The Power of the Slap

The slap, or cupped hand blow, is a great WW2 combatives technique.  In the classic text, Kill or Get Killed, by Rex Applegate, it is shown as an Ear Concussion Blow (using both hands).  This is a very effective and powerful technique with very little complication.  Kelly McCann (aka Jim Grover), a security and combatives expert, gives a nice explanation here.  I also know he really likes using open-palm strikes against the head because it is a “flexible weapon” against a hard target, as opposed to using the bony structure of a fist against the bony structure of the skull.  Check it out:

Defending Against Knife Attacks

I had some interesting questions this week about knife attacks that I did not have much time to address.  Here is Jim Grover (real name Kelly McCann), a security and combatives expert, explaining some principles about edged weapon defense.  Remember that edged weapons can be knives, screw drivers, box cutters, pens, or anything else with a sharp point.  He brings up some interesting points about pre-emptive attacks.  I trust what he says because this guy has really been in the trenches and goes about defense and combatives with a very practical mindset.  Take a look.  (By the way, all his DVD’s as Jim Grover or Kelly McCann are outstanding.  Every time I watch them I pick up on something new).