive) opportunity GRAPPLING AND KNIVES Oftentimes situations will arise thal invelve grappling, ‘no matter how proficlent you are at defensive tactics \while standing up. Some siidividuals will intentionally grapple before they stab you. Getting stabbed during rapping is ust ore of the many situations that could tlevelop ina typical streetfight. You never know whe you are dealing with, so never underestimate anyone! ‘This is also true from your (defensive) viewpoint, If your opponent is In a standing position and you are ‘dotermined to tak him down, you can, but only Ifyou are willing to pay the pricePUT ‘EM DOWN, TAKE ‘EM OUT! KNIFE DEFENSE ne of the many examples of how you can be stabbed durieg «grappling situation. 40 41‘another version of rap pling and knives KNIFE DEFENSE “nopping with the lead hand. PRINCIPLES OF TRAPPING A trap is a gloriled slap thal ean remain in contact with the opponent's limb. It is uscd to fend olf the attacker's thrusts, Trapping is done quickly and hard, uustially with the lead hand, from the knife defense stance: ‘A trap 18 not to be confused with a hold, Do not attempt io hold te Knife or arm of the attacker. An ex perlenced fighter will retract the Knife hand instants. making i extremely dangerous to attempt a hovd, Ifyou are attacked, the immediate objective isto trap fend off the knife hrusts) until there is en opportunity fo counterattack or run. its at all possible. rn if you are unarmed. This is not « schoolyard fistfight. Ifyou cannot avoid tmpping with your right hand (eg your opponent is left-handed) the opponent will be close hough thal you must now use your left (lead) xd for 43‘offense and your right (power) hand to trap. The key here Is to be flexible in your defense—don't be locked into apping only with your lead hand, because the situa don could change in a matler of seconds, forcing you to alter your defense. Again, your attacker's natural reaction will be retract his knife hand after a thrust. You must strike to the eyes or throat before the lknife hand has been retracted. Once the lnifeis retracied, he will strike again fiom « protected position. Never try to force any technique in knife defense, An. ‘opportunity must present itself before you atternpt an ollensive strike. It would be difficult, at best, to create that opportunity. Your major emphasis should be on defense vot the weapon is ina less dangerous poston ‘This is important: you are countering in knife defense, you are not on the offensive! The opponent with he kkalfe obviously has more control of the situation and therefore should instiate the offensive. 44 ‘Trapping with the power hand A real knife fight is fast and sunpredietate, eo you must ba able ta adjust your datease at Amoment’s notice 45PUT EM DOWN, TAKE "EM QUT! Your focal point belongs on the weapon during dhis ‘tage. Peripheral vision is important to keep track of the rest of the opponent’s body. Keep maving, even in a canfined area, Never let the cepponent get “painted” (solid footing) to allow a more poWerful attack. Run, defend, of attack, but never let your mental altitude become passive: COUNTERATTACK ANGLES ‘The angle at which the opponent attacks determines the angle at wien youare going to counterattack. You cannot force a powerful knife thrust in an opposite dree: ion, Atempting todo so would be fatal agains an expe: enced attacker, If the opponent attacks at a high angle, your initial ‘counteratlack should be upurard, the opponent attacks at a downward angle, you should counter downward. Caution: This could be ihe setup for ¢ Unrce-step aliack, so always be cauticus of an extended knife hand. I: you. iniUiate your counterattack prematurely. you could get bit with the empty hand, and then the knile hand woule immediately follow. With all techniques, avoid exag: gerated movements ‘These ere not meant to be specific techniques that must be used in a knife fight, You always have other cefense options within the angle of attack. After analy2- Ing options and vartations of techniques (dhrough epplt cation), formulate principles that work best for you. GROUP ATTACKS Most punks do not cause trouble by themselves. They ve by the concept of safety and strength 1n numoers. Although many gang members need that kind of seeur- ity, they aze nonetheless stil dangerous ina pack. Even, the mighty tiger can be killed by a pack of wild dogs. Ina multiple attack situation, one fact remains constant: 46 KNIFE DEFENSE you are at an extreme disadvantage against a group, even when the group is as small as two Whether or not you will survive a group attack is determined by the determination and motivation af the gang, the number of attackers, their attributes, and your aitributes. Ina group attack, you do not control the siluation, no matter how much you ty to convince yourself otherwise. Therefore, the least emphasis is placed on your attributes. Getting down o the truth, ifthe group has any motiva- tion al all and is comprised of more than tun young kids, you are in serious trouble, If the gang armed and ‘atermined, you will not survive anarmed and may not come away even if you are armed. Contrary to seléderense magazines, 1 will not sult your intelligence by providing prearranged techniques Tor unarmed defense against armed, multiple attackers. A premeditated, determined, armed attack is anexe: cation, itis nota selfdefense situation! Scenario: a small {group comes up to yan and ane of the members asks to bum a cigarette. You are surrounced and you know they'r: looking for trouble. Do you initiatea preemptive strike? Without a firearm in your hand and the element ofsurprise on your side, youre in very serious trouble. Group attack situations are the least predictable ofall assaults. Unfortunately, there are no prearranged “flts- all” techniques that are effective. Do not let anyone tell ‘you there are, because you will only be fooling yourself. ‘A martial aris instructor who claims simple solutions to group aitacks should be avoided like the plague. His ‘style” has an answer for every situation, but his solu ton is nothing more than studio theory. There are simply too many prearranged techniques in the tadi- tional martial arts ¢o be practical ia a real incident involving a gang of attackers, Ifyou find yourself able to fight back in a group attack situation, at all costs do not let yourself be held. Stay arPUT "EM DOWN, TAKE EM OUT! fee and striking. Do not kick, Any kick is risky, and agaist muluple attackers i Is Insanity! Remeraber kicking stability ‘ prometed by the elimination of resistance, and you Will be facing resistance when assaulted by a gang. ‘At this point youare probably expecting me to tell you what a great asset clear thinking is and how "keeping your head” is of paramount importance in a group ‘allack. Sorry to disappoint you! ‘You are fighting these bastards to the death! is hap- pening now, not next week! Your subcousclous will to survive is going to control your actions at this point, nol your conscious, clear thinking. Remember, any person has the capacity for violence Ifhe has the motivation, right environment, and the situation warrants the violence, 48 Chapter Five Training ‘Training for any kind of viclent encounter occurs every ‘moment of your life. Whether or not it is productive ‘depends on how you handle each situatior MENTAL TRAINING Fighting fs the epitome of aggression, and mental altitude is the single most important factor in combat. ‘The wil t9 win is lar more important than Ue stil to win. Your greatest enemy in combat could be you if you hold back during a violent encounter. Your mind rust be free from prearranged techniques, ‘and iastead be prograramed for direct, violent action. ‘Your entire “being” should be determined to accomplish ‘one objective: put the opponent down and make sure ‘taal he stays there. Lel your subconsclous mind take control. This sub: conscious state of fighting does not mean fighting in a trance or “going crazy.” It means removing all pre- arranged techniques and conscious, planned reactions from your mind. ‘There is no way you can have effective, prearranged responses to unknown actions. If you think about a 49PUT ‘EM DOWN, TAKE 'EM QUT! speciiic defense or offense. you will block your sub- conscious survival (or predatory) instinets, you train correctly. your moves should come automatically and instinetively the day you do become invalved in a real situation, It is true Ghat conscious action (your opponent's attack) will usually be faster than your subconscious reaction (your defense). Your subconscious reaction (survival instinct), however. is faster than your conscious reaction (planned response). Conscious action beats subconscious reaction in an attack, but subconscious (automatie) movement beats conscious (planned) move ment in your defense. ‘You should be able to contret your mind and the degree of injury you inflict on your attacker. This Is, ‘meant (o encourage the unleashing of your atlack. not its restraint! Fighting (possibly for your life) means inflicting as mach damage as possibie, in the shortest time possible—the first with the mast! You need a “light swhich” (instant) temper when itis appropriate, but you must still be able €@ spread your anger over a long pericd of time. In other words, you must be able to exiend your Viclent motvation fr as long ¢s it takes to eliminate the problem andlor oppo: nent. Depending on the eircumstances, it might take one minute, six months. or five years, but it must be taere when the time comes for you to Do not let physical appearances intimidate you, even though this subconscious reaction has been developed since clementary school, Do not build confidence through your appearance either, eg, weight Lifting, Bodybullding, without steroids, isan excellent training, supplement, but it is nol the final solution to your personal defense. Never underestimate your opponent—he could possess concealed advantages. After all, you cannot “sec” fighting, skill and experience, endurance, deter 50 TRAINING. mination, speed, power. or concealed weapons until it is too late! You should present a confident image at all times. This olten can prevent an attack. Most predators. man Included, secle out the weak, not the strong. You must acquire a tough mental attitude. This does not mean uying lo acc (ough. The ugh guy attitude is bullshit unless you are actually a tough fighter. ‘To develop a tough mental attitude takes lots of ime and as much effortas you can provide. Itmeans going allittle—or a lot—further than the other guy. it means competing agains! yourself, It must be. developed gradually. The longer you have been “sof..” the longer i¢vill ake, The American style io aoft 19 begin with, so it will take even more effort ‘rom you. BASIC TRAINING All training should be simple and direct, practiced at full speed, and done with a training partner. Solo prac: idee Is not advised. Practice with many different part- ners, as well, 0 get used to alfferent kinds of fighters. Play a glorified game of tag using a vaining knife. ‘Wher your partner has “stabbed” you with penetrating pawer. change positions, Practice offense and defense against an armed and unarmed opponent. The degree ‘of realiam te contingent on the individuals Involved. It is advisable to wear protective gear so that you can realistically practice hand techniques. There fen other ‘way (legally) to determine the practicality of your tech- niques then to test them in full-comtact, “anything goes! taining, Slow-motion and “pulled” punches do not perfect or test techniques. No matter how tough and determined you are during full-contact training, you must remember thatit isonly training, In areal attack, you should have the attitude that no one can slop you! ‘Use “scenario” mental conditioning to draw your BLPUT "EM DOWN, TAKE EM OUT! violent power out during full-contact training Suppose, for mstance, Ural you had to watch your mother, daughter, or wife being gang raped and beaten. Isit far lo assume violent motivation on your part? IC not, you should seek psychological counseling as soon as, possible! Never pane, ether during full-contact training oF in a real-life violent situation. Certainly this is easier said than done. It makes sense, but how do you go about ensuring that you wor't panic at the mast ineppertune moment? Since every situation 1s different, you must practice, practice, practice! Add as much realism, Imag: nation, and variation to your training sessions & you possibly can. There are literally thousands of ways te train for Aghting, Be creative! New situations will add to your experience anxl knowledge, so situational traning is very important. Practice realistic fighting situations whenever possible. Use your imagination to set up the scenarios, Feel free to gather your skills rom ary and all ind viduals who are experienced fighters and know what they are ‘alking about. Avoid methodologies that teach you bad habiis. Ifyou follow the discipline within this, book, you will be able (o discern between the good ancl the bad, Practice, think, observe, learn, and live, MOVEMENT AND FOOTWORK Rake, balanced movement is fundamental to ighting. When the right-handed fighter maves back frem a knife defense stance, he must move his right foot first, and then the lead (let) foot follows. To move forward, a righty should step with the lead (left) foot first and follow with the right. To move left, the left foot moves first, with the right following. To move right, move the righ foot firs, followed by the 1e®. This movement feels natural to some and awkwart to others. Keep practicing until it feels comfortable and 52 ‘TRAINING automatic. Avoid exaggerated movernents. Ifyou do not move correctly. tt could be more dangerous than not moving at all Never cross your feet, Analyze carefully any self defense technique that involves crossing the feet or turn- ing your back on the opponent. BREATH CONTROL Inhale, exhale, inhale, exhale, The only dillerence is that during strenuous exercise or actual fighting, breathing is exaggerated, Breath control in actual combat will depend on your previous physical concitioning, your emotional state, ‘and your adrenalin control. Breathe aa slowly atid as ceeply as possible, In through the nose and out through the mouth, just Ike they told you tn junior high school physical education, ‘The only practical way to develop breath contol is uring strenuous end/or stressful situations, aot while sitting in a yoga position. One of the most beneficial methods of breath control training is combining correct breathing techniques during weight Iting and running “Any drill praciiced in a relaxed state, without physical and mental stress. is not going to be beneficial for this fea of your Lani EYE TRAINING Martial artiois offen try to train youto develop a “sixth sense” before they even begin development of your firs, sense: vision. ‘Keeping your eyes open during a fight requires prac tice in coniact training with a fierce determination to ‘overcome the instinct (o close them. Effective fighting techniques are useless if the eyes are not trained to remain open during contact! This elementary require ment Is too offen ignored in training. Keep your eyes epenat all times. 58.PUT ‘EM DOWN, TAKE 'EM OUT! PRACTICE DRILL Using a real knife, attack a dummy target that you can pencirate. A human-form target is best. For the best resulls, do not answer the following ques- tions until you have completed this dri ‘Atack the dummy as fast as you can (bath hand speed and closing the yap), as hard as you can, for 8s long as you ean, from as Taany angles 2s you can, Now answer these questions to analyze the results of the drill: 1) What thoughts were running through your mind? 2) What was your mental attitude? 8) Could you viualize a real opponent? 4)Did you raise your adrenalin level through visualization (scenario mental conditioning)? 5] Did you use your empty and for striking? 6) Did You use your empty hand for grabbing? 7)Did you use your empty hand after the Initial strike? 8] What was your power level? 9) How long did you last? 10) When did your blows start to slow dawn? 11) Were there problems with your grip? 12) Did you vary your stilking angles? 13} How did you close the gap between you and the “opponent”? 14) How balanced were you? 15) Did you injure yoursell? 16) Did you immedifately leave the scene? 17) The most important question: Did you kill the opponent? Bven though the dummy did not hit back, this is ax effective basic drill Work on the mistakes you made or the areas that need Improvement.