Geoscience Reference
In-Depth Information
Figure 10-25. Thwarting a strangle by inserting a limb underneath the attacker's rope or wire.
Various choke holds are common in the martial arts and have been quite controversial in law
enforcement over the years. But these techniques are most valuable and effective when applied
correctly. These holds apply leveraged pressure against the carotid arteries and jugular veins in the
neck, cutting off blood flow to the brain and can result in loss of consciousness in a few seconds.
Caution: In the case of a carotid artery choke (“sleeper hold”), or a wire/rope strangle, you will
have only a few seconds before loss of consciousness to thwart the strangle attempt with an inser-
ted limb or a counter attack, such as an instep strike, bicycle kick to the knee, or groin strike.
4. Knife. Knife and gun defense are a study all their own. The number-one rule in defending yourself
from a knife attack is expect to be cut. A knife fighter will carve you up and close the distance on
you before you can blink. Many prisoners practice with shivs (makeshift sharpened objects) all
day and they are very, very good. There are systems of study available that can get you into some
sort of even ground, but it takes training. We will assume that the knife wielder is not experien-
ced.Usedistractions andconsiderescapeifyouarewithoutanequalizer ofyourown.Thatmeans
you are facing an edged weapon with empty hands, and have no weapon of your own. Remember
that the weapon is the person holding the knife and not the knife itself. Distance is your friend, so
keep it. Keep your hands close to your chest and body as they will be easy targets if outstretched.
It is common for a defender to let the attacker make the first move. The Duke of Wellington said
to one of his officers, and I paraphrase, “How am I to know what to do if we do not know what
Bonaparte does?” This is good thinking. Be patient. Let opportunity show itself. Sometimes it
is better to let the assailant extend and make the first move. It is vitally important to realize the
deadliness of this kind of situation. You may have only one opportunity for your survival. This
is what the student of war calls “death ground,” and with a knife or a gun this strategy is all too
real. Scream, throw things, kick sand—whatever you need to do to defend your life, for it is all
at stake. Think of your family and your right and desire to live. You will prevail if your fighting
Search WWH ::




Custom Search