Regarding self-defense against weapons, Echanis was correct when he wrote that \u201cthe defense against an armed assailant by an unarmed defender creates a distinct and critical disadvantage integral to the survival of the unarmed soldier.\u201d Weapons are integral factors in lethal capability, and an armed person, regardless of size and physical power becomes a more formidable adversary.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
When it comes to weapons defense, the weapon is the primary concern, as it is what has the most capability of injuring or killing you, and most likely your opponent’s focus will be on using the weapon against you. According to Echanis, neutralization, stabilization, and disarmament of the weapon are the essential factors in survival.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
When it comes to the 4 basic rules in unarmed self-defense against a weapons attack, Echanis taught that the movements and actions must be executed in the exact chronological order he laid them out. His 4 basic rules are, \u201cfirst you must block and redirect the attack of the weapon to neutralize its lethal capability and clear the body of its trajectory of fire and angle of attack. Second, you must stabilize the weapon by controlling the wrist, hand, and weapon of the attacking arm of the enemy. Third, you proceed to disarm the weapon by breaking the joint of the locked extremity or simply by applying power to induce enough pain for control and disarmament.\u201d And lastly, you must neutralize the enemy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Or you can look at them this way:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Echanis also makes a point to warn people that, \u201cNo matter how proficient the unarmed expert becomes at disarming an armed assailant, he will remain vulnerable to even the smallest weapons expert.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
There are other theories and models when it comes to self-defense against weapons. And one could argue about them until the cows come home, and sadly some do. I believe it is more important to study the different models and take what you can to make yourself better than to argue over who or what is right, wrong, or better.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Echanis presents some fundamental concepts regarding self-defense against weapons. Incorporate them into your training, and use them to make your unarmed skills better. It’s the absorb what is useful concept. So please absorb and stay safe!<\/p>\n\n\n\n