CIA Combat Training
CIA Combat Training
CIA Combat Training
Preface
The proponent for this publication is the United States Army Infantry School.
Comments and recommendations must be submitted on DA Form 2028
(Recommended Changes to Publications and Blank Forms) directly to Commandant,
United States Army Infantry School, ATTN: ATSH-RB, Fort Benning, GA,
31905-5430.
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CHAPTER 1
INTRODUCTION
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Without balance, the fighter has no stability with which to defend himself, nor
does he have a base of power for an attack. The fighter must understand two
aspects of balance in a struggle:
(1) How to move his body to keep or regain his own balance. A fighter
develops balance through experience, but usually he keeps his feet about
shoulder-width apart and his knees flexed. He lowers his center of gravity to
increase stability.
(2) How to exploit weaknesses in his opponent's balance. Experience also
gives the hand-to-hand fighter a sense of how to move his body in a fight to
maintain his balance while exposing the enemy’s weak points.
b. Mental Balance. The successful fighter must also maintain a mental
balance. He must not allow fear or anger to overcome his ability to
concentrate or to react instinctively in hand-to-hand combat.
c. Position. Position refers to the location of the fighter (defender) in
relation to his opponent. A vital principle when being attacked is for the
defender to move his body to a safe position —that is, where the attack cannot
continue unless the enemy moves his whole body. To position for a
counterattack, a fighter should move his whole body off the opponent’s line
of attack. Then, the opponent has to change his position to continue the
attack. It is usually safe to move off the line of attack at a 45-degree angle,
either toward the opponent or away from him, whichever is appropriate. This
position affords the fighter safety and allows him to exploit weaknesses in the
enemy’s counterattack position. Movement to an advantageous position
requires accurate timing and distance perception.
d. Timing. A fighter must be able to perceive the best time to move to
an advantageous position in an attack. If he moves too soon, the enemy will
anticipate his movement and adjust the attack. If the fighter moves too late,
the enemy will strike him. Similarly, the fighter must launch his attack or
counterattack at the critical instant when the opponent is the most vulnerable.
e. Distance. Distance is the relative distance between the positions of
opponents. A fighter positions himself where distance is to his advantage.
The hand-to-hand fighter must adjust his distance by changing position and
developing attacks or counterattacks. He does this according to the range at
which he and his opponent are engaged. (For a more detailed discussion of
the concepts of distance and range, see Chapter 6.)
f. Momentum. Momentum is the tendency of a body in motion to
continue in the direction of motion unless acted on by another force. Body
mass in motion develops momentum. The greater the body mass or speed of
movement, the greater the momentum. Therefore, a fighter must
understand the effects of this principle and apply it to his advantage.
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CHAPTER 2
TRAINING
This chapter discusses the trainer’s role in teaching and sustaining effective
hand-to-hand combat. It also discusses unit training training areas, teaching
techniques, and safety precautions that must be considered before conducting
combatives training.
Section I
TRAIN THE TRAINER
Professional instruction is the key to success in combative training.
Instructors must be physically fit and highly proficient in the
demonstration and practical application of the skills described in this
manual. Confidence, enthusiasm, and technical expertise are
essential for success in teaching hand-to-hand combat. Assistant
instructors must also be properly trained to help supervise and
demonstrate maneuvers. Highly trained assistant instructors under
supervision may also provide supplementary combative training
during off-duty hours.
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Section II
UNIT TRAINING
Although combative are not likely to become part of a unit’s
mission-essential task list, commanders cannot overlook the
importance of soldiers’ skills in hand-to-hand combat. Hand-to-hand
fighting is a possibility in any conflict, and a basic proficiency in
combative may save soldiers’ lives. Entry-level soldiers receive a
training base in combative during basic training and in OSUT.
Advanced individual training commanders should consider using
hand-to-hand combat as part of the physical training program. They
should review the training presented during basic training and, as time
permits, expand into the more advanced techniques discussed in this
field manual. Regular units must incorporate combative into an
organized training program for soldiers to achieve and sustain
proficiency levels.
CAUTION
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e. Period 5 - 2 Hours.
(1) Warm-ups and stretches.
(2) Overall review.
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CAUTION
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WARNING
TO AVOID INJURY, INSTRUCTORS ENSURE THAT THE
PROPER INTERVAL IS CONSTANTLY MAINTAINED.
Section IV
TEACHING TECHNIQUES
This section discusses a variety of effective teaching techniques to use
while conducting combative training.
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2-9. STANCES
A fighter’s stance (Figure 2-16)
is the position he takes in
readiness for an unarmed fight.
He may launch an attack or
defend from this stance.
a. A fighter’s stance not only
places his body in a good position
from which to attack or defend,
but it influences his mental
attitude and aggressiveness.
b. He holds his hands high
to protect his head and face.
His fists are clenched, but
relaxed. His elbows are close
to his body and his weight is
evenly distributed on both feet,
creating a stable base. He is
light on his feet with his knees
slightly flexed to allow quick
movement in any direction.
2-10. FALLS
A soldier must learn how to fall to the ground without getting hurt, both during
training and during combat. If he loses his balance or is thrown during a fight,
his use of basic fall techniques enables him to escape injury or to quickly
recover to protect himself.
WARNING
a. Laying Side Fall. The laying side fall is a training exercise that teaches
the basic movements for executing a side fall. To be safe, the fall is learned
from the squatting position until soldiers can fall properly. From the
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squatting position (Figure 2-17, Step 1), the soldier extends one leg across the
front of the body and raises his arm on the same side across his face
(Figure 2-17, Step 2).
Then he rolls onto the exposed side, allowing the extended leg and side to
absorb the shock of the fall. He slowly lowers his arm to stabilize his body.
He raises his other hand to guard against future strikes (Figure 2-17, Step 3).
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b. Standing Side Fall. The soldier starts the fall from the standing
position (Figure 2-18, Step 1).
He lowers his weight on the supporting leg and extends the other leg across
the body (Figure 2-18, Step 2).
He then distributes his body weight by rolling along the exposed side from the
ankle of the extended leg to the back muscle. The arm on the ground is used
to stabilize himself; the other hand is used to guard the body (Figure 2-l8, Step 3).
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c. Forward Rolling Fall. The soldier starts the fall from the standing
position (Figure 2-19, Step 1). He raises one arm to expose his entire side,
places both hands on the ground, and bends both knees.
He rolls forward across the body along the hand, arm, and back to the opposite
hip (Figure 2-19, Step 2) and ends in a good side fall position (Figure 2-19, Step 3).
He keeps his left leg flat on the ground, knee slightly bent. His right knee
points upward and bends inward to help protect the groin. He keeps his right
heel and sole flat on the ground behind the left leg.
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d. Rear Fall. The soldier starts the fall from the standing position and keeps
his head fonward to reduce the chance of head and neck injuries (Figure 2-20, Step 1).
He then falls backward and lowers his center of gravity by bending both knees.
As his buttocks touch the ground, he rolls backward to absorb the momentum
of the fall (Figure 2-20, Step 2).
He keeps his hands cupped and slaps his hands and arms down to help absorb
the shock of impact and to stabilize his body (Figure 2-20, Step 3). He keeps
his chin tucked on his chest.
Then, his legs come down slowly with knees bent and make contact with the
ground (Figure 2-20, Step 4). He raises his hand to protect his face from kicks
or blows. The soldier can kick his opponent from this position.
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2-12. DEMONSTRATIONS
A well-coordinated demonstration and professional demonstrators are
crucial for successful learning by soldiers. Unrehearsed presentations or
inadequately trained demonstrators can immediately destroy the credibility of the
training. There are two methods appropriate for the demonstration of combative
techniques to soldiers. These are based on the size of the group to be taught.
a. Company-Size Formation or Larger. The instructor or demonstrator
uses the talk-through method. The primary instructor talks the
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2-15. DRILLS
Drills are used to maintain soldiers’ skills in executing techniques through
repetition. During these drills, techniques or phases of techniques are
repeated as often as necessary to ensure programmed learning by the soldiers.
Subconscious programming usually occurs after 25 repetitions of movement.
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Technique drills help soldiers retain their skills, and they are a good tool for
reviewing techniques already learned.
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CHAPTER 3
CLOSE-RANGE COMBATIVES
In close-range combatives, two opponents have closed the gap between them
so they can grab one another in hand-to-hand combat. The principles of
balance, leverage, timing, and body positioning are applied. Throws and
takedown techniques are used to upset the opponent’s balance and to gain
control of the fight by forcing him to the ground. Chokes can be applied to
quickly render an opponent unconscious. The soldier should also know counters
to choking techniques to protect himself. Grappling involves skillful fighting
against an opponent in close-range combat so that a soldier can win through
superior body movement or grappling skills. Pain can be used to disable an
opponent. A soldier can use painful eye gouges and strikes to soft, vital areas to
gain an advantage over his opponent.
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himself, the fighter must maintain the advantage and disable his opponent
after throwing him (Figures 3-1 through 3-5).
NOTE: Although the five techniques shown in Figures 3-1 through 3-5
may be done while wearing LCE—for training purposes, it is safer to
conduct all throws and takedowns without any equipment.
(1) Hip throw. The opponent throws a right punch. The defender steps
in with his left foot; at the same time, he blocks the punch with his left forearm
and delivers a reverse punch to the face, throat, or other vulnerable area
(Figure 3-1, Step 1). (For training, deliver punches to the solar plexus.)
The defender pivots 180 degrees on the ball of his lead foot, wraps his right
arm around his opponent’s waist, and grasps his belt or pants (Figure 3-1,
Step 2). (If opponent is wearing LCE, grasp by the pistol belt or webbing.)
The defender thrusts his hips into his opponent and maintains a grip on his
opponent’s right elbow. He keeps his knees shoulder-width apart and slightly
bent (Figure 3-1, Step 3). He locks his knees, pulls his opponent well over his
right hip, and slams him to the ground. (For training, soldier being thrown
should land in a good side fall.)
By maintaining control of his opponent’s arm, the defender now has the
option of kicking or stomping him in the neck, face, or ribs (Figure 3-1,
Step 4).
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(3) Throw from rear choke. The opponent attacks the defender with a rear
strangle choke. The defender quickly bends his knees and spreads his feet
shoulder-width apart (Figure 3-3, Step 1). (Knees are bent quickly to put
distance between you and your opponent.)
The defender reaches as far back as possible and uses his right hand to grab
his opponent by the collar or hair. He then forces his chin into the vee of the
opponent’s arm that is around his neck. With his left hand, he grasps the
opponent’s clothing at the tricep and bends forward at the waist (Figure 3-3,
Step 2).
The defender locks his knees and, at the same time, pulls his opponent over
his shoulder and slams him to the ground (Figure 3-3, Step 3).
He then has the option of spinning around and straddling his opponent or
disabling him with punches to vital areas (Figure 3-3, Step 4). (It is important
to grip the opponent tightly when executing this move.)
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(4) Head butt. The head butt can be applied from the front or the rear.
It is repeated until the opponent either releases his grip or becomes
unconscious.
(a) The opponent grabs the defender in a bear hug from the front
(A,Figure 3-4, Step 1).
The defender uses his forehead to smash into his opponent’s nose or cheek
(A,Figure 3-4, Step 2) and stuns him.
The opponent releases the defender who then follows up with a kick or knee
strike to the groin (A, Figure 3-4, Step 3).
(b) The opponent grabs the defender in a bear hug from the rear
(B, Figure 3-4, Step 1).
The defender cocks his head forward and smashes the back of his head into
the opponent’s nose or cheek area (B, Figure 3-4, Step 2).
The defender turns to face his opponent and follows up with a spinning elbow
strike to the head (B, Figure 3-4, Step 3).
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(5) Rear strangle takedown. The defender strikes the opponent from the
rear with a forearm strike to the neck (carotid artery) (Figure 3-5, Step 1).
The defender wraps his right arm around his opponent’s neck, making sure
he locks the throat and windpipe in the vee formed by the his elbow. He
grasps his left bicep and wraps his left hand around the back of the opponent’s
head. He pulls his right arm in and flexes it, pushing his opponent’s head
forward (Figure 3-5, Step 2).
The defender kicks his legs out and back, maintains a choke on his opponent’s
neck, and pulls his opponent backward until his neck breaks (Figure 3-5,
Step 3).
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3-2. STRANGULATION
Strangulation is a most effective method of disabling an opponent. The throat’s
vulnerability is widely known and should be a primary target in close-range
fighting. Your goal may be to break the opponent’s neck, to crush his trachea, to
block the air supply to his lungs, or to block the blood supply to his brain.
a. Strangulation by Crushing. Crushing the trachea just below the voice
box is probably one of the fastest, easiest, most lethal means of strangulation.
The trachea is crushed between the thumb and first two or three fingers.
b. Respiratory Strangulation. Compressing the windpipe to obstruct air
flow to the lungs is most effectively applied by pressure on the cartilage of the
windpipe. Unconsciousness can take place within one to two minutes.
However, the technique is not always effective on a strong opponent or an
opponent with a large neck. It is better to block the blood supply to weaken
the opponent first.
c. Sanguineous Strangulation. Cutting off the blood supply to the brain
by applying pressure to the carotid arteries results in rapid unconsciousness
of the victim. The victim can be rendered unconscious within 3 to 8 seconds,
and death can result within 30 to 40 seconds.
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c. Weight Shift. To counter being choked from above while lying on the
ground (Figure 3-12, Step 1), the defender places his arms against his
opponent’s elbows and locks the joints.
At the same time, he shifts his hips so that his weight rests painfully on the
opponent’s ankle (Figure 3-12, Step 2).
The defender can easily shift his body weight to gain control by turning the
opponent toward his weak side (Figure 3-12, Step 3).
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As the opponent begins a frontal choke (B, Figure 3-13, Step 1), the defender
turns his body and drops one arm between the opponent’s arms
(B, Figure 3-13, Step 2).
He sinks his body weight and drives his own hand to the ground, and then
explodes upward with an elbow strike (B, Figure 3-13, Step 3) into the
opponent’s chin, stomach, or groin.
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3-5. GRAPPLING
Grappling is when two or more fighters engage in close-range, hand-to-hand
combat. They may be armed or unarmed. To win, the fighter must be aware
of how to move his body to maintain the upper hand, and he must know the
mechanical strengths and weaknesses of the human body. The situation
becomes a struggle of strength pitted against strength unless the fighter can
remain in control of his opponent by using skilled movements to gain an
advantage in leverage and balance. Knowledge of the following basic
movement techniques may give the fighter a way to apply and gain the
advantage in grappling situations.
a. Wristlock From a Collar or Lapel Grab. When an opponent grabs the
defender by the collar or by the lapel, the defender reaches up and grabs the
opponent’s hand (to prevent him from withdrawing it) while stepping back to
pull him off balance (Figure 3-15, Step 1).
The defender peels off the opponent’s grabbing hand by crushing his thumb
and bending it back on itself toward the palm in a straight line (Figure 3-15,
Step 2). To keep his grip on the opponent’s thumb, the defender keeps his
hands close to his body where his control is strongest.
He then turns his body so that he has a wristlock on his opponent. The
wristlock is produced by turning his wrist outward at a 45-degree angle and
by bending it toward the elbow (Figure 3-15, Step 3). The opponent can be
driven to the ground by putting his palm on the ground.
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(2) Shoulder dislocation using the elbow. While grappling, the defender can
snake his hand over the crook in the opponent’s elbow and move his body to the
outside, trapping one arm of the opponent against his side (Figure 3-23, Step 1).
The defender can then clasp his hands in front of his body and use his body
mass in motion to align the opponent’s upper arm with the line between the
shoulders (Figure 3-23, Step 2).
By dipping his weight and then pulling upward on the opponent’s elbow, the
shoulder is dislocated, and the opponent loses his balance (Figure 3-23,
Step 3). If the opponent’s elbow locks rather than bends to allow the shoulder
dislocation, the defender can use the elbow lock to keep control.
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CHAPTER 4
MEDIUM-RANGE COMBATIVES
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(6) Nose. Any blow can easily break the thin bones of the nose, causing
extreme pain and eye watering.
(7) Under the nose. A blow to the nerve center, which is close to the
surface under the nose, can cause great pain and watery eyes.
(8) Jaw. A blow to the jaw can break or dislocate it. If the facial nerve is
pinched against the lower jaw, one side of the face will be paralyzed.
(9) Chin. A blow to the chin can cause paralysis, mild concussion, and
unconsciousness. The jawbone acts as a lever that can transmit the force of
a blow to the back of the brain where the cardiac and respiratory mechanisms
are controlled.
(10) Back of ears and base of skull. A moderate blow to the back of the
ears or the base of the skull can cause unconsciousness by the jarring effect
on the back of the brain. However, a powerful blow can cause a concussion
or brain hemorrhage and death.
(11) Throat. A powerful blow to the front of the throat can cause death
by crushing the windpipe. A forceful blow causes extreme pain and gagging
or vomiting.
(12) Side of neck. A sharp blow to the side of the neck causes
unconsciousness by shock to the carotid artery, jugular vein, and vagus nerve.
For maximum effect, the blow should be focused below and slightly in front
of the ear. A less powerful blow causes involuntary muscle spasms and
intense pain. The side of the neck is one of the best targets to use to drop an
opponent immediately or to disable him temporarily to finish him later.
(13) Back of neck. A powerful blow to the back of one’s neck can cause
whiplash, concussion, or even a broken neck and death.
b. Middle Section. The middle section extends from the shoulders to the
area just above the hips. Most blows to vital points in this region are not fatal
but can have serious, long-term complications that range from trauma to
internal organs to spinal cord injuries.
(1) Front of shoulder muscle. A large bundle of nerves passes in front of
the shoulder joint. A forceful blow causes extreme pain and can make the
whole arm ineffective if the nerves are struck just right.
(2) Collarbone. A blow to the collarbone can fracture it, causing intense
pain and rendering the arm on the side of the fracture ineffective. The
fracture can also sever the brachial nerve or subclavian artery.
(3) Armpit. A large nerve lies close to the skin in each armpit. A blow to
this nerve causes severe pain and partial paralysis. A knife inserted into the
armpit is fatal as it severs a major artery leading from the heart.
(4) Spine. A blow to the spinal column can sever the spinal cord, resulting
in paralysis or in death.
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(5) Nipples. A large network of nerves passes near the skin at the nipples.
A blow here can cause extreme pain and hemorrhage to the many blood
vessels beneath.
(6) Heart. A jolting blow to the heart can stun the opponent and allow
time for follow-up or finishing techniques.
(7) Solar plexus. The solar plexus is a center for nerves that control the
cardiorespiratory system. A blow to this location is painful and can take the
breath from the opponent. A powerful blow causes unconsciousness by
shock to the nerve center. A penetrating blow can also damage internal
organs.
(8) Diaphragm. A blow to the lower front of the ribs can cause the
diaphragm and the other muscles that control breathing to relax. This causes
loss of breath and can result in unconsciousness due to respiratory failure.
(9) Floating ribs. A blow to the floating ribs can easily fracture them
because they are not attached to the rib cage. Fractured ribs on the right side
can cause internal injury to the liver; fractured ribs on either side can possibly
puncture or collapse a lung.
(10) Kidneys. A powerful blow to the kidneys can induce shock and can
possibly cause internal injury to these organs. A stab to the kidneys induces
instant shock and can cause death from severe internal bleeding.
(11) Abdomen below navel. A powerful blow to the area below the navel
and above the groin can cause shock, unconsciousness, and internal bleeding.
(12) Biceps. A strike to the biceps is most painful and renders the arm
ineffective. The biceps is an especially good target when an opponent holds
a weapon.
(13) Forearm muscle. The radial nerve, which controls much of the
movement in the hand, passes over the forearm bone just below the elbow.
A strike to the radial nerve renders the hand and arm ineffective. An
opponent can be disarmed by a strike to the forearm; if the strike is powerful
enough, he can be knocked unconscious.
(14) Back of hand. The backs of the hands are sensitive. Since the nerves
pass over the bones in the hand, a strike to this area is intensely painful. The
small bones on the back of the hand are easily broken and such a strike can
also render the hand ineffective.
c. Low Section. The low section of the body includes everything from the
groin area to the feet. Strikes to these areas are seldom fatal, but they can be
incapacitating.
(1) Groin. A moderate blow to the groin can incapacitate an opponent
and cause intense pain. A powerful blow can result in unconsciousness and
shock.
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(2) Outside of thigh. A large nerve passes near the surface on the outside
of the thigh about four finger-widths above the knee. A powerful strike to
this region can render the entire leg ineffective, causing an opponent to drop.
This target is especially suitable for knee strikes and shin kicks.
(3) Inside of thigh. A large nerve passes over the bone about in the middle
of the inner thigh. A blow to this area also incapacitates the leg and can cause
the opponent to drop. Knee strikes and heel kicks are the weapons of choice
for this target.
(4) Hamstring. A severe strike to the hamstring can cause muscle spasms
and inhibit mobility. If the hamstring is cut, the leg is useless.
(5) Knee. Because the knee is a major supporting structure of the body,
damage to this joint is especially detrimental to an opponent. The knee is
easily dislocated when struck at an opposing angle to the joint’s normal range
of motion, especially when it is bearing the opponent’s weight. The knee can
be dislocated or hyperextended by kicks and strikes with the entire body.
(6) Calf. A powerful blow to the top of the calf causes painful muscle
spasms and also inhibits mobility.
(7) Shin. A moderate blow to the shin produces great pain, especially a
blow with a hard object. A powerful blow can possibly fracture the bone that
supports most of the body weight.
(8) Achilles tendon. A powerful strike to the Achilles tendon on the back
of the heel can cause ankle sprain and dislocation of the foot. If the tendon
is torn, the opponent is incapacitated. The Achilles tendon is a good target
to cut with a knife.
(9) Ankle. A blow to the ankle causes pain; if a forceful blow is delivered,
the ankle can be sprained or broken.
(10) Instep. The small bones on the top of the foot are easily broken. A
strike here will hinder the opponent’s mobility.
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(3) Brachial plexus origin. This nerve motor center is on the side of the
neck. It is probably the most reliable place to strike someone to stun them.
Any part of the hand or arm may be applied—the palm heel, back of the hand,
knife hand, ridge hand, hammer fist, thumb tip, or the forearm. A proper
strike to the brachial plexus origin causes—
Intense pain.
Complete cessation of motor activity.
Temporary dysfunction of the affected arm.
Mental stunning for three to seven seconds.
Possible unconsciousness.
(4) Brachial plexus clavicle notch pressure point. This center is behind the
collarbone in a hollow about halfway between the breastbone and the
shoulder joint. The strike should be delivered with a small-impact weapon
or the tip of the thumb to create high-level mental stunning and dysfunction
of the affected arm.
(5) Brachial plexus tie-in motor point. Located on the front of the shoulder
joint, a strike to this point can cause the arm to be ineffective. Multiple strikes
may be necessary to ensure total dysfunction of the arm and hand.
(6) Stellate ganglion. The ganglion is at the top of the pectoral muscle
centered above the nipple. A severe strike to this center can cause high-level
stunning, respiratory dysfunction, and possible unconsciousness. A straight
punch or hammer fist should be used to cause spasms in the nerves affecting
the heart and respiratory systems.
(7) Cervical vertebrae. Located at the base of the skull, a strike to this
particular vertebrae can cause unconsciousness or possibly death. The
harder the strike, the more likely death will occur.
(8) Radial nerve motor point. This nerve motor point is on top of the
forearm just below the elbow. Strikes to this point can create dysfunction of
the affected arm and hand. The radial nerve should be struck with the
hammer fist or the forearm bones or with an impact weapon, if available.
Striking the radial nerve can be especially useful when disarming an opponent
armed with a knife or other weapon.
(9) Median nerve motor point. This nerve motor point is on the inside of
the forearm at the base of the wrist, just above the heel of the hand. Striking
this center produces similar effects to striking the radial nerve, although it is
not as accessible as the radial nerve.
(10) Sciatic nerve. A sciatic nerve is just above each buttock, but below
the belt line. A substantial strike to this nerve can disable both legs and
possibly cause respiratory failure. The sciatic nerve is the largest nerve in the
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body besides the spinal cord. Striking it can affect the entire body, especially
if an impact weapon is used.
(11) Femoral nerve. This nerve is in the center of the inside of the thigh;
striking the femoral nerve can cause temporary motor dysfunction of the
affected leg, high-intensity pain, and mental stunning for three to seven
seconds. The knee is best to use to strike the femoral nerve.
(12) Common peroneal nerve motor point. The peroneal nerve is on the
outside of the thigh about four fingers above the knee. A severe strike to this
center can cause collapse of the affected leg and high-intensity pain, as well
as mental stunning for three to seven seconds. This highly accessible point is
an effective way to drop an opponent quickly. This point should be struck
with a knee, shin kick, or impact weapon.
4-3. SHORT PUNCHES AND STRIKES
During medium-range combat, punches and strikes are usually short because
of the close distance between fighters. Power is generated by using the entire
body mass in motion behind all punches and strikes.
a. Hands as Weapons. A knowledge of hand-to-hand combat fighting
provides the fighter another means to accomplish his mission. Hands can
become deadly weapons when used by a skilled fighter.
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(10) Knife-hand strike to radial nerve. The opponent tries to strike the
defender with a punch. The defender counters by striking his opponent on
the top of the forearm just below the elbow (radial nerve) (Figure 4-11) and
uses a follow-up technique to disable his opponent.
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(11) Palm-heel strike to chin. The opponent tries to surprise the defender
by lunging at him. The defender quickly counters by striking his opponent
with a palm-heel strike to the chin (Figure 4-12), using maximum force.
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(12) Palm-heel strike to solar plexus. The defender meets his opponent’s
rush by striking him with a palm-heel strike to the solar plexus (Figure 4-13).
The defender then executes a follow-up technique to his opponent’s vital
organs.
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(13) Palm-heel strike to kidneys. The defender grasps his opponent from
behind by the collar and pulls him off balance. He quickly follows up with a
hard palm-heel strike to the opponent’s kidney (Figure 4-14). The defender
can then take down his opponent with a follow-up technique to the back of
his knee.
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(2) Repetitive elbow strikes. The attacker on the right throws a punch
(Figure 4-22, Step 1).
The defender counters with an elbow strike to the biceps (Figure 4-22,
Step 2). The attacker follows with a punch from his other arm.
The defender again counters with an elbow strike to the shoulder joint
(Figure 4-22, Step 3). He next strikes with an elbow from the opposite side
to the throat.
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c. Knees as Weapons. When the knees are used to strike opponents, they
are especially potent weapons and are hard to defend or protect against.
Great power is generated by thrusting the hips in with a knee strike; however,
use the point of the knee as the impact surface. All knee strikes should be
executed repetitively until the opponent is disabled. The following
techniques are the most effective way to overpower or disable the opponent.
(1) Front knee strike. When an opponent tries to grapple with the
defender, the defender strikes his opponent in the stomach or solar plexus
with his knee (Figure 4-23). This stuns the opponent and the defender can
follow up with another technique.
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(2) Knee strike to outside of thigh. The defender delivers a knee strike to
the outside of his opponent’s thigh (common peroneal nerve) (Figure 4-24).
This strike causes intense pain and renders the opponent’s leg ineffective.
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(4) Knee strike to groin. The knee strike to the groin is effective during
close-in grappling. The defender gains control by grabbing his opponent’s
head, hair, ears, or shoulders and strikes him in the groin with his knee
(Figure 4-26).
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(5) Knee strike to face. The defender controls his opponent by grabbing
behind his head with both hands and forcefully pushing his head down. At
the same time, the defender brings his knee up and smashes the opponent in
the face (Figure 4-27). When properly executed, the knee strike to the face
is a devastating technique that can cause serious injury to the opponent.
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CHAPTER 5
LONG-RANGE COMBATIVES
Section 1
NATURAL WEAPONS
The most dangerous natural weapons a soldier posseses are his hands
and feet. This section describes natural weapon techniques of various
punches, strikes, and kicks and stresses aggressive tactics with which
to subdue an opponent.
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Do not fully lock out the arm when punching; keep a slight bend in the elbow
to prevent hyperextension if the intended target is missed.
5-2. KICKS
Kicks during hand-to-hand combat are best directed to low targets and should
be simple but effective. Combat soldiers are usually burdened with combat
boots and LCE. His flexibility level is usually low during combat, and if
engaged in hand-to-hand combat, he will be under high stress. He must rely
on gross motor skills and kicks that do not require complicated movement or
much training and practice to execute.
a. Side Knee Kick. When an opponent launches an attack—for example,
with a knife (Figure 5-1, Step 1), it is most important for the defender to first
move his entire body off the line of attack as the attacker moves in.
As the defender steps off at 45 degrees to the outside and toward the
opponent, he strikes with a short punch to the floating ribs (Figure 5-1,
Step 2).
Then the defender turns his body by rotating on the leading, outside foot and
raises the knee of his kicking leg to his chest. He then drives his kick into the
side of the attacker’s knee with his foot turned 45 degrees outward
(Figure 5-1, Step 3). This angle makes the most of the striking surface and
reduces his chances of missing the target.
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b. Front Knee Kick. As the attacker moves in, the defender immediately
shifts off the line of attack and drives his kicking foot straight into the knee of
the attacker (Figure 5-2). He turns his foot 45 degrees to make the most of
the striking surface and to reduce the chances of missing the target. If the
kick is done right, the attacker’s advance will stop abruptly, and the knee joint
will break.
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d. Heel Kick to Groin. The defender drives a heel kick into the attacker’s
groin (Figure 5-4) with his full body mass behind it. Since the groin is a soft
target, the toe can also be used when striking it.
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e. Shin Kick. The shin kick is a powerful kick, and it is easily performed
with little training. When the legs are targeted, the kick is hard to defend
against (Figure 5-5), and an opponent can be dropped by it.
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f. Stepping Side Kick. A soldier starts a stepping side kick (Figure 5-8,
Step 1) by stepping either behind or in front of his other foot to close the
distance between him and his opponent. The movement is like that in a skip.
The soldier now brings the knee of his kicking foot up and thrusts out a side
kick (Figure 5-8, Step 2). Tremendous power and momentum can be
developed in this kick.
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g. Counter to Front Kick. When the attacker tries a front kick, the
defender traps the kicking foot by meeting it with his own (Figure 5-9, Step 1).
The defender turns his foot 45 degrees outward to increase the likelihood of
striking the opponent’s kicking foot. This counter requires good timing by
the defender, but not necessarily speed. Do not look at the feet; use your
peripheral vision.
When an attacker tries a front kick (Figure 5-9, Step 2), the defender steps
off the line of attack of the incoming foot to the outside.
As the attacker’s kicking leg begins to drop, the defender kicks upward into
the calf of the attacker’s leg (Figure 5-9, Step 3). This kick is extremely
painful and will probably render the leg ineffective. This technique does not
rely on the defender’s speed, but on proper timing.
The defender can also kick to an opponent’s kicking leg by moving off the line
of attack to the inside and by using the heel kick to the inside of the thigh or
groin (Figure 5-9, Step 4).
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Section II
DEFENSIVE TECHNIQUES
A knife (or bayonet), properly employed, is a deadly weapon;
however, using defensive techniques, such as maintaining separation,
will greatly enhance the soldier’s ability to fight and win.
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(2) No. 2 angle of defense—check and ride. The attacker slashes with a
No. 2 angle of attack. The defender meets the attacking arm with a strike
from both forearms against the outside forearm, his bone against the
attacker’s muscle tissue (Figure 5-14, Step 1).
The strike checks the forward momentum of the attacking arm. The
defender’s right hand is then used to ride the attacking arm clear of his body
(Figure 5-14, Step 2).
He redirects the attacker’s energy with strength starting from the right elbow
(Figure 5-14, Step 3).
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(4) No. 4 angle of defense—check. The attacker slashes the defender with
a backhand slashing motion to the right side at the ribs, kidneys, or hips. The
defender moves his right arm in a downward circular motion and strikes the
attacking arm on the outside of the body (Figure 5-16, Step 1).
At the same time, he moves off the line of attack (Figure 5-16, Step 2). The
strike must be forceful enough to check the attack.
The left arm is held in a higher guard position to protect from a redirected
attack or to assist in checking (Figure 5-16, Step 3).
The defender moves his body to a position where he can choose a proper
disarming maneuver (Figure 5-16, Step 4).
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(6) High No. 5 angle of defense. The attacker lunges with a thrust to the
face, throat, or solar plexus (Figure 5-18, Step 1).
The defender moves his body off the line of attack while parrying with either
hand. He redirects the attacking arm so that the knife clears his body
(Figure 5-18, Step 2).
He maintains control of the weapon hand or arm and gouges the eyes of the
attacker, driving him backward and off balance (Figure 5-18, Step 3). If the
attacker is much taller than the defender, it may be a more natural movement
for the defender to raise his left hand to strike and deflect the attacking arm.
He can then gouge his thumb or fingers into the jugular notch of the attacker
and force him to the ground.
Still another possibility for a high No. 5 angle of attack is for the defender to
move his body off the line of attack while parrying. He can then turn his body,
rotate his shoulder under the elbow joint of the attacker, and lock it out
(Figure 5-18, Step 4).
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(7) No. 6 angle of defense. The attacker strikes straight downward onto
the defender with a stab (Figure 5-19, Step 1).
The defender reacts by moving his body out of the weapon’s path and by
parrying or checking and redirecting the attacking arm, as the movement in
the high No. 5 angle of defense (Figure 5-19, Step 2). The reactions may vary
as to what is natural for the defender.
The defender then takes control of the weapon and disarms the attacker
(Figure 5-19, Step 3).
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(1) Unarmed defense against No. 1 angle of attack. The attacker prepares
to slash along the No. 1 angle of attack (Figure 5-20, Step 1).
The defender waits until the last possible moment before moving so he is
certain of the angle along which the attack is directed (Figure 5-20, Step 2).
This way, the attacker cannot change his attack in response to movement by
the defender.
When the defender is certain that the attack is committed along a specific
angle (No. 1, in this case), he moves to the inside of the attacker and gouges
his eyes (Figure 5-20, Step 2) while the other hand redirects and controls the
weapon. He maintains control of the weapon and lunges his entire body
weight into the eye gouge to drive the attacker backward and off balance. The
defender now ends up with the weapon, and the attacker is in a poor recovery
position (Figure 5-20, Step 3).
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(2) Unarmed defense against No. 2 angle of attack. The attacker makes a
diagonal slash along the No. 2 angle of attack (Figure 5-21, Step 1). Again,
the defender waits until he is sure of the attack before moving.
The defender then moves to the outside of the attacker and counterattacks
with a thumb jab into the right armpit (Figure 5-21, Step 2). He receives the
momentum of the attacking weapon and controls it with his free hand.
He uses the attacker’s momentum against him by pulling the weapon in the
direction it is going with one hand and pushing with his thumb of the other
hand (Figure 5-21, Step 3). The attacker is completely off balance, and the
defender can gain control of the weapon.
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(3) Unarmed defense against No. 3 angle of attack. The attacker directs a
horizontal slash along the No. 3 angle of attack (Figure 5-22, Step 1).
The defender turns and moves to the inside of the attacker; he then strikes
with his thumb into the jugular notch (Figure 5-22, Step 2).
His entire body mass is behind the thumb strike and, coupled with the
incoming momentum of the attacker, the strike drives the attacker’s head
backward and takes his balance (Figure 5-22, Step 3).
The defender turns his body with the momentum of the weapon’s attack to
strip the weapon from the attacker’s grip (Figure 5-22, Step 4).
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(5) Unarmed defense against low No. 5 angle of attack. The attacker thrusts
the bayonet at the stomach of the defender (Figure 5-24, Step 1).
The defender shifts his body to the side to avoid the attack and to gouge the
eyes of the attacker (Figure 5-24, Step 2).
The defender’s free hand maintains control of and strips the weapon from the
attacker as he is driven backward with the eye gouge (Figure 5-24, Step 3).
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(6) Unarmed defense against high No. 5 angle of attack. The attacker
delivers a thrust to the throat of the defender (Figure 5-25, Step 1).
The defender then shifts to the side to avoid the attack, parries the thrust, and
controls the weapon with his trail hand (Figure 5-25, Step 2).
He then shifts his entire body mass forward over the lead foot, slamming a
forearm strike into the attacker’s throat (Figure 5-25, Step 3).
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Section III
OFFENSIVE TECHNIQUES
At ranges of 10 meters or more in most combat situations, small arms
and grenades are the weapons of choice. However, in some scenarios,
today’s combat soldier must engage the enemy in confined areas, such
as trench clearing or room clearing where noncombatants are present
or when silence is necessary. In these instances, the bayonet or knife
may be the ideal weapon to dispatch the enemy. Other than the side
arm, the knife is the most lethal weapon in close-quarter combat.
5-8. BAYONET/KNIFE
As the bayonet is an integral part of the combat soldier’s equipment, it is
readily available for use as a multipurpose weapon. The bayonet produces a
terrifying mental effect on the enemy when in the hands of a well-trained and
confident soldier. The soldier skilled in the use of the knife also increases his
ability to defend against larger opponents and multiple attackers. Both these
skills increase his chances of surviving and accomplishing the mission.
(Although the following paragraphs say “knife,” the information also applies
to bayonets.)
a. Grips. The best way to hold the knife is either with the straight grip or
the reverse grip.
(1) Straight Grip. Grip the knife in the strong hand by forming a vee
and by allowing the knife to fit naturally, as in gripping for a handshake.
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The handle should lay diagonally across the palm. Point the blade toward the
enemy, usually with the cutting edge down. The cutting edge can also be held
vertically or horizontally to the ground. Use the straight grip when thrusting
and slashing.
(2) Reverse Grip. Grip the knife with the blade held parallel with the
forearm, cutting edge facing outward. This grip conceals the knife from the
enemy’s view. The reverse grip also affords the most power for lethal
insertion. Use this grip for slashing, stabbing, and tearing.
b. Stances. The primary stances are the knife fighter’s stance and the
modified stance.
(1) Knife fighter’s
stance. In this stance, the
fighter stands with his feet
about shoulder-width
apart, dominant foot
toward the rear. About
70 percent of his weight is
on the front foot and 30
percent on the rear foot.
He stands on the balls of
both feet and holds the
knife with the straight grip.
The other hand is held
close to his body where
it is ready to use, but
protected (Figure 5-27).
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c. Low No. 5 Angle. In the next sequence, the attacker on the right lunges
to the stomach along a low No. 5 angle of attack.
The defender on the left moves his body off the line of attack while parrying
and slashing the wrist of the attacking knife hand as he redirects the arm
(Figure 5-31, Step 1).
After he slashes the wrist of his attacker, the defender continues to move
around the outside and stabs the attacker’s armpit (Figure 5-31, Step 2).
He retracts his knife from the armpit, continues his movement around the
attacker, and slices his hamstring (Figure 5-31, Step 3).
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d. Optional Low No. 5 Angle. The attacker on the right lunges to the
stomach of his opponent (the defender) along the low No. 5 angle of attack.
The defender moves his body off the line of attack of the knife. Then he turns
and, at the same time, delivers a slash to the attacker’s throat along the No. 1
angle of attack (Figure 5-32, Step 1).
The defender immediately follows with another slash to the opposite side of
the attacker’s throat along the No. 2 angle of attack (Figure 5-32, Step 2).
The attacker is finished as the opponent on the left (defender) continues to
slice across the abdomen with a stroke along the No. 3 angle (Figure 5-32,
Step 3).
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(a) Take a step forward and to the side with your left foot so that your
feet are a comfortable distance apart.
(b) Hold your body erect or bend slightly forward at the waist. Flex your
knees and balance your body weight on the balls of your feet. Your right
forearm is roughly parallel to the ground. Hold the left arm high, generally
in front of the left shoulder. Maintain eye-to-eye contact with your opponent,
watching his weapon and body through peripheral vision.
(c) Hold your rifle diagonally across your body at a sufficient distance
from the body to add balance and protect you from enemy blows. Grasp the
weapon in your left hand just below the upper sling swivel, and place the right
hand at the small of the stock. Keep the sling facing outward and the cutting
edge of the bayonet toward your opponent. The command is, ATTACK
POSITION, MOVE. The instructor gives the command, and the soldiers
perform the movement.
(2) Relaxed position. The
relaxed position (Figure 5-41)
gives the soldier a chance to
rest during training. It also
allows him to direct his
attention toward the instructor
as he discusses and demon-
strates the positions and
movements. To assume the
relaxed position from the
attack position, straighten the
waist and knees and lower the
rifle across the front of your
body by extending the arms
downward. The command is,
RELAX. The instructor gives
the command, and the soldiers
perform the movement.
e. Movements. The soldier
will instinctively strike at
openings and become
aggressive in his attack once he
has learned to relax and has
developed instinctive reflexes.
His movements do not have to
be executed in any prescribed
order. He will achieve balance
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in his movements, be ready to strike in any direction, and keep striking until
he has disabled his opponent. There are two basic movements used
throughout bayonet instruction: the whirl and the crossover. These
movements develop instant reaction to commands and afford the instructor
maximum control of the training formation while on the training field.
(1) Whirl movement. The whirl (Figure 5-42, Steps 1,2, and 3), properly
executed, allows the rifle-bayonet fighter to meet a challenge from an
opponent attacking him from the rear. At the completion of a whirl, the rifle
remains in the attack position. The instructor explains and demonstrates how
to spin your body around by pivoting on the ball of the leading foot in the
direction of the leading foot, thus facing completely about. The command is,
WHIRL. The instructor gives the command, and the soldiers perform the
movement.
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pass your opponent so that your right shoulder passes his right shoulder,
continue moving forward about six steps, halt, and without command, execute
the whirl. Remain in the attack position and wait for further commands. The
command is, CROSSOVER. The instructor gives the command, and the
soldiers perform the movement.
NOTE: Left-handed personnel cross left shoulder to left shoulder.
(3) Attack movements. There are four attack movements designed to
disable or capture the opponent: thrust, butt stroke, slash, and smash. Each
of these movements may be used for the initial attack or as a follow-up should
the initial movement fail to find its mark. The soldiers learn these movements
separately. They will learn to execute these movements in a swift and
continuous series during subsequent training. During all training, the
emphasis will be on conducting natural, balanced movements to effectively
damage the target. Precise, learned movements will not be stressed.
(a) Thrust. The objective is to disable or capture an opponent by
thrusting the bayonet blade into a vulnerable part of his body. The thrust is
especially effective in areas where movement is restricted—for example,
trenches, wooded areas, or built-up areas. It is also effective when an
opponent is lying on the ground or in a fighting position. The instructor
explains and demonstrates how to lunge forward on your leading foot without
losing your balance (Figure 5-43, Step 1) and, at the same time, drive the
bayonet with great force into any unguarded part of your opponent’s body.
To accomplish this, grasp the rifle firmly with both hands and pull the stock
in close to the right hip; partially extend the left arm, guiding the point of the
bayonet in the general direction of the opponent’s body (Figure 5-43, Step 2).
Quickly complete the extension of the arms and body as the leading foot
strikes the ground so that the bayonet penetrates the target (Figure 5-43,
Step 3).
To withdraw the bayonet, keep your feet in place, shift your body weight to the
rear, and pull rearward along the same line of penetration (Figure 5-43, Step 4).
Next, assume the attack position in preparation to continue the assault
(Figure 5-43, Step 5).
This movement is taught by the numbers in three phases:
1. THRUST AND HOLD, MOVE.
2. WITHDRAW AND HOLD, MOVE.
3. ATTACK POSITION, MOVE.
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(4) Defensive movements. At times, the soldier may lose the initiative and
be forced to defend himself. He may also meet an opponent who does not
present a vulnerable area to attack. Therefore, he must make an opening by
initiating a parry or block movement, then follow up with a vicious attack.
The follow-up attack is immediate and violent.
CAUTION
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Parry left. If your opponent carries his weapon on his right hip
(right-handed), you will parry it to your left. In execution, step
forward with your leading foot (Figure 5-49, Step 1), strike the
opponent’s rifle (Figure 5-49, Step 2), deflecting it to your left
(Figure 5-49, Step 3), and follow up with a thrust, slash, or butt
stroke.
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A supplementary parry left is the follow-up attack (Figure 5-50, Steps 1,2,3,
4, and 5).
Recovery. Immediately return to the attack position after completing
each parry and follow-up attack.
The movement is taught by the numbers in three phases:
1. PARRY RIGHT (OR LEFT), MOVE.
2. THRUST MOVE.
3. ATTACK POSITION, MOVE.
At combat speed, the command is, PARRY RIGHT (LEFT) or PARRY
(RIGHT OR LEFT) WITH FOLLOW-UP ATTACK. The instructor gives
the commands, and the soldiers perform the movements.
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(b) Block. When surprised by an opponent, the block is used to cut off
the path of his attack by making weapon-to-weapon contact. A block must
always be followed immediately with a vicious attack. The instructor explains
and demonstrates how to extend your arms using the center part of your rifle
as the strike area, and cut off the opponent’s attack by making
weapon-to-weapon contact. Strike the opponent’s weapon with enough
power to throw him off balance.
High block (Figure 5-51, Steps 1,2, and 3). Extend your arms
upward and forward at a 45-degree angle. This action deflects an
opponent’s slash movement by causing his bayonet or upper part of
his rifle to strike against the center part of your rifle.
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Low block (Figure 5-52, Steps 1,2, and 3). Extend your arms
downward and forward about 15 degrees from your body. This
action deflects an opponent’s butt stroke aimed at the groin by
causing the lower part of his rifle stock to strike against the center
part of your rifle.
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Side block (Figure 5-53, Steps 1 and 2). Extend your arms with the
left hand high and right hand low, thus holding the rifle vertical.
This block is designed to stop a butt stroke aimed at your upper
body or head. Push the rifle to your left to cause the butt of the
opponent’s rifle to strike the center portion of your rifle.
Recovery. Counterattack each block with a thrust, butt stroke, smash,
or slash.
Blocks are taught by the numbers in two phases:
1. HIGH (LOW) or (SIDE) BLOCK.
2. ATTACK POSITION, MOVE.
At combat speed, the command is the same. The instructor gives the
commands, and the soldiers perform the movement.
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(b) The modified slash (Figure 5-55, Steps 1,2,3, and 4) is identical to
the slash (as described in paragraph (3)(c)) with the exception of the right
hand grasping the pistol grip.
(6) Follow-up movements. Follow-up movements are attack movements
that naturally follow from the completed position of the previous movement.
If the initial thrust, butt stroke, smash, or slash fails to make contact with the
opponent’s body, the soldier should instinctively follow up with additional
movements until he has disabled or captured the opponent. It is important
to follow-up the initial attack with another aggressive action so the initiative
is not lost. The instructor explains and demonstrates how instinct should
govern your selection of a specific follow-up movement. For example—
PARRY LEFT, BUTT STROKE TO THE HEAD, SMASH, SLASH,
ATTACK POSITION.
PARRY LEFT, SLASH, BUTT STROKE TO THE KIDNEY,
ATTACK POSITION.
PARRY RIGHT THRUST, BUTT STROKE TO THE GROIN,
SLASH, ATTACK POSITION.
Two examples of commands using follow-up movements are—
PARRY LEFT (soldier executes), THRUST (soldier executes),
BUTT STROKE TO THE HEAD (soldier executes), SMASH
(soldier executes), SLASH (soldier executes), ATTACK POSITION
(soldier assumes the attack position).
THRUST (soldier executes), THRUST (soldier executes), THRUST
(soldier executes), BUTT STROKE TO THE GROIN (soldier
executes), SLASH (soldier executes), ATTACK POSITION (soldier
assumes the attack position).
All training will stress damage to the target and violent action, using natural
movements as opposed to precise, stereotyped movements. Instinctive,
aggressive action and balance are the keys to offense with the rifle and
bayonet.
NOTE: For training purposes, the instructor may and should mix up the
series of movements.
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Section IV
FIELD-EXPEDIENT WEAPONS
To survive, the soldier in combat must be able to deal with any situation
that develops. His ability to adapt any nearby object for use as a
weapon in a win-or-die situation is limited only by his ingenuity and
resourcefulness. Possible weapons, although not discussed herein,
include ink pens or pencils; canteens tied to string to be swung; snap
links at the end of sections of rope; kevlar helmets; sand, rocks, or
liquids thrown into the enemy’s eyes; or radio antennas. The following
techniques demonstrate a few expedient weapons that are readily
available to most soldiers for defense and counterattack against the
bayonet and rifle with fixed bayonet.
5-11. ENTRENCHING TOOL
Almost all soldiers carry the entrenching tool. It is a versatile and formidable
weapon when used by a soldier with some training. It can be used in its
straight position—locked out and fully extended-or with its blade bent in a
90-degree configuration.
a. To use the entrenching tool against a rifle with fixed bayonet, the
attacker lunges with a thrust to the stomach of the defender along a low No. 5
angle of attack (Figure 5-56, Step 1).
The defender moves just outside to avoid the lunge and meets the attacker’s
arm with the blade of the fully extended entrenching tool (Figure 5-56,
Step 2).
The defender gashes all the way up the attacker’s arm with the force of both
body masses coming together. The hand gripping the entrenching tool is
given natural protection from the shape of the handle. The defender
continues pushing the blade of the entrenching tool up and into the throat of
the attacker, driving him backward and downward (Figure 5-56, Step 3).
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c. In the next two sequences, the entrenching tool is used in the bent
configuration—that is, the blade is bent 90 degrees to the handle and locked
into place.
(1) The attacker tries to stick the bayonet into the chest of the defender
(Figure 5-58, Step 1).
When the attack comes, the defender moves his body off the line of attack by
stepping to the outside. He allows his weight to shift forward and uses the
blade of the entrenching tool to drag along the length of the weapon, scraping
the attacker’s arm and hand (Figure 5-58, Step 2). The defender’s hand is
protected by the handle’s natural design.
He continues to move forward into the attacker, strikes the point of the blade
into the jugular notch, and drives it downward (Figure 5-58, Step 3).
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(2) The attacker lunges with a fixed bayonet along the No. 5 angle of
attack (Figure 5-59, Step 1).
The defender then steps to the outside to move off the line of attack and turns;
he strikes the point of the blade of the entrenching tool into the side of the
attacker’s throat (Figure 5-59, Step 2).
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c. When the attacker thrusts with a knife to the stomach of the defender
with a low No. 5 angle of attack, the defender moves off the line of attack to
the outside and strikes vigorously downward onto the attacking wrist, hand,
or arm (Figure 5-60, Step 1).
The defender then moves forward, thrusts the tip of the stick into the jugular
notch of the attacker (Figure 5-60, Step 2), and drives him to the ground with
his body weight—not his upper body strength (Figure 5-60, Step 3).
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d. When using a three-foot stick against a rifle with fixed bayonet, the
defender grasps the stick with two hands, one at each end, as the attacker
thrusts forward to the chest (Figure 5-61, Step 1).
He steps off the line of attack to the outside and redirects the weapon with
the stick (Figure 5-61, Step 2).
He then strikes forward with the forearm into the attacker’s throat
(Figure 5-61, Step 3). The force of the two body weights coming together is
devastating. The attacker’s neck is trapped in the notch formed by the stick
and the defender’s forearm.
Using the free end of the stick as a lever, the defender steps back and uses his
body weight to drive the attacker to the ground. The leverage provided by
the stick against the neck creates a tremendous choke with the forearm, and
the attacker loses control completely (Figure 5-61, Step 4).
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b. When the attacker thrusts with a fixed bayonet (Figure 5-63, Step 1),
the defender moves off the line of attack and uses the rope to redirect the
weapon (Figure 5-63, Step 2).
Then, he moves forward and encircles the attacker’s throat with the rope
(Figure 5-63, Step 3).
He continues moving to unbalance the attacker and strangles him with the rope
(Figure 5-63, Step 4).
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c. The 3-foot rope can also be a useful tool against an unarmed opponent.
The defender on the left prepares for an attack by gripping the rope between
his hands (Figure 5-64, Step 1).
When the opponent on the right attacks, the defender steps completely off
the line of attack and raises the rope to strike the attacker’s face (Figure 5-64,
Step 2).
He then snaps the rope to strike the attacker either across the forehead, just
under the nose, or under the chin by jerking his hands forcefully apart. The
incoming momentum of the attacker against the rope will snap his head
backward, will probably break his neck, or will at least knock him off his feet
(Figure 5-64, Step 3).
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CHAPTER 6
TRANSITION TECHNIQUES
In battle, when a combat soldier closes with the enemy to within small-arms
and grenade range, and he has exhausted his ammunition or his weapon fails to
fire, the fluidity of the battle may dictate that he will become engaged in
hand-to-hand combat.
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(6) Use the momentum of the force against the attacker. With this option,
the hand-to-hand fighter uses the attacker’s momentum against him to gain
control of his balance or to expose weaknesses in his defense. The soldier
can add his own force to that of the attacker to increase the power and damage
effect.
e. A soldier must develop the intuitive ability to change counterattack
techniques according to his range from the enemy—that is, long, medium, or
close range. He is then more likely to sense weaknesses in the defensive
sphere of his opponent and to respond instinctively with the most effective
body movement and weapon for the range—moment by moment. The
soldier using any of these six options, or combinations of them, to react to an
attack with proper timing and distance, as well as swift counterattack will
emerge victorious in a hand-to-hand confrontation.
6-3
CHAPTER 7
SENTRY REMOVAL
7-2. REHEARSALS
Reproduce and rehearse the scenario of the mission as closely as possible to
the execution phase. Conduct the rehearsal on similar terrain, using sentries,
the time schedule, and the contingency plan. Use all possible infiltration and
exfiltration routes to determine which may be the best.
7-3. EXECUTION
When removing a sentry, the soldier uses his stalking skills to approach the
enemy undetected. He must use all available concealment and keep his
silhouette as low as possible.
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a. When stepping, the soldier places the ball of his lead foot down first
and checks for stability and silence of the surface to be crossed. He then
lightly touches the heel of his lead foot. Next, he transfers his body weight to
his lead foot by shifting his body forward in a relaxed manner. With the weight
on the lead foot, he can bring his rear foot forward in a similar manner.
b. When approaching the sentry, the soldier synchronizes his steps and
movement with the enemy’s, masking any sounds. He also uses background
noises to mask his sounds. He can even follow the sentry through locked
doors this way. He is always ready to strike immediately if he is discovered.
He focuses his attention on the sentry’s head since that is where the sentry
generates all of his movement and attention. However, it is important not to
stare at the enemy because he may sense the stalker’s presence through a
sixth sense. He focuses on the sentry’s movements with his peripheral vision.
He gets to within 3 or 4 feet and at the proper moment makes the kill as
quickly and silently as possible.
c. The attacker’s primary focus is to summon all of his mental and physical
power to suddenly explode onto the target. He maintains an attitude of
complete confidence throughout the execution. He must control fear and
hesitation because one instant of hesitation could cause his defeat and
compromise the entire mission.
7-5. TECHNIQUES
The following techniques are proven and effective ways to remove sentries.
A soldier with moderate training can execute the proper technique for his
situation, when he needs to.
a. Brachial Stun, Throat Cut. This technique relies on complete mental
stunning to enable the soldier to cut the sentry’s throat, severing the trachea
and carotid arteries. Death results within 5 to 20 seconds. Some sounds are
emitted from the exposed trachea, but the throat can be cut before the sentry
can recover from the effect of the stunning strike and cry out. The soldier
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silently approaches to within striking range of the sentry (Figure 7-1, Step 1).
The soldier strikes the side of the sentry’s neck with the knife butt or a hammer
fist strike (Figure 7-1, Step 2), which completely stuns the sentry for three to
seven seconds. He then uses his body weight to direct the sentry’s body to
sink in one direction and uses his other hand to twist the sentry’s head to the
side, deeply cutting the throat across the front in the opposite direction
(Figure 7-1, Step 3). He executes the entire length of the blade in a slicing
motion. The sentry’s sinking body provides most of the force—not the
soldier’s upper-arm strength (Figure 7-1, Step 4).
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b. Kidney Stab, Throat Cut. This technique relies on a stab to the kidney
(Figure 7-2, Step 1) to induce immediate shock. The kidney is relatively
accessible and by inducing shock with such a stab, the soldier has the time to
cut the sentry’s throat. The soldier completes his stalk and stabs the kidney
by pulling the sentry’s balance backward and downward and inserts the knife
upward against his weight. The sentry will possibly gasp at this point, but
shock immediately follows. By using the sentry’s body weight that is falling
downward and turning, the soldier executes a cut across the front of the throat
(Figure 7-2, Step 2). This completely severs the trachea and carotid arteries.
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g. Neck Break With Sentry Helmet. The soldier can break the sentry’s
neck by vigorously snatching back and down on the sentry’s helmet
(Figure 7-7, Step 1) while forcing the sentry’s body weight forward with a knee
strike (Figure 7-7, Step 2). The chin strap of the helmet must be fastened for
this technique to work.
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h. Knockout With Helmet. The sentry’s helmet is stripped from his head
and used by the soldier to knock him out (Figure 7-8, Step 1). The soldier
uses his free hand to stabilize the sentry during the attack. This technique
can only be used when the sentry’s chin strap is loose. The preferred target
area for striking with the helmet is at the base of the skull or on the temple
(Figure 7-8, Step 2).
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7-11
APPENDIX A
PUGIL TRAINING
Section I
EQUIPMENT
Pugil equipment consists of the pugil stick and protective gear that is
especially designed to protect the soldier during training. It allows the
soldier to participate in pugil training without incurring or fearing
injury. Participation with no fear of injury helps the soldier to develop
an individual style of fighting and improve his ability to fight with the
rifle and bayonet. Pugil equipment (Figure A-1) is designed to
prevent injuries to the head and face, chest, groin, and hands.
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A-2. HEADGEAR
Headgear consists of a
regulation football helmet
with a face mask attached
(Figure A-2). When pur-
chasing these helmets, you
should consider the varying
head sizes of individuals. For
each 100 helmets purchased,
it is recommended that
10 percent be 6 1/2 to 6 3/4 in
size, 80 percent be 6 7/8 to 7 1/8
in size, and 10 percent be 7 1/4
to 7 1/2 in size. Adjust helmets
that are too large for an
individual by adding foam
rubber to the inside of the
helmet. To secure the helmet to
the head, use a chin strap made
of vinyl plastic and foam
rubber.
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CAUTION
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Section II
TECHNIQUES
Pugil training is a way to teach the soldier to use the rifle-bayonet with
confidence and aggression. After the soldier becomes skilled in the
basic positions and movements with the rifle-bayonet, he should be
introduced to pugil training techniques.
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A-8. CONTROL,
SUPERVISION, AND
SAFETY
Instructors supervising pugil
training must understand its
values and limitations. The
instructor maintains control
of the bout at all times; his
best method of control is by
blowing a whistle to start and
stop action. He is alert to
prevent wild swinging of the
pugil sticks, and he ensures
that the soldiers keep their
eyes on each other. For
safety reasons, he should
pair soldiers who are about
the same height and weight.
a. Soldiers use only the positions and movements that they have been
taught in rifle-bayonet training. They must hold the stick and deliver blows
as if using the rifle-bayonet.
b. One instructor is necessary for each bout; however, he needs assistance
to supervise the fitting and exchanging of equipment. The instructor makes
sure the equipment fits properly and watches constantly for any loose or
broken equipment. As soon as he sees any insecure equipment, he stops the
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bout to prevent possible injuries. After deficiencies have been corrected, the
round is resumed.
c. The instructor insists that the soldiers growl during the bouts; this adds
to their aggressiveness and tends to reduce tension.
d. Soldiers with medical problems, such as hernias, frequent headaches,
previous brain concussions, recent tooth extractions, or lacerations with
stitches, must be excluded from pugil training for safety reasons. Therefore,
before conducting pugil training, it is necessary to determine if anyone should
be eliminated from participation. Finally, instructors should always be alert for
the unexpected and, if in doubt, stop the bout immediately to prevent injury.
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c. The soldier who hesitates to strike his opponent realizes that defeat
can be quick; therefore, he tries to be aggressive and overcome his opponent
in the shortest possible time.
d. Because training is done in two-man bouts, a squad, platoon, and finally
a company champion may be selected. The instructor should encourage
competition throughout the pugil training program.
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slash, butt stroke. After executing the movement, the rifle-bayonet fighter
pauses long enough for the instructor to make corrections, then he moves to
the next target. The number of walk-throughs depends on each soldier’s
ability to execute the movements correctly. Next, he runs through the course
at full speed, growling and executing the called movements with maximum
force against his opponents. The duties are rotated so that all soldiers get to
act as fighters and as human targets.
b. Human Thrusting Assault Course. A qualification-type course can be
conducted to measure each soldier’s skill. This course should approximate
an obstacle course in length, obstacles, and terrain. The course layout should
take advantage of natural obstacles, such as streams, ditches, hills, and thickly
wooded areas. Soldiers in pugil equipment can be placed among the
obstacles to act as human targets. The rest of the unit, in pugil equipment,
can negotiate all obstacles and human targets, using instinctive rifle-bayonet
fighting movements.
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APPENDIX B
BAYONET TRAINING
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B-3. QUALIFICATION
The qualification course gives the unit commander a means to measure the
skill of his soldiers in the technique of rifle-bayonet fighting. This course
increases esprit de corps within a unit by creating a competitive attitude and
by offering special recognition to soldiers who qualify. Instructors can use the
same course for both practice and qualification. They can also determine
qualification on any assault course.
a. The assault qualification course contains at least four types of targets
(Figure 2-3) to include thrust, parry thrust, parry butt stroke to the groin,
parry butt stroke to the head, or prone target in crater (Figure B-2). It also
has seven types of obstacles as shown in Figures 2-4 through 2-10.
b. The course contains a minimum number of lanes to permit one-half of
a squad to run at the same time under the squad leader, assistant squad leader,
or other designated leader.
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c. For qualification, the soldier takes up the prone position in the rear of
the starting line. At the command, UP, he springs to his feet with his weapon
at the attack position and runs toward the first target. He then negotiates
each obstacle and attacks each target in turn, running the course in the
shortest possible time. The instructor or assistant instructor scores each
soldier individually.
d. To conduct qualification runs of the assault course, the instructor and
the NCOIC or OIC must provide the following:
(1) Supervisory personnel. To ensure impartial scoring and to maintain
high standards for qualification, the instructor details soldiers who are not
members of the unit being tested to act as scorers. He should select scorers
well in advance so the NCOIC or OIC can refresh himself on the subject and,
if necessary, train the scorers. The unit should detail an NCOIC or OIC
experienced in rifle-bayonet training to administer the course. His primary
duty is to assign a scorer to each target and to ensure that the scorer is qualified
to grade soldiers on the execution of the movements for that target. The
NCOIC or OIC has overall supervisory responsibility for the scoring. He
provides each scorer with scoresheets, then totals each soldier’s score for the
entire course.
(2) Scoring standards. Since assault courses at different installations may
vary as to length and number of targets, it is not practical to prescribe a
standard time limit or an invariable number of points for qualification. As a
guide, the NCOIC or OIC can use 30 seconds for each 50 meters of a course
to establish a time limit. However, the total distance covered should be
300 meters. On short courses, it is necessary to rerun parts of the course to
cover the required distance and to attack the recommended eight targets. To
qualify, the soldier must score at least 75 percent of the total possible points
and negotiate the course within the specified time limit. The NCOIC or OIC
should orient each man thoroughly on all requirements for the qualification
course, including the maximum time allowed and the minimum number of
points needed to qualify.
(3) Awards. A basic qualification badge, as specified in AR 672-5-1, with
the bayonet bar to indicate expert qualification is awarded to participants who
attain the qualifying score of 75 percent.
B-4. SCORESHEETS
The NCOIC or OIC uses three scoresheets to record the score of soldiers who
complete the bayonet assault course.
a. Bayonet Target Scoresheet. Target scores are recorded on
DA Form 1770-R (Bayonet Target Scoresheet) (Figure B-3). A blank copy
of this form is located in the back of this publication for local reproduction on
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B-8
GLOSSARY
Achilles tendon—the strong tendon joining OIC—officer in charge.
the calf muscles to the heel bone. OSUT—one-station unit training.
API-assistant primary instructor.
AR-Army regulation. pectoral muscle—muscles that connect the
ventral walls of the chest with the bones
brachial plexus—a network of nerves in the of the upper arms and shoulders.
armpits, supplying nerves to the chest, peroneal nerve—a nerve located near the fibula.
shoulders, and arms. PI—primaty instructor.
POI—program(s) of instruction.
Cardiorespiratory—pertains to the heart and
lung system. PT—physical training.
carotid artery—the pair of main arteries that PVC—polyvinyl chloride
supply blood to the brain via the neck.
cervical vertebrae—neck and upper spine S3—perations and training officer.
bones. sanguineous strangulation—a violent,
clavicle—collarbone. bloodthirsty strangulation.
common peroneal—having two or more sciatic nerves-a pair of large nerves that pass
branches and located between the knee out of the pelvis and down the back of the
and ankle. thigh.
cranial—the skull. solar plexus—the pit of the stomach.
stellate ganglion—a star-shaped mass of
DA—Department of the Army. nerve tissue external to the brain or spinal
DSN—defense switched network. cord.
dysfunction—impaired or abnormal function. subclavian artery—part of the main artery of
the arm or forelimb.
femoral nerve—the chief artery in the front suprascapular nerve-a nerve on top of the
part of the inner thigh. shoulder.
FM—field manual.
TC—training circular.
FSN—federal stock number.
trachea—the main trunk of the system of
tubes by which air passes to and from the
garrote—strangulation with a rope or wire. lungs.
trapezius—a large, flat, triangular muscle on
IAW—in accordance with. each side of the back.
TSC—Ttaining Support Center.
LCE—load-carrying equipment.
US—United States.
METL—mission-essential task list.
vagus nerve—cranial nerves that supply the
No—number. heart and lungs with sensory and motor
NSN—national stock number. fibers.
Glossary-1
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30 SEPTEMBER 1992
GORDON R. SULLIVAN
General, United States Army
Chief of Staff
Official:
MILTON H. HAMILTON
Administrative Assistant to the
Secretary of the Army
02461
DISTRIBUTION:
Active Army, USAR and ARNG: To be distributed in accordance with DA Form 12-
llE, requirements for FM 21-150, Combative, (Qty rqr block no. 0176).