Axe or Hammer versus knife – Historical European Martial Arts for self-defense

When dealing with a KNIFE ATTACKER, you have some options that could save your life. One of the options is to have a weapon of your own. In this video, I’m using a hammer-like weapon, but it could be anything similar, such as a hand axe or wrench, without changing the technique.

In Europe, the use of A WEAPON OF OPPORTUNITY for self-defense is generally legal, but there are some important exceptions, such as it must be proportionate to the threat posed by the attacker.

🎞️ The techniques in the video:
These two simple reactions (1-fire concept) are last-resort options against a low and high knife attack. If you need to block a knife attack unarmed, things become even more challenging. While preferred strategies involve maintaining distance (even escaping), hand parrying, evading before counterattacking, or using dynamic/static shielding, it’s important to prepare for less-than-ideal situations. A lot of people try to only come with ideal answers to the questions but that is not how reality talks. That’s where our ‘1-fire’ reactions come into play.

✅ 1-fire concept
A ‘1-fire’ is a specific and chronological response to an attack. The initial step entails a defensive action, immediately followed by a riposte or counteroffensive move. Afterward, there is an optional and adaptable follow-up layer, which depends on the attacker’s reaction to your riposte.

✅The Sticky Hook Block:
This blocking technique boasts a rich historical lineage and can be traced in various Historical European Martial Arts (HEMA) treatises. However, we’ve made modifications to it. While employing forceful blocks, we can redirect or stop the attack, which is beneficial. We often utilize standard category blocks and even power blocks, which are even more aggressive and effectively attack the attack. Nevertheless, there are instances where we employ the sticky hook block to prevent the attacker from receiving enough reaction force and momentum to immediately execute another strike, which is a common occurrence in repeated stabbings. This also provides the defender with a brief moment of control, enabling a well-executed riposte.

*By using animation the hook block is not as good visible when done on a real opponent.

Music:
Gesang der Mönche – Es reißt ihn fort vom vollen Leben = It rips him from the prime of life.