TSD's - Take No Prisoners Blog

2012-01-11T20:21:00.000-08:00

HOW TO MAKE TACTICAL DECISIONS DURING VIOLENCE

As many of you know when adrenaline hits making a simple decision can be a difficult thing to do. You’re at an altered state unable to think clear and at times even have a hard time remembering something as simple as your name when it comes to an all out violent attack. Everything is a blur and is absolute chaos.

So unless you constantly train yourself to make tactical decisions during an adrenalized state will you be able to succeed at tactical thinking. So how do you become a skilled tactical thinker?

One way of going about it is the next time your training and going through adrenal stress training (this is mock fighting scenarios with a training partner but without knowing how the scenario will play out so your forced to improvise while fighting at full speed as your wearing protective body armor).

Have someone ask you a series of questions while you are fighting your training partner. Questions like “When is your wife’s birthday?” or “What does 7x7 + 16 =?” What this does is get you to problem solve when you’re under extreme stress as you are fighting and disarming your training partner.

This in turn teaches you how to think through and make critical decisions during an adrenalized state. You will then be able to think tactically when using violence and things won’t seem to be a blur or haze and you will feel in control of the situation. You will be better off on picking and choosing targets when you see openings and be able to see and use objects around you to help you take out your enemy. The bottom line is by training this way you avoid making haphazard decisions on the street which could cost you your life or worse yet the life of someone you love.

Remember your mind is your most powerful weapon and you must train your brain just as much as you train your body so you can use violence effectively and to your advantage.

There’s no such thing as a dirty fighter only an educated one.

Norm Bettencourt

2011-12-10T16:59:00.000-08:00

CAN YOU KILL A MAN WITH ONE OR TWO BLOWS?

Hi Everyone,

In today’s post I would like to discuss empty handed “kill shots” or “deadly strikes” and if they actually exist or work.

First I would like to mention that yes a man can be taken out and killed with a single blow. There are cases where a man has been punched once in the head and has fallen to the ground and has knocked his head on the concrete and has been killed due to this trauma but the reality of this actually happening is very low.

When it comes to successfully using violent trauma to someone many variables come into play. Remember adrenaline increases your pain threshold, prepares the human body for combat by doing a number of things internally to protect the body from trauma (I won’t bore you with the medical terminology and try to show you how smart I am).

Other variables such as the receiver of the trauma defending themselves and moving around making it much more difficult to strike these “kill targets” accurately. Take for example striking someone in the temple the odds of actually taking another person’s life while striking this area is very slim remember in an altercation no one is static, people are consistently moving, dodging, fighting back and slipping strikes. It becomes extremely difficult for most people to strike the temple right on the button. Even if you were to strike the temple with perfect execution the odds of the person dying are still slim.

Realistically it is extremely rare and very difficult to kill with one or two strikes regardless of who you are, think you are or what combat system you have taken. The human body is very resilient and can take on a ton of punishment.

NOTE: Your success of killing someone will increase if you use a weapon to cause trauma to your enemy’s body but this is still not a guarantee for a successful kill.

This can be proven simply by listening to the news and hearing of people who have suffered severe blunt trauma by multiple attackers or multiple stab and gun shot wounds and have lived to tell about them. These are not just 1- 2 stab wounds to vital areas but multiple stabbings occurring 13-15 times to their body.

There are even more extreme cases where people have survived trauma in a high speed motor vehicle accidents or being pinned under a semi truck in a motor vehicle accident. Once again the human body can take a massive beating.

So when I hear of combat instructors indicating that there system teaches how to break necks or shows kill shots with minimal strikes I always shake my head in disbelief and hope people are not hanging on to these people’s claims or else they are going to be in for a very rude awakening.

So my suggestion to reader’s is look into the information you are receiving not by asking questions to your instructor because they are bias but by asking questions to those who know the human body best and those people are physicians. They will set you straight without any bullshit.

Remember there is no such thing as a dirty fighter only an educated one.

Norm Bettencourt

2011-11-14T09:19:00.000-08:00

Back Up Weapons: Useful or Useless?

Hi everyone,

In today’s post I would like to discuss the topic of back up or secondary weapons and how useful they actually are for people that carry one in an event that their primary weapon has been disarmed from them.

I would first like to discuss the reality of how accessible it is to obtain your “primary weapon” during an adrenaline dump/rush situation. Many people assume that if they have a weapon on themselves and if crap hits the fan then it will be easy to deploy and use on their attacker. The fact is that this is far from the actual truth.

When your body is affected by adrenaline the simplest of tasks are extremely difficult to perform especially tasks that are based around fine motor skill which weapons deployment falls under this category.

You can put this theory to the test by striking a punching dummy/bag at full speed and power or spar with a training partner. As you are executing your hand to hand skills have someone yell out “deploy” at any given moment. When they do see how fast you can actually deploy your “primary weapon” of choice. The odds will be that you are slow, sloppy and will fumble around trying to get to your weapon as you’re being attacked. You usually will not be able to deploy it or if you do the reality is that if it were in a real violent situation you would be severely injured to get to it and use it in time.

Now think in terms of trying to obtain your “secondary/back up weapon” in the same given scenario but instead of deploying your weapon from an obtainable area such a belt (primary weapon is usually a folding or fixed blade clip knife etc) this time from an area such as a boot (boot knives are usually back up weapons of choice). What you’re going to find that this is going to be even more complicated and difficult to deploy your weapon during an adrenalized state. You are now going to have to lower yourself down to the ground to reach your boot knife while trying to raise your pant leg as you’re fighting someone off. This position makes you extremely vulnerable to attack.

Many of men have had themselves assaulted without having a fighting chance to deploy their primary let alone their secondary weapon. The only way you are actually going to have success in deploying your weapon is if it is deployed before the physical altercation has taken place (this is where situational awareness is vital) and not during and if it is during the odds of success have been drastically lowered.

Now don’t get me wrong weapons are good to carry but don’t be overconfident with them especially with back up weapons. Bottom line they are only obtainable if you have time to get to them but during the heat of the moment it’s easier said then done.

So the next time your training in weapons deployment try what I have previously suggested but add a twist to it. Wear a pair of gloves preferably Kevlar gloves when practicing drawing and retaining your weapon that way you prevent your hand from being cut. This will give you a realistic feel on how it actually feels when you’re trying to deploy and retain your weapon when under the stress of adrenaline. This will also condition your hands to have better grip strength when using a weapon under stressful situations.

There’s no such thing as a dirty fighter only an educated one.

Norm Bettencourt

2011-10-05T21:17:00.000-07:00

BELT BUCKLE KNIVES FOR SELF DEFENSE

Hi everyone,

In today’s post I would like to discuss belt buckle knives for self defense purposes. As you know if you have been reading my posts for awhile now that I am not much of a fan of folding knives and many of the belt buckle knives come in a folding knife model.

Folding knives take much longer to deploy and open. It takes 2 steps to deploy (pull it out of the buckle area then opening the blade) compared to a fixed blade which only takes one step to deploy (pull knife out of stealth and that’s it). Also you have a greater possibly to losing your knife if you are trying to fiddle around trying to open it especially under stressful situations (fine motor skill which goes out the window during an adrenaline dump). Folding knives are also weaker and much smaller than a fixed blade on a belt buckle knife.

I also prefer a belt buckle knife over any other type of knife such as a clip on knife attached to a belt, pocket etc. This goes with boot knives as well because realistically you are not going to be able to bend down and pull your knife from your boot during an all out altercation. Belt buckle knives are easy to get to when seconds count.

That is why I like this Valois belt buckle knife model because it’s simple and very quick to deploy and feels great in your hand even with such a curvature that exists on the handle. It feels very natural when I am gripping it in my hand.

The knife is completely concealed inside the belt buckle and there is no need to worry when you’re bending over if your going to get your guts ripped out because the stealth is solid and high quality so the blade won’t penetrate through the stealth.

Belt Buckle Has A Hidden Stealth Knife

Belt 1-1/4" wide X 54" long & easily adjusted to any size

Quality Stainless Steel knife with 3-1/2" Blade

Overall length of knife is 7-1/2"

Weight 1.5lbs.

Partially serrated and straight blade

I am not an affiliate of any type regarding this knife but have been using it for the last mouth and feel it’s a great weapon to have for self defense purposes. Just Google “Valois Belt Buckle Knife” and you will find countless sites that sell this product. Prices will vary from site to site. Happy shopping!

Till the next time, remember there is no such thing as a dirty fighter only an educated one.

Norm Bettencourt

2011-09-06T21:52:00.000-07:00

HOW TO MAKE YOUR SELF DEFENSE WEAPONS SEEM INNOCENT IN NATURE

Hi everyone,

I love the quote stating “I rather be judged by twelve than be carried by six”. I myself agree with this quote completely and rather face a judge and jury of twelve and deal with the legal consequences of using deadly force then holding back on my attack and getting killed and have six of my closest friends carry my casket because I was afraid of the legal consequences of my actions if I ended up killing some scum bag trying to harm me or my loved ones.

This goes with what I like to talk about in today’s post. I would like to discuss how to soften things up when it comes to your true intentions with your weapon that you choose to use for self defense purposes in case you go to court for using it. Now regardless if you are in the right or wrong to use your self defense weapon which is the jury’s job to decide it is your lawyer’s responsibility to prove that you were in the right regardless of the circumstances of the situation.

So here are some suggestions that may help your case and make yourself look a little bit softer and innocent in the eyes of the jury regarding your intentions and purposes for using and having your self defense weapon. Now before I begin I would like to mention that I have made a post in the past that goes along with this regarding what to say to law enforcement after you have used force to protect yourself. I suggest you check it out if you haven’t done so already. The post is entitled “What to Say to Law Enforcement after Using Violence”.

Bottom line the post states if you’re asked questions posed by law enforcement after you have used violence to protect yourself state that “I feared for my safety and life and that is why I took the actions that I did”. You then ask for your attorney and state that you will say nothing else until your attorney is present to instruct you.

Now here are some things you can do to make your intentions seem a little softer and innocent when it comes to your intentions on using & carrying weapons for self defense purposes.

If you use a baseball bat as a self defense weapon regardless where it’s stored (car/home) make sure to also have a ball and glove placed next to it so it looks like your intentions for having such an item around is for sport related purposes. By just having a bat lying around can be seen as having bad intentions. This goes with other items such as chains, crow bar, tire iron etc make sure they are stored next to items that relate to them such as tools.

If you carry a knife on your persons instead of carrying a big survival knife which makes you look like a paranoid nut bag carry a smaller utility knife or even a pink knife so it looks like you intentions for carrying such an item is innocent and for work related purposes only. Remember it not the size of the knife that matters but knowing how to use it that counts. Try to also comply with blade length regulation laws in your area.

In many states and provinces carrying pepper spray is illegal. Instead carry perfume or men’s spray such as “Axe” in your purse or man purse bag. Spraying such products into someone’s eyes will burn and impair the person’s vision. You can also place near your doorways at home wasp/hornet spray which can shoot up to 20 feet in distance and will stop an S.O.B from entering your home. Be aware that this stuff can be lethal but once again I will take my chances if it protects my loved ones and me. Air fresheners can be placed around the home as well to use as an improvised pepper spray.

Here is a trick that I teach escorts that will work with females who are having a date in there home. Place a pot of water on your stove and boil the water moments before your date is coming over. Keep the water hot by leaving it on the element. If crap hits the fan pick up the pot and throw the water onto your attacker. This can also be done with any drink in a night club to impair someone’s vision so you can follow through with a more devastating tactic. When walking on the street and your holding a hot cup of coffee or beverage throw it into you enemies face then run or follow through to finish him off.

So all of these items that I have suggested their primary purpose is either for sporting purposes or are basic household items or items designed for your personal enjoyment. They were conveniently around at the time when you were being attacked and due to you fearing for your safety and life were the reason why you picked up these items and used them as a weapon to protect your family and yourself with. Hopefully this will help you look a little softer and innocent in the eyes of a judge and jury if you ever have to use force to protect yourself and hopefully will help the jury buy into your story.

So take a look at what you have around as weapons and see how you can make them blend in into your daily life so they seem innocent in nature to have around.

Till the next time remember there is no such thing as a dirty fighter only an educated one.

Norm Bettencourt

2011-08-04T08:20:00.001-07:00

A No NO In MY Books When It Comes To Self Defense

Hi everyone,

When it comes to combat there are a few principles that I try to emphasis to all my students when they are in an altercation. One principle I emphasis is to avoid bending down or going on top of your enemy (mounting him) when executing your assault on him.

To many times I see inexperienced combat instructor’s leaning over or mounting their enemy or dropping down to the ground to strike or knee the back of their enemies’ neck or base of the skull to take them out. Now the tactic itself of striking the back of the neck or base of the skull is effective, what’s not effective is to lower yourself down to the ground to execute your tactic.

The reason being is that in a street fight there are no rules so by lowering yourself down closer to ground level makes you vulnerable to an attack by multiple attackers or vulnerable to falling over and ending up in a grappling match. Instead stay standing upright on both your feet and just stomp on the base of the skull or back of the neck using the heel of your foot. That way you’re quicker at executing your tactic because you are using the principle based around the economy of movement. Also just incase multiple attackers come into the picture you are in a better position to protect yourself and escape.

So the next time you see a tactic and it involves having to bend over and lower yourself or to drop down to the ground to mount someone try to find another way to execute the same tactic while staying upright.

Remember there’s no such thing as a dirty fighter only an educated one.

Norm Bettencourt

2011-07-15T12:57:00.000-07:00

Desensitizing Yourself To Violence

Hi everyone,

If you have been reading my posts for a while you know how much emphasis I place on the mental element of combat. I believe and I can’t repeat this enough that combat is 90% mental and only 10% physical. We need to train our minds to let go of barriers that inhibit us from becoming vile, raw and animalistic when it comes to using violence.

I remember the first time I bit someone in a fight I placed my enemies’ finger into my mouth and bit down hard. As I bit I watched the horror and shock inside my enemies’ eyes. I felt his bone of his finger make contact with my teeth and at that moment in time I knew that if I was going to bite down any harder their would be the sound of crackling bone and the warmth of blood that wasn’t inside my mouth.

I had prepared myself in my training to expect this and to make this event as something normal for me to do just like eating a piece of steak. I was prepared and ready for the brutality that I was to set upon my enemy. When I explain this to new students who come to train with me they all have the same reaction. They tell me that they understand that is something that they might have to do to survive violence but they do not know if they have it in them to rip and tear another human beings flesh off due to its brutality.

This is where the mental training needs to come into play for a person to be able to bite and tear flesh off of another person and be comfortable to have warm blood dripping and human meat dangle from their mouth. Or to be able to stab someone and feel the warmth of their enemies blood dripping on their hand as they penetrate a piece of cold steel deeper into their enemies’ body and watch the life of the person evaporate from their enemies’ eyes as they do so.

These are not tasks that anyone can do and are not like what you see in the movies. They are close quarters and very personal in nature. You need to prepare yourself to be able to do these things. So how do you go about doing this?

1.Go hunting and learn how to kill another animal and skin it. Remember respect nature when doing so by thanking the animal for their sacrifice and only taking an animals life for the purpose of food and not for the excitement of the kill.

2.Meditate vividly on images such as what I have described in this post like biting and tearing the flesh off someone or stabbing someone as you look into their eyes.

3.Look over real life images of someone being violently attacked if you can. There are countless images taken from security cameras in this regard. This will help desensitize you to the horrors’ of violence.

4.View footage from surgery’s or autopsies. Some medical agencies for a fee allow you to view medical professionals dissect a corpse for educational purposes.

5.Train your mind to go into the “Killer Instinct Mindset” when you are threatened with physical violence. More on this at http://www.tactselfdefense.com/fearmanagement.php

So those are just some of the things that helped me along the way to help me break down my mental barriers when it comes to using violence to its full potential.

Remember there is no such thing as a dirty fighter only an educated one.

Norm Bettencourt

2011-06-09T13:37:00.001-07:00

COMBAT EXERCISES

Hi everyone,

I have been getting a few emails asking me what type of exercises I do to stay in shape for combative purposes. Now before I begin I would like to say that you do not need to be in great shape to successfully be able to protect yourself in a violent altercation but it does help. Most altercations only last between 5-20 seconds so you don’t need to train like an MMA fighter doing five, 5 minutes rounds on the bag or in the ring and doing a ton of cardio.

What you want to keep in mind when training is to perform exercises that are functional which simulates real life activities that you will need to be able to perform when you’re protecting yourself. This is exactly how the great warriors of the past have trained such as the Spartans, Gladiators and the Romans trained. This in turn makes you faster, stronger in executing your tactics and you have greater self confidence in your combat abilities. Being physically fit also makes you mentally tougher and more focused then someone who isn’t fit.

You want to perform compound exercises which are great for strength training. They involve multi joint movements that work several muscles at the same time because in reality you will be using multiple muscles at the same time when executing your combat tactics or tasks. An example of a compound exercise would be a squat this exercise works the quadriceps, hamstrings, calves, glutes, lower back and the core. Try to avoid focusing on isolation exercises which only work one muscle group at a time. An example would be the bicep curl which only works the bicep muscle. This way when you’re engaging in your combat tactics or activities such as running away from a group of guys wanting to swarm you your muscles can perform the task at hand without failing you especially in times when you need them most.

So here are only a few exercises that I use that I find is beneficial to my survival skills.

Kettlebell exercises but with a spin instead of using a Kettlebell I use two (one for each hand) 5 gallon water cooler bottles filled with either sand or water. You do kettle bell exercises which are great compound exercises but by using sand or water it makes the weight unstable making you work harder to lift and stabilize the weight. This also has an added bonus by increasing your grip strength.

Note: Another alternative to Kettlebell training is sand bag training or water bag training which is basically an exercise ball filled with water this training also works grip strength at the same time.

Urban running is a great way to condition yourself to be able to escape and evade multiple attackers who want to swarm you. Remember when dealing with multiple attackers your goal is NOT to fight them but to hit and escape. So how does urban running work? Basically run for a distance then immediately sprint for a short distance then begin jogging. Find barriers that you can jump over or go under while running such as benches, climb over fences, run up stairs 2 or 3 stairs at a time you can also scale walls (basic parkour training). To increase intensity put on a weighted vest or a back pack with weight plates in it. This way your body is accustomed to this type of running and overcoming physical obstacles that get in your way allowing you to create barriers between you and your enemies so then you can lose them.

Sprints while pulling a weight sled this increases speed and gives you explosiveness you can also wear a weighted vest or back pack while doing this.

When performing any basic exercise such as chin ups instead of performing them under hand perform them over hand. The reason being is that when you need to bring yourself up over any type of barrier such as a fence you won’t be using an under hand grip to pull yourself up you will be using an over hand grip instead. To help increase your grip strength when performing chin ups place foam from a swimming pool noodle where your hands grip onto the bar, this will make it harder for you to grip onto the bar and raise yourself up. You can also do this with your dumbells and barbell giving you an instant cheap fat bar.

Neck curls are a great exercise because they help prevent your head from jarring back abruptly when someone tries taking off your head with a knock out punch. Basically grab a pail, tape pipe insulation foam on the handle and place your desired weight inside the pail. You then grab the pail using your teeth and curl the bucket up and down using only your head. This in turn builds neck strength preventing your head from being easily jarred back and also builds jaw strength when biting someone and tearing off flesh down to the bone.

So those are just a few of the exercises that I do to give you an example of how I go about working out for combat. When setting up your own workout routine ask yourself if the exercises you are performing will enhance your combat skills so your muscles are functional, explosive, and strong and can get the job done when crap hits the fan.

Remember there is no such thing as a dirty fighter only an educated one.

Norm Bettencourt

2011-04-18T23:43:00.001-07:00

TIPS ON CHOOSING A SELF DEFENSE BLADE

Hi everyone,

I have been getting a few emails asking me what type of knife I like to carry for self defense purposes. So I have decided to share my thoughts on the topic in this post. Now there are a few things to think about when choosing a knife for self defense purposes and I won’t go into all the topics in this post. Instead I will address just a few very basic considerations that I think about when it comes to my knife selection.

Fixed blade or folding knife? My choice is a fixed blade the reasons why is it’s physically impossible for any folding knife to ever match the strength and rigidity of a fixed blade. Also I don’t like the idea of spending the extra time flicking my wrist to get the blade open (regardless of how fast the folding knife can spring open). I like the idea of being able to grab my knife and be able to use it without any extra movements involved.

Straight / serrated blade or combo? My choice is serrated. Why? Because serrated blades can rip and cut through clothing and flesh much easier then a straight blade. Remember your enemy will be wearing clothing and you must factor in this variable when choosing a knife. I have known a few people who have tried slashing someone with a straight blade and had no success because their enemy was wearing a leather jacket during the altercation; this actually acts like a second skin.

Although serrated blades are harder to sharpen the only time I am going to use my blade is when I have to protect myself or loved ones so there is no need to be sharpening it because it will only be used once, more on this in a second.

I don’t like the idea of a combo half serrated and a half straight blade to get the best out of both worlds (only when choosing a survival knife). The truth is that it is to difficult to maneuver the blade from straight to serrated when urine is running down your leg when you’re fighting for your life.

After using my blade it will also be thrown away. Why? Because the blade is evidence that can be used against me. This also factors in not spending a ton of money for my blade if it is only going to be used once then thrown away. I usually only spend the max of $60 for a self defense blade more for a survival blade but that’s a different topic.

Another factor to consider is if I need a guard or finger ring on my handle. Personally this is a must for me to have. Why? The last thing I want is my hand to slide on the blade when stabbing someone causing injury myself. As an alternative some people will either place rubber or stair tape to prevent slippage on the handle as well. I like the idea of having two finger rings on the blade handle to prevent me from losing my knife during an altercation especially when your grip strength, coordination go out the window during an adrenaline rush.

There are many more factors to consider when choosing a knife (type of steel used etc) feel of the knife in your hand, local laws, your knife fighting style (some style focus on slashing more then stabbing techniques), how you want to be perceived by the courts
(some individuals will carry a little folding knife because it looks less aggressive then carrying a large fixed blade in the eyes of the law).

I wanted to keep this post simple so I just mentioned a few of the things that I consider before buying a blade. Hopefully this will help you make a more informed decision when purchasing your knife. Also remember if the day ever comes that you need to use your knife your knife does the talking not you or it will be turned and used against you.

There’s no such thing as a dirty fighter only an educated one.

Norm Bettencourt

2011-03-11T08:52:00.001-08:00

Subject: LAST CHANCE...plus 3 "weird" survival items!

Everyone's talking about the newest release from the ISCQC
survival organization, the "Social Chaos Survival Guide".

If you haven't seen it yet, you'd better hurry because TODAY is
the last day these 2 FREE BONUSES are being given away at:

http://realselfdefensetechniques.com/go.php?offer=6661313&pid=5
<= Survive Social Chaos!

Since it's release, the #1 question that's been pouring in is...

"What survival items should I be carrying
on me to prepare for a disaster or civil unrest?"

Of course everyone has their own love of certain gadgets.

But while many focus on "wilderness" survival or disaster type
stuff, the "Social Chaos Survival Guide" states that you should
be prepared for more extreme emergencies like:

* Riots
* Looters
* Mass Attacks
* Hostage Crisis
* And other dangers caused by societal meltdown

Now many of you might think this is overkill. That's fine.

But the truth is, you NEVER know when an attack is about to
happen or in what form it will come.

Sept. 11 was a good example of that. And look at all the
demonstrations that are happening these days? It doesn't take
much for these things to turn ugly...FAST!

So here are 3 of the "wierder" items most people don't think
about carrying, that the "Social Chaos Survival Guide" suggests:

1. Mini-Prybar

The number of uses for a pry-bar are endless.

The model the author carries is the "Exhumer 8" from Dead On
Tools.

If you're on the run or bugging out, you can use it for
breaching obstacles, gaining entrance to a door or even
getting out of a trapped car.

Wrap it in 550 paracord and it's a beast of a self dense
tool as both ends are brutally sharp and will seriously jack
someone up!

2. Universal Handcuff Key

As controversial as it may seem to some, you DO want to be
able to escape from handcuffs if you need to.

There are plastic keys now that fit nearly all (or all)
handcuffs universally and take up no room at all.

The "Social Chaos Survival Guide" suggests the one from
Magna Light and the author, Jeff Anderson, has sewn his
pants tag partially closed so it creates a snug pocket to
hide this key.

If you're ever handcuffed behind your back (as in say a home
invasion, hostage situation, etc.), you can easily get the
key and unlock yourself or hand it off to someone else to
unlock you.

3. Security Officer's Badge

The thing about thugs is that they know that the stakes are
much higher if they attack a police officer.

Now, I'm not saying to impersonate an officer, but let's say
you get trapped in a riot as a result of a demonstration
that went horribly wrong.

Assuming that police aren't the target of the demonstrators,
having a badge that looks like an officer's badge could ward
off attackers who think you're just another easy mark as
they rampage through the area.

You'd just take out the badge and tell them to "Back off!
Just go your way and I'll go mine and neither of us need to
make this an issue. Got it?" and then back out to safety as
you assume their agreement.

There's a bunch of other cool items that you should carry as
well.

In fact, the "Social Chaos Survival Guide" actually recommends 29
URBAN SURVIVAL RESPONSE ITEMS to carry with you at all times!

These are all items you would use for survival or during an
"escape & evasion" scenario where you were targeted or caught up
in a violent attack, (such as in a riot or looting as a result of
natural disaster, etc.)

If you want to see all of the items to carry AND how to use them
to survive ANY scenario, then check out their website on "how to
survive a riot" at:

http://realselfdefensetechniques.com/go.php?offer=6661313&pid=5 <= Survive Social Chaos!

Now you'd think that 29 survival items would make you look like
you're loaded up for a trip up Mt. Everest, right?

But actually, no one would ever know you're carrying this stuff!

All of the items fit in a small survival bag (as small as 6"x7")
that you can keep on your person, in a laptop case you have with
you, or included in some other daily carry bag.

It's literally almost like having a Batman Utility Belt on you at
all times!

You can decide what works best for you, but these are some really
great items that you wouldn't normally think to carry but could
seriously save your life under even the most extreme conditions.

Again, check it out now at:

http://realselfdefensetechniques.com/go.php?offer=6661313&pid=5 <= Survive Social Chaos!

You'll never be caught unprepared!

Norm Bettencourt

P.S. - I should also let you know that TODAY is the last chance
you have to grab the 2 FREE BONUSES available right now during
this week's special launch of the "Social Chaos Survival Guide".

These bonuses are worth $54 and they go away tonight so don't
waste any time, ok?

Here's the link one last time:

http://realselfdefensetechniques.com/go.php?offer=6661313&pid=5 <= 2 Extra Bonuses (Today Only!)

Enjoy!

2011-03-09T13:44:00.000-08:00

Subject: "Bodyguard" EVASIVE DRIVING Secrets!

When you think about "self defense", you probably think about
punching and kicking skills... firearms training... edged
weapons... etc.

But violence comes in many forms.

And there's one area that most people don't even consider
preparing for, and it's a HUGE mistake!

For example, what if you were:

* Attacked by a crowd of people at a demonstration?

* Being chased by a driver on the highway who you mistakenly
cut off and he's trying to run you down?

* Targeted by a violent gang out looking for a thrill?

True story.. in New Mexico, gangs initiated new members by
driving around with their lights off. The first oncoming
car that flashed its lights as a "friendly heads up" would
become the "target car". The gang would circle around and
the new member's role was to shoot at the car... no matter
WHO was in it!

These are very real scenarios that you MUST prepare for!

For this reason, you need to include "evasive driving" in your
survival plan.

Now that DOESN'T mean you have to have a fast car and go to
bodyguard school.

In fact, here are 5 tips you can master right now for evasive
driving skills when you're being chased by a car full of
attackers:

1. "Speed" is not necessarily your friend

The one who survives a high speed car chase isn't usually the
fastest, it's the one who doesn't crash.

Watch those idiots being chased by police on shows like "Cops"
and those crazy "caught on video" shows and you'll see that all
the police have to do is follow the perp until he wraps himself
around a telephone pole and then put the cuffs on him.

In a chase, try not to travel over 65mph to make sure you can
handle your car effectively on the turn of a dime.

2. Turn when they can't

Rather than try to outrun someone, let them get close enough to
you and then take a quick, last minute turn in a different
direction.

Action is faster than reaction and if they're behind you, they
won't be able to respond in time to take the same turn you just
did. They'll either crash or have to back up to follow you and
by then, you'll be long gone.

3. If on a highway, take a 4-lane exit

If you're being chased by someone on the highway, identify an
upcoming exit and move to the far LEFT lane.

With your pursuer close behind you, make sure you have clearance
and at the last minute, shoot across all 4 lanes to barely make
your exit. It will be difficult for them to back up, especially
in the left lane against traffic, to follow you.

4. Distract the driver

If you're driving at night, reach under your seat and pull out a
2- to 5,000,000 candlepower spotlight. (You can get these from
any boating or auto store.)

Shine it behind you at the driver and you'll instantly blind him.
He'll likely stop the car out of sheer panic of crashing (which
he may do).

These are just a few of the tricks you can use to escape from
someone while you're in your vehicle. For even "sneakier"
advice, there's a whole section on "survival driving" in a new
book and audio program just released on "escape and evasion
during riots".

The program's website is at:

http://realselfdefensetechniques.com/go.php?offer=6661313&pid=5 <= Click Now!

It's loaded with tactical strategies not just for driving, but
for dealing with ANY situation where you're targeted for an
attack by a group of people.

Here are some of the other strategies the website offers:

* Cheap, easy-to-find, and LEGAL "weapons" you can keep in
your car that can cause a pursuing vehicle to crash or
completely breakdown. (This is real "poor man's James Bond"
stuff!)

* A 12-second "man trap" that's capable of taking out MULTIPLE
ATTACKERS!

* The first person to pick off if you're being chased by a
gang of thugs! (No, it's NOT the leader of the group!)

* 3 weird distraction devices that will shock the hell out of
your attackers allowing you to escape... or ATTACK!

* An ancient "assassin's trick" that will allow YOU to be the
first one to strike and take out at least one or two
attackers right away!

Who could pass up knowing these secrets, right?

That's why I highly suggest you go and check this out now at:

http://realselfdefensetechniques.com/go.php?offer=6661313&pid=5 <= Click Now!

EVERYONE should have tactics like this on hand to make sure
they're not caught off guard by these types of defense scenarios!

Check out that website and you'll see why this is so important!

P.S. - Oh, and if you hurry, you'll see that since the program
just launched this week, there are 2 EXTRA BONUSES being thrown
in for FREE.

But they go away this Friday so don't wait around if this is
something you're interested in, ok?

You'll forget and then you'll miss out.

Go NOW to:

http://realselfdefensetechniques.com/go.php?offer=6661313&pid=5 <= Click Now!

Enjoy!

Norm Bettencourt

2011-03-08T08:42:00.000-08:00

Subject: How to survive during a RIOT!

Now I have to warn you...

What I have to share with you is at first going to seem like some
post-apocalyptic action movie like "The Book of Eli" or the "Road
Warrior".

But this isn't fantasy. It's a real-life threat that can affect
absolutely ANYONE.

You see, with all the social unrest we're now seeing on the
television (in Egypt, Libya, even in the United States during
political upheaval), you could at any time be sucked into a
whirlwind of violence.

Demonstrations can rage out of control...

Riots break out over jury verdicts to sports
championships...

Natural disasters turn neighbors into hunger-panicked
zombies...

Fact is, while we'd like to think that everyone can just "get
along" and make nice.

=========================================

Unfortunately, news reports reveal the truth!

When our social fabric gets unraveled...

...man is typically at his WORST!

=========================================

Looters will break windows, set buildings on fire, and attack
anyone they want without fear of getting caught or being held
accountable for their actions.

We've seen it countless times!

And unfortunately, you can't count on an overwhelmed police force
to help you when you need it the most.

In fact, if you're caught up in the crowd, they may even mistake
YOU for part of the "cause" of the unrest rather than an innocent
victim pulled into the firestorm by bad luck.

=========================================

That can only mean one thing if you want
to survive and protect those you love...

=========================================

YOU must take responsibility for your own survival during times
of social chaos!

Unfortunately, most survival guides don't adequately prepare you
for this type of plan.

Sure, you can learn how to start a fire with rocks or live off
the land by eating roots and berries.

But what about how to...

* Break out of a rampaging crowd before you get trampled

* Defeat multiple attackers who are swarming around your car

* Evade a gang of looters as they chase you through the
streets

* Avoid getting rammed off the road or shot at by a car full
of anarchists

=========================================

And this is where most "preppers" go wrong...

=========================================

You may already feel like you're "prepared" for long term
survival, but...

Rubbing two sticks together isn't going to take care of any
of these potential dangers that await you during civil
unrest and martial law!

Having stockpiles of food at home are only consumable if you
can GET home when caught in the middle of a violent
uprising!

You can only save your family from opportunistic anarchists
if you have the tools and skills to escape the immediate
danger!

What you need is an arsenal of "dirty tricks" for escaping,
evading and SURVIVING during social chaos!

What I'm about to share with you is THE most comprehensive guide
ever produced for the "combatives" side of urban survival.

It's called the "Social Chaos Survival Guide" and it's a brand
new program from the ISCQC, an organization dedicated to
researching and cultivating the most cutting edge survival
tactics around.

You can check it out here:

http://realselfdefensetechniques.com/go.php?offer=6661313&pid=5 <= Survive Social Chaos!

=========================================

But let me be very clear...

...this is NOT your typical "survival manual"!

=========================================

It's a physical book and audio program that's sent to your door
and it's loaded with REALLY cool secrets you've probably never
even thought of!

For example, here are some of the tricks you'll discover...

* A 12-second "man trap" that's capable of taking out multiple
attackers!

* Improvised survival gadgets you can make or pick up cheap
(that really work!)

* How to drive like a Secret Service agent to escape from
pursuing cars.

* The 25 items you should have on you (RIGHT NOW!) to be fully
prepared for an instant eruption of violence.

(Think that's too much to carry? What if I told you it will
all fit neatly on your body or into an ultra small case that
can be carried around practically ANYWHERE and you'll barely
notice it!)

* The very best weapons for surviving social chaos!

* How to scale a 12' wall blocking your way...with NO tools or
climbing devices!

* The best sword to carry for escape, evasion, and fighting!
(Don't laugh! I'm dead serious and when you read this, it
makes total sense!)

Again, I know that this sounds like it's all fantasy, but these
are ALL practical skills that you'll need for when the feces hits
the electrical oscillating atmospheric modification device.

And don't worry whether you're an experienced "prepper" or a
complete BEGINNER.

=========================================

These are cutting edge tactics
that ANYONE can master!

http://realselfdefensetechniques.com/go.php?offer=6661313&pid=5 <= Click Now!

=========================================

Check this site out now and I'm sure you'll see just why this is
so "different" than any other survival program out there.

Norm Bettencourt

2011-03-01T23:22:00.000-08:00

FREE AUDIO: Escape & Evasion During A Riot

You have GOT to check this out!

It's a FREE 2.5 hour audio program on "how to escape & evade"
looters and anarchist gangs during a riot and other forms of
civil unrest!

Nothing to buy or anything...just go and get it now at:

http://realselfdefensetechniques.com/go.php?offer=6661313&pid=5 <= Free Survival Program!

Look, no matter how "prepared" you may feel you are for modern
combat, you have to hear all these tactics for surviving during
times of social unrest!

For example, here are a few things you'll discover in the program
available right now...

On this shocking audio program you'll discover...

* So called "safe spots" you should avoid! (Hint: Your first
thought may be to head to these locations for safety - and
that could be a deadly mistake even if you're injured and
need assistance!)

* Mass attack! What to do when a gang of ruthless rioters are
hot on your tail and have you cornered into a "must fight"
situation!

* The #1 mistake most people make (especially those who
consider themselves "prepared") when they think there's
trouble in the air! You'd like to assume you wouldn't do
this but the truth is, the more skilled you are, the more
likely you are to screw this up!

* A strange (but amazingly effective!) method for turning
"invisible" when you're being singled out and targeted. (Add
these 2 super small items to your briefcase and evade like a
CIA agent!)

* A sneaky trick to slip past military checkpoints unnoticed
to escape to safety...or break back INTO a danger zone to
rescue those you love!

* And a lot more.........

So grab it now and listen to it as soon as you can, ok?

http://realselfdefensetechniques.com/go.php?offer=6661313&pid=5 <= Free Survival Program!

These are tips you could be forced to use at any time and being
prepared means taking action!

Enjoy the program!

Yours in survival,

Norm Bettencourt

2011-02-23T10:24:00.001-08:00

FREE URBAN SURVIVAL WORKSHOP TOMORROW

Forgot to mention if anyone has friends who would be interested in the FREE Urban Survival Workshop tomorrow give them this link to the sign up page

http://realselfdefensetechniques.com/go.php?offer=6661313&pid=5

(Hurry - only 200 online seats available!)

Norm

2011-02-21T18:54:00.000-08:00

Subject: Free Survival Workshop!

Thanks for opening up because this is a TIME SENSITIVE EMAIL I
didn't want you to miss.

This coming Thursday (February 24th), there's going to be a LIVE
online workshop focusing on how to ESCAPE, EVADE & SURVIVE during
times of "social chaos".

We're talking riots... looting... martial law... stuff that's
happened before and is likely to happen again.

Now first of all, it's a FREE EVENT!

Nothing to buy or anything...just go and register at:

http://realselfdefensetechniques.com/go.php?offer=6661313&pid=5 <= FREE Survival Workshop!

(Hurry - only 200 online seats available!)

But besides getting some great survival tips, you're going to be
able to submit your OWN tips for a chance to win one of 2
"S.C.R.A.M Bags" (a version of a "bugout bag" that's meant for
dealing with riots, etc.)

These bags are loaded with everything from environmental
protection equipment... commo equipment... breaching tools...
even weapons!

This is a no-brainer...

* Free Live Event (or grab the recording)
* Cutting edge survival tricks
* An opportunity to offer YOUR survival advice
* And a chance to win a $545 "bugout" bag?

All you have to do is REGISTER NOW at:

http://realselfdefensetechniques.com/go.php?offer=6661313&pid=5 <= 200 Seats Available

Here's a sneak peek of some of the topics you'll be able to
access:

* Real world tactics to survive civil unrest (such as natural
disaster conflicts, demonstrations gone bad, race riots,
etc.)

* How to defeat looters and violent opportunists with nothing
to fear during times of lawlessness!

* Escaping violent mobs! When the police and military are
overrun, anarchy consumes everything in the way...and you'd
better know how to leave a danger zone fast!

* "Target hardening" secrets! During times of social chaos,
the more prepared you are, the more likely you are to be
tracked and taken advantage of! We'll talk about ways to
stay hidden...even in plain sight!

* On the run! When you're being tracked by opportunists who
want what you have, you'll need all the tactics you can
muster to lose them fast and escape to safety!

* And a lot more.........

Don't miss out on this, ok?

I know many of you probably have some killer survival tips that
you've been keeping to yourself and not only could they win you a
cool gear bag loaded with survival items...

...but YOUR tips could possibly save someone's life some day!

Think about it!

I really want to make sure you grab one of these seats so don't
waste any time.

Go NOW to:

http://realselfdefensetechniques.com/go.php?offer=6661313&pid=5 <= Free Registration Page

You'll be glad you signed up!

Norm Bettencourt

2011-02-01T16:02:00.000-08:00

HOW TO CLEAR A BUILDING

Hi everyone,

Today’s post I would like to cover the topic of how to clear a building or how to enter a room when it comes to protecting yourself and family. Now before I begin I would like to say that this is only done as a last resort such as when a loved one is inside a room or building and you need to protect them from an intruder. If your house is empty DO NOT enter go to a neighbors call 911 and stay there.

Clearing a building or entering a room when there is the possibility of an assailant inside is a very dangerous thing to do even for people such as police officers who have trained diligently in this area.

The method that I teach is called “slicing the pie” and there is a great site that has illustrations on how to properly execute this technique. Remember only do this if a loved one is in danger and you need to get to them. Before entering any room or building call 911 tell them that you are going inside and that you are armed. When law enforcement arrive at the scene put down your weapon and listen to their instructions to a “T” they don’t know who you are and could mistake you for an intruder.

Always keep your weapon close to your body so that it cannot be taken from you regardless if your weapon is a firearm, knife or anything improvised. So here is the link for it enjoy.

http://www.wonderhowto.com/how-to-clear-building-with-firearm-083275/

P.S These principles can also be applied to your everyday life when you are walking around and using situational awareness (i.e. taking corners wide so you are not caught off guard and attacked surprisingly etc).

There’s no such thing as a dirty fighter only an educated one.

Norm Bettencourt

2011-01-09T23:48:00.000-08:00

SELF DEFENSE TRAINING GEAR TO HELP YOU SUCCEED

First of all I hope everyone had a great Holiday Season. I know most of you haven’t heard from me in a while but it’s been a little busy here at TSD. I have been busy re-shooting my DVD footage, writing articles, website changes etc.

This first post for 2011 I would like to give you some training tools that have helped me in my combat training. Some of you may already be using this equipment and some may not, what I would like is if anyone has any other suggestions or tips to pass them along to me and I will post them for everyone to see.

All of these items I have used in my training. I am NOT an affiliate or getting any commissions whatsoever for endorsing these products. Some are pricey but I have also tried to give you cheaper alternatives to the same product.

So here are a few training tools and improvised equipment that have made some difference in my combat skills.

Striking Targets/Dummies: The first is a head target glove which I got the idea from one of the combat organizations I belong to. Basically place a focus pad inside a head protector and there you have it. Here is a link for it

http://iscqc.org/escrimatraining/2010/10/26/the-diy-head-focus-glove/

This next item I use religiously it’s a free standing throwing dummy that you can get in different weights/heights. Mine is 150 LBS and is 5”10 a realistic size for an attacker. Mine has taken on brutal striking abuse for years and is still is good as the day I got it. I even placed clothing on it so I could grab it as well. It is also great to perform head cranks on etc and is much more versatile then a typical punching bag. Here is the link below.

http://www.combatsports.com/Dummies/products/1008/

For practicing pipe, pool cue or baton strikes hang up an old tire and strike it. The tire can take a great amount of punishment as you don’t want to strike your heavy bag or throwing dummy with these objects for they will bust them open after a while. As well striking the tire will give you a realistic feel on how it feels to make impact on a human being.

Weapons Training

Knife Disarming: This next training tool is an item I have used that makes knife training very realistic. Unfortunately to be able to purchase this product you must be in law enforcement or in the military. The product is called the Shocknife here is the link for it.

http://www.shocknife.com/

If you can not purchase this product or it’s to pricey you can always use a rubber knife and place food dye, ink or lip stick on the blade and wear an old white shirt so you can see were your partner cut you. This method doesn’t get your adrenaline pumping but will do the job if you can’t get a Shocknife.

Firearms Disarming: This next idea I do not have a link for but you can basically Google an airsoft supply store in your area to find a supplier. Basically I use an automatic airsoft hand gun when practicing gun disarming tactics this way I know when I get shot. Make sure to wear the proper eye and face protective gear when training in this fashion.

Pipe/Pool Cue Disarming Simply go to any local hardware store and purchase pipe insulation. Cut it in half and you have a perfect foam pipe that you can swing full force at your training partner and not have to worry about injuring them.

Protective Body Armor: This next product I have not used personally but it is similar to my own body armor that I have. The gear I have is a great product that protects me when I do my full on scenario training called F.I.S.T (Fighter’s Instinctive Scenario Training). Here the link

http://www.securityprousa.com/porigesetfrs.html

For a cheaper version go to any second hand sports shop and grab some padded motor cross shorts and chest protector, baseball (back catchers) shin/knee pads, elbow pads and martial arts protective head gear. This is not as protective as the riot gear but will do the job if you train using less force.

Improvised Training/Gym Equipment: This next site is a great way to save some cash when it comes to making your own training and gym equipment. Here’s the link

http://www.rosstraining.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=157

If you have any suggestions that you want to share with the rest of us pass it along and I will post it next time.

Remember there’s no such thing as a dirty fighter only an educated one.

Norm Bettencourt

2010-10-21T08:37:00.001-07:00

How To Increase You’re Striking Power When It Comes To Baton Use

One of the important factors when it comes to getting a powerful strike when using a baton is the positioning of your hand on your weapon. Where you position your hand on the handle plays an important factor of how much force the impact of your swing will be.

You want to avoid holding your hand at the bottom or end of the handle. Instead you want to place your hand an inch up from the bottom that way you have a stronger grip and more control of your weapon. This then increases the force of your blow when making impact.

Another suggestion is when practicing your baton striking tactics or any striking tactics with the use of items such as pipes, pool cues or sticks is to wrap a towel around the handle area. This thickens the handle area forcing your hand to squeeze harder when picking up your weapon and striking your practice target. This in turn makes you instinctively have a tighter grip when holding your baton.

Test and play with what feels best for you. Remember everyone is different when it comes to their grip strength, size of hand and the type of baton or weapon they are using.

Note: Push button batons tend to be harder to grip on to due to the fact of how the handle is set up with the extraction button right on it. So keep that in mind if this is a baton you’re thinking of purchasing.

Remember there’s no such thing as a dirty fighter only an educated one.

Norm Bettencourt

2010-09-28T22:52:00.001-07:00

HAMMER FIST CONDITIONING

Hi everyone,

If you have taken my TACT System you realize that I avoid teaching people how to punch due to the fact that it takes years of training to become proficient at it. When you witness people punching in a street fight they usually throw ‘feather punches”. These are punches that have no power behind them because there is no hip rotation when the punch is thrown so no weight is behind it.

So instead I focus on teaching people palm strikes or hammer fists. So in today’s post I would like to show you an exercise that will help increase the power of your hammer fists with a conditioning technique which I found is extremely effective. If you have a wooden beam which stands horizontally in your basement hammer a nail into it so the tip is firmly inside the beam. Get a thick piece of wood that you can comfortably hold with one hand and place it on top of the head of the nail. With your free hand make a hammer fist and begin hammering the piece of wood that is on top of the nail.

Your goal is to be able to eventually be able to hammer the nail flat into the beam using only the power of the hammer fist strikes. A key tip when it comes to striking is this. When it comes to striking most people will strike their target then remove their body part that they hit with quickly away from the target. This does not allow the force of your blow to do maximum damage. Let the body part that you hit with remain on your target for a slight second after impact. By following this technique you will find your blows much more powerful.

Till the next time remember there’s no such thing as a dirty fighter…only an educated one.

Norm “The Cannibal” Bettencourt

2010-09-12T17:22:00.000-07:00

COMBAT QUOTES TO LIVE BY & TIME SENSITIVE INFO

Hi everyone,

In today’s post I would like to share with you some of my favorite combat quotes. I would also like to invite all members to share and post their favorite combat quotes as well.

“K.I.S.S Keep It Simple & Similar”

“Just Because You’ve Trained For A Situation Doesn’t Mean
You’re Prepared For It”

“Practice Doesn’t Make Perfect, Perfect Practice Makes Perfect”
“In The Real World You Are Only Half As Good As How You Train,
So Make Your Training As Realistic As Possible”

“Don’t Go To A Gun Fight With A Knife, You’re Going To Get Killed”

“Don’t Fight To Teach Someone A Lesson Or You Might Get Taught A Lesson Yourself”

“Two Eyes For An Eye Mentality”

“He Who Elevates The Violence Quicker Wins”

“Ruthless Determination Will Overshadow Technique or Choice Of Weapon Every Time & Will Get You Up Off The Ground After You Have Been Beaten, Stabbed or Shot”

Don Pentecost

“It’s Not The Size Of The Man In The Fight But The Size Of the Fight In The Man”

“I Rather Be Judged By Twelve Than Carried By Six”
“There’s No Such Thing As A Dirty Fighter, Only An Educated One”
“He Who Draws & Uses His Weapon First Wins”

“Go With The Flow Of The Blow”

“It’s Better To Die On Your Feet Then To Live On Your Knees”

“The Little Black Book of Violence”

A lot of these quotes are included inside my book Instinctive Combat Self Defense (formerly known as Secrets of Street Fighting). I also go further into discussing why these quotes and other’s are important for your mindset when it comes to surviving violence. Remember your most powerful weapon is your mind.

As you have noticed I have changed the title and cover of the book Secrets of Street Fighting. We have also added some new exciting material to the book as well. We are currently selling it in E Book format. As a special promotion I have decided that all members of the Secrets of Street Fighting Reader’s Group and TACT Tips Newsletter Subscriber’s should get a 50% discount when purchasing the book. So instead of paying $37.00 you get it for only $18.50 USD.

So to make it super simple follow these links below:

If you wish to order the Instinctive Combat Self Defense E book for only $18.50 USD (regular price $37 USD) visit
http://www.tactselfdefense.com/secrets-of-street-fighting-book.php (you can view the E book details on this page)

If you wish to receive my book and 3 disk DVD set for only $73.50 USD (regular price $147) visit
http://www.tactselfdefense.com/combat-self-defense-package.php (you can view the E book and DVD details on this page)

Those pages will give you all the details on the products you are ordering. To order go directly to www.paypal.com and make the payment to tactselfdefense@yahoo.ca when you leave a comment just state that you are a member of the Secrets of Street Fighting Reader’s Group or a TACT Tips Newsletter Subscriber and you are purchasing your E Book or DVD/E Book Package at 50% off.

P.S This offer is time sensitive and will only be valid until September 19, 2010 at midnight (pacific).

Till the next time I will leave you with my favorite quote.

There’s no such thing as a dirty fighter only an educated one.

Norm “The Cannibal” Bettencourt

2010-08-09T22:30:00.001-07:00

RUTHLESS DETERMINATION

Hi everyone,

As you know I believe that you’re mindset is you’re most powerful weapon. For combat is 90% mental and only 10% physical. It all boils down to you’re will or determination to survive. As Don Pentecost puts it “Ruthless determination will over shadow technique or choice of weapon every time & will get you up off the ground after you have been beaten, stabbed or shot”. Most criminals have this ruthless determination compared to the average law abiding citizen who doesn’t.

So when I get countless emails asking me why it seems that criminals always seem to win in violent encounters “determination” is the answer I give them. Your determination alone will regardless of how powerful you’re tactics are will either make you a victim or victimizer in an all violent attack. It is this factor and this factor alone that separates the boys from the men when it comes to knowing how to use violence to you’re advance.

When criminals use violence issues of legal and moral consequences never are factors that they consider. They have no hesitation of seriously harming or killing you regardless of the consequences that they may face. For the average person however legal and moral factors do come into the equation. This in turn creates mental barriers and subconsciously causes the person to hold back when using violence.

So instead of focusing on only your physical training try focusing on you’re mental training as well. Try focusing on what you’re mental barriers are and eliminating them. Also focus on a trigger that makes you have that ruthless determination that will make you the last man standing in an all out violent attack.

Till the next time, there is no such thing as a dirty fighter only an educated one.

Norm “The Cannibal” Bettencourt

2010-07-26T23:01:00.001-07:00

WHAT TO SAY TO LAW ENFORCEMENT AFTER USING VIOLENCE

Hi,

One of the few things covered when it comes to self defense is the issue of what to say to law enforcement after using violence to protect yourself. Most people would speak openly and freely to law enforcement because they are law abiding citizens and feel they have done nothing wrong. The reality is law is not about right or wrong it’s about loop holes. If a lawyer can find a technicality or find that his client’s rights were violated regardless if his client is guilt or not it is his/her job to get them off the hook.

So regardless if you are minding your own business walking to your car at night with your wife and kid. Then all of a sudden 3 armed thugs show up out of no where demanding your cash and there way with your wife. You’re trapped and can’t get away and fight them off and seriously hurt these assholes you could be held liable and charged. So the last thing you want to do coming down off an adrenaline rush is start talking to the cops about what happened. Most people begin digging a deep hole for themselves when they do this.

Bottom line you may be innocent but those insignificant words that have come out of your mouth during the police interview can lead you into a ton of hot water. So let your lawyer do the talking that’s what they get paid for. You do not have to answer any questions that law enforcement asks you. That is a legal right that you have plain and simple. All you have to say is that you feared for your life and safety and that you will not speak to anyone until your attorney is present.

This goes with Canadian Citizens and I believe US Citizens, citizens reading this from other countries will have to check out there countries laws. So remember these words “I feared for my life and safety and that I will not speak to anyone until my attorney is present”. Remember it’s not only important to know how to protect yourself physically but legally as well.

Till the next time there’s no such thing as a dirty fighter only an educated one.

Norm “The Cannibal” Bettencourt

2010-07-11T23:21:00.000-07:00

HOW TO OVERCOME YOUR FEAR OF BEING HIT

Hi everyone,

If you have been reading my articles for the past little while you know that when it comes to my philosophy on street fighting I always say that “combat is 90% mental and only 10% physical”. When it comes to dealing with fears such as the fear of being hit the same motto holds true. Think about this for a second what is the scariest thing about violence? Is it the fact that when you are actually fighting you could be in pain after getting hit? Or is the scariest thing about violence the anticipation of getting hit before the physical act of violence even occurs.

Bottom line the anticipation of violence is much worse then violence itself.

Like I have mentioned in my previous posts before every feeling there is a thought. So if you are standing across from your enemy at a stand off before the physical act of violence occurs you will experience multiple thoughts that are playing in your head. If you are afraid of being hit this will usually factor in fear based thoughts about being hit going off in your head. Think about it for a second when you actually get hit do you feel pain? The answer is no because your adrenaline is pumping so high it protects you and heightens your pain tolerance. Like I said earlier the worst thing about violence is the stand off seconds before the physical assault takes place because you start to over think things. When the blows start coming those feelings disappear and you do not feel any pain when you’re being hit.

So the next question is how I go about conquering my fear of being hit? First by retraining your brain to have a trigger that puts you into a “killer instinct mindset” (I have written about this in previous posts so I won’t go over it again). You can also perform this physical training exercise. Stand blindfolded with your arms and legs spread. Have a partner while wearing boxing gloves or pads begin striking you with there hands and feet at about 50% of there force. Have them strike you’re arms, chest, torso, legs and face (when striking the face only use in minimal amount of force this prevents trauma to the brain).

What you will find by performing this exercise is that since you cannot see when or where your partner is going to strike your brain will work in over drive because it will anticipate where the next strike will occur. This will force you to control your thoughts while at the same time give you confidence in your ability to handle being hit.

As you perform more of this exercise, have your partner add more force to his strikes. Please remember that you do not want your partner going full force on you and keep the striking power to the head and face to a minimal for your useless if your have any brain trauma.

P.S. When getting hit remember to breathe out on impact and to go with the flow of the blow.

Till the next time remember there’s no such thing as a dirty fighter only an educated one.

Norm “The Cannibal” Bettencourt

2010-06-27T23:55:00.001-07:00

HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF FROM A KNIFE STABBING OR SLASH

Hi everyone today’s post I would like to talk about the realities of a knife attack. When most people think of a knife attack or defense for it they usually have an idea that they will see the knife thrust or slash coming in there direction in plenty of time to respond to it. The reality of it is that you won’t. Here are just a few links to knife attack video that are posted on YouTube to show you the realities of it.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=suNKWwPnkJ0

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BEjKU0p9JZw

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qlb6qGyblR8&feature=related

No one is going to let you know in advance what is about to occur and no one after stabbing or slashing someone with a knife will leave there arm out so you can grab it or perform some bullshit joint lock to twist the knife out of your attacker’s hand.

The reality when it comes to dealing with a knife attack is that you will most likely get cut. There are a few things that you can do to protect yourself so that the slashes and cuts do not end up being fatal. The 1st tip is to grab anything that you can use as a shield between you and the knife. This can be a back pack, book or chair etc.

The 2nd tip is to tuck in your chin so you do not get your artery cut in the throat area. Also stand at a 45 degree angle (bladed position) so the arteries just above your knee on the inner part of your leg do not get cut. As well you will naturally go into a fetal position you want to use your forearms as a shield between the blade and your torso to protect you. I have included a link to the video that explains the forearm shield.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=62rY_wRT1hI

You also want to control the hand holding the weapon. Focus on grabbing the elbow not the hand of the arm holding the blade. This will make it a little easier for you to grab the hand that has the weapon.

P.S. There are new Skull TACT T shirts available you can purchase them at http://thetactstore.spreadshirt.com

Till the next time remember there’s no such thing as a dirty fighter only an educated one.

Norm “The Cannibal” Bettencourt

2010-06-13T19:49:00.000-07:00

HAVING THE RIGHT MINDSET WHEN DEALING WITH MULTIPLE ATTACKER'S

Here is a video that I thought shows the right mindset to have when dealing with multiple attacker’s when all else fails and you have no why out. Notice that it’s a 5 on 1 situation but the lone person had made the right decision and that is to “give the beating” instead of being a victim and “taking the beating”.

My philosophy when it comes to combat is this” Combat is 90% and only 10% physical” you have to go into the fight without having any reservations in attacking or harming your enemy. This guy proves this philosophy by having the “psycho mindset” or “killer instinct mindset”. If he had decided to wait for his attackers to take the first swing or remain calm and zen like then the outcome of the fight would of not gone his way.

To view video click this link below
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gAsPe98w-5c

Till the next time remember there is no such thing as a dirty fighter only an educated one.

Norm “The Cannibal” Bettencourt

2010-06-02T00:05:00.001-07:00

WHAT WOULD YOU DO?

Hi everyone last week I witnessed an interesting situation. I witnessed an individual driving and talking on his cell phone cut someone off who crossing the street on foot. The person was nearing hit by this dump ass driver who was to busy talking on his cell instead of paying attention to the road.

The individual who was nearing struck by the car was pissed and slammed his fists on the car yelling to the driver to get off his f**king phone and that he was going to kill him.

The driver slowly stopped his car the angry man approached the car cursing and swinging his fists stating that he was going to beat the living crap out of the driver. Now before I continue what would you do if you were in this situation?

Drive off? Grab a weapon from your glove box? Undo your seat belt? Well to my surprise what the driver did next was none of those things. The driver instead unlocked his driver's side door, opened it and proceeded to listen to the aggressive individual's rants while the individual stood by the driver's side door. The individual then gives the driver a few good punches to the face before he walks away.

Now what shocked me more about this stupidity was that two days later a similar situation happened again to someone else and that driver unlocked and opened his door as well. All I could do was shake my head in disbelief to the ignorance of some people.

Self defense is about common sense if you can avoid violence altogether then do so for you never know what the other person is capable of doing. If your going to stay at the scene then prepare yourself for battle by unbuckling your seat belt or having your self defense product ready in hand or having your foot ready to hit the gas.

Many people tend to think that they have to stick around especially if they know that they are in the wrong to apologize but you don't. Nice guys always finish last out on the streets. So how did you answer the question of what would you do?

Till the next time remember there is no such thing as a dirty fighter only an educated one.

Norm "The Cannibal" Bettencourt

2010-05-26T00:15:00.001-07:00

YOU ARE INVITED TO...

Subject: Attacked...in your HOME!

I can
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Not too many people have the ability to take their "survival mind
set" to that level.

But the real "survivors" out there have already imagined what
they would do in this situation.

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Norm “The Cannibal” Bettencourt

2010-05-16T23:53:00.000-07:00

DEALING WITH STREET FIGHTING WOUNDS

In today's post I would like to discuss what you can do to help yourself when dealing with a street fighting injury. As you know when it comes to street fighting it is uncontrolled violence so anything can happen. It is the complete opposite from controlled violence such as MMA or bare knuckle bouts that are recorded and played on YouTube.

So it's not just good enough to know how to fight but also how to deal with injuries that occur during violence so you can see another day.

Here are some common injuries that you may face in a street confrontation. Some are life threatening while others are not and are related to training injuries.

By following these guidelines taken from the Canadian Red Cross Society your odds of survival will increase while you are waiting for medical assistance.

INJURY TO NOSE

To control a nosebleed lean forward and pinch the nostrils together until bleeding stops if nose is broken call 911.

BREATHING HEAVY

If you are breathing heavy after a physical confrontation place both your palms of your hand on the back of your head and stick your chest out this will open your lungs up so you can catch your breathe.

UNCONSCIOUS DUE TO CHOKES

If you have assistants get them to place victim in lotus position (legs crossed) push the victims heels toward the groin while having victims knees out now you will push onto the chest a couple of times with your palms. If you are alone prop victims back against the front of your legs and push down on chest with your palms. Victim should regain consciousness if not after a few attempts call 911.

NEARLY KNOCKED OUT

If you are hit and are dropped to the ground due to almost being knocked out do not get up on your feet right away. Instead go up on one knee count to ten then slowly get up on your feet use the surroundings around you to support yourself. Follow up by seeking medical attention.

GROIN STRIKES

If hit in the groin jump into the air and land on the heels of your feet a few times this will help subdue the intensity of pain.

EYE INJURIES

If sprayed with pepper spray keep eye open and flush out eye with water/milk. If eye has been stabbed with an object do not remove object. If you can try to place sterile dressings around the object, support object with a paper cup and carefully bandage/support the cup in place. Call 911

BODY PART BITTEN OFF

If a body part is bitten off apply pressure to control bleeding, try to find missing body part, wrap in clean moist material place in plastic bag and place on ice, call 911.

HEAD INJURIES

A concussion is when someone loses consciousness for only a few minutes, anyone who is suspected of having one should see a physician

Scalp Injury this is when the scalp is bleeding, remember when dealing with a scalp injury there usually is a lot of bleeding involved. Apply pressure to control bleeding and apply dressing. If it is a deep scalp wound apply pressure with hands to the area around the wound.

DEALING WITH MAJOR OPEN WOUNDS

Do not wash wound for you can cause greater tissue damage but attempt to control the bleeding by applying pressure and elevate wounded area if you can. Use dressing, shirt towel or a hand to apply pressure. If body part has been completely cut off, find body part, wrap in moist clean material place in plastic bag and place on ice.

DEALING WITH MINOR OPEN WOUNDS

Wash wound with soap and water, place dressing over wound. When to get stitches? Stitches are usually needed for face and hand lacerations when edges of skin do not fall together or when any wound is longer than ½ to 1 inches.

ABDOMINAL WOUNDS

Carefully position yourself on your back, do not apply direct pressure. Do not push back into the abdomen any organs that may be protruding from the wound. Remove clothing around wound apply moist sterile dressing loosely over the wound (warm tap water can be used) call 911

ARTERIAL WOUNDS

When an artery gets cut you want to apply pressure on it immediately by using a shirt or hand. If it is the artery in the wrist that is wounded elevate the hand as you apply pressure while placing two of you fingers from you other hand up into your arm pit area so you slow the pulse down.

If it is the artery in your thigh (slightly above the knee area) you want to apply pressure immediately using a shirt or your hand. Place your other hand/forearm in the crease of your groin and hip area and apply pressure to help stop the flow of blood to that area. Seek medical attention immediately with any arterial wound it is considered life threatening.

P.S. When stopping blood flow to the area you only want to do this for 10 minutes any time after that you begin to cause damage to that body part. Also if an object is lodged in the body, do not pull it out for it will cause severe bleeding.

BOTTOM LINE

These are effective quick ways to control an injury from becoming worse so time is on your side. Always call for medical assistance as soon as possible.

Till the next time remember there is no such thing as a dirty fighter only an educated one.

Norm "The Cannibal" Bettencourt

2010-04-30T20:08:00.000-07:00

IT'S ALMOST OVER

Hi this is my final and very quick message about my discounted price of 50% off the TACT DVD Fighting System Series or The Secret of Street Fighting Book & DVD Special (it’s about to expire in 24 hours)

Once again this offer is only valid to anyone who has purchased my book Secrets of Street Fighting or is a TACT Tips Newsletter Subscriber or member of the Secrets of Street Fighting Readers Group on Face Book.

You get my 3 disk DVD Fighting Series teaching you the entire TACT Self Defense Street Fighting System for only $47 or get my book Secrets of Street Fighting plus all 3 DVD’s for only $72 (once again this offer is about to expire depending on when you read this, it may already have).

It simple go to www.paypal.com and make the payment to tactselfdefense@yahoo.ca leave a note indicating what you have ordered and that’s it.

Here's your last chance to grab it cheap

Check it out at

http://www.tactselfdefense.com (Get the DVD details here)

http://www.tactselfdefense.com/silver-street-fighting-package.php (Get the book & DVD details here)

Remember there’s no such thing as a dirty fighter only an educated one.

Norm “The Cannibal” Bettencourt

To unsubscribe go to unsubscribe@tactselfdefense.com

2010-04-22T19:23:00.000-07:00

THE EFFECTIVENESS OF P****ING

Hi everyone,

In today's post I would like to discuss another one of my favorite tactics and what I find to be a very effective self defense tactic. It's the basic art of pinching. Yes you heard me right pinching. Ever get a tit twister or someone grabs your inner thigh and pinches you as hard as they can? Then you know how effective that tactic is.

When performing any pinching tactic you want to try and focus on pinching bare skin. Yes it is still effective when done on top of clothes but it's much more effective on straight flesh. When pinching you want to dig your nails and fingers deep into the skin then twist hard and violently and keep twisting. You want to try and tear the flesh off of your attacker's face or whatever body part your pinching. Do not let go when your attacker screams keep pinching for as long as you can while you bite, eye gouge, head butt or whatever else your doing to your attacker so you destroy him.

SPECIAL OFFER TO ALL MY READER"S

I first would like to thank all those who have purchased there copy of my book Secrets of Street Fighting the sales of the book have been astronomical all thanks to you. So as a thank you to all those who have purchased my book (I even decided that I am even going to do this if you’re a TACT Tips Newsletter subscriber or a member of my Secrets of Street Fighting Reader’s Group on Face Book) I am going to give you my entire DVD Series at 50% off as a special thank you gift.

For a limited time only I am giving away my 3 disk TACT DVD Fighting Systems Series set that shows you the complete TACT Self Defense Street Fighting System which is usually priced at $97.00 USD for a discounted rate of only $47.00 USD (once again that’s over 50% off).

Its simple all you have to do is make your purchase through PayPal www.paypal.com make a payment of $47 USD to tactselfdefense@yahoo.ca and leave a note stating that “I want the Special DVD offer”.

P.S If you still haven’t purchased your copy of my block buster book Secrets of Street Fighting and want to purchase it plus get the DVD Special Offer I have a deal for you as well. Once again make your purchase through PayPal www.paypal.com make a payment of $72.00 USD (that’s 50% off the regular $147.00 regular price) to tactselfdefense@yahoo.ca and leave a note stating that “I want the book & DVD offer”.

NOTE: You better hurry both these offers are only valid until May 1/2010 until midnight.

Here's your chance to grab it cheap.

Check it out at

http://www.tactselfdefense.com (Get the DVD details here)

http://www.tactselfdefense.com/silver-street-fighting-package.php (Get the book & DVD details here)

Remember there’s no such thing as a dirty fighter only an educated one.

Norm “The Cannibal” Bettencourt

2010-04-14T19:06:00.001-07:00

IMPROVISED BATONS

Hi everyone today's post I would like to discuss the topic of improvised batons. Now like I have stated in my previous posts you want to try to see what is around you in your immediate environment to see what you could use as a weapon if need be.

Now I want you to think for a moment when you walk around during the day what do you carry on you that could be transformed into a baton? Well there are a couple of things umbrellas which should be carried from the tip so the handle makes impact on your attacker if you were to strike him with it. The handle is much more damaging to strike with then with the end or tip of the umbrella.

Another everyday object that you can use is a rolled up newspaper or magazine. To see how effective this home made baton can be simply make a fist and strike your fist with the magazine or newspaper. Some guys like stuffing the magazine or newspaper with a piece of wood to give it even more striking power.

Now when it comes to techniques with striking someone using the news paper umbrella or whatever you transform into a baton there is none. Simply strike the S.O.B in the hand if he is holding a weapon and until he releases it. You can also club or strike him in the face, chin or neck area. This will definitely do some damage to your attacker.

Till the next time remember there's no such thing as a dirty fighter only an educated one.

Norm "The Cannibal" Bettencourt
http://www.tactselfdefense.com/secrets-of-street-fighting-book.php

2010-04-06T17:02:00.001-07:00

HITTING HIGH COMPARED TO HITTING LOW...WHAT'S BETTER

Hi everyone hope everyone is doing well. In today's post I would like to discuss what is more effective striking someone high or low on the body. When ever the human body see's a stimuli coming it's way it goes into the flinch response. Basically the hands go up to block what is coming in there direction. This response is a natural and instinctive response that does not need to be learned we are simply born with it.

The TACT Self Defense Street Fighting System bases it's blocking tactics around the flinch response because it does not have to be taught. It is already ingrained in your muscle memory so you don't need to learn some complicated blocking technique that requires thousands of repetitions for it to be remembered.

As well the brain naturally responds to a stimuli coming high such as a punch towards the face much quicker then responding to a stimuli that is low such as a kick to the shin. The flinch response kicks in and the hands come up when a high level attack is coming. But the brain finds it harder to see and respond to a low line strike. The brain takes more time recognizing what is going on and responding to the low line attack. This in turn means that by striking low your odds of striking your attacker are much better then striking high.

BTW You also have more power in your low line tactics then you do when attacking at high levels.

Till the next time remember there's no such thing as a dirty fighter only an educated one.

Norm "The Cannibal" Bettencourt

2010-03-27T23:57:00.000-07:00

EVERYDAY OBJECTS THAT WILL PROTECT YOU FROM PUNCHES TO KNIFE SLASHES

Hi everyone today's post I would like to discuss how you can protect yourself from slashes from a knife or any other type of blow such as from a fist or pipe. Now most people when they teach defense from knife thrusts/slashes or any other kind of blow focus on empty hand tactics. What the TACT Self Defense Street Fighting System focuses on is using your environment to shield yourself from the blade or fist coming your way. Yes sometimes circumstances can't allow you to grab something but if you can then do it. It will finish the fight that much faster.

This in turn makes the situation a bit safer to deal with and also makes it a little easier to disarm your attacker. Now before I go into what you can use as a shield I want to remind everyone of one thing. You want to make it a habit whenever entering a room to scan the area to see what you can use to protect yourself with in that environment.

After a while it becomes second nature for you to automatically scan and pick out weapons in your environment without even realizing it. Basically if you can pick it up use it as a shield and as a weapon.

So here are some shields that you can use regardless if someone is punching, kicking, thrusting a knife at you, swinging a pipe or using any blunt object on you.

Chairs
Briefcases
Books
Back packs
Duffle Bags
Stools
Grocery carts
Cutting Boards
Slash resistant shirts ($250 per shirt and looks like an ordinary long sleeve shirt)
Kevlar gloves (slash/stab resistant gloves allowing you to grab a knife/needle from your enemy)

Remember don't stay in defense mode immediately attack your enemy with the shield so he is forced into defensive mode and you take control of the situation.

Till the next time there's no such thing as a dirty fighter only an educated one.

Norm "The Cannibal" Bettencourt

2010-03-17T12:37:00.000-07:00

ASKING QUESTIONS PUTS MOMENTUM ON YOUR SIDE

Hi everyone hope everybody had a great week. This weeks post I would like to talk about how asking questions before the act of physical violence starts can put momentum on your side catching your attacker off guard.

In my new book Secrets of Street Fighting I talk a lot about the importance of putting momentum on your side so you control the fight from start to finish. So how do you do this? Will one why is by attacking your enemy in mid sentence or phrase and continue attacking until you feel it's safe to stop. Another way is by asking your attacker a question such as "When's your birthday?" or "Do you want to go for a drink?'". When you ask anyone a question an automatic response the brain has to it is to think about it.

Now it is vital that in the split second after you have asked your question when your attacker is thinking about what was just said (he will either think of his birth date or will think why the hell are you asking this) that you attack full force without any hesitation. This in turn puts momentum on your side because by the time your enemy has gotten his mind back into attacking you it will be to late because his is flat on his ass.

To read more about putting momentum on your side go to

http://www.tactselfdefense.com/secrets-of-street-fighting-book.php

Till the next time remember there's no such thing as a dirty fighter only an educated one.

Norm "The Cannibal" Bettencourt

2010-03-07T21:20:00.001-08:00

HOW TO PREVENT A FORCED ENTRY

Hi everyone today's post is about how to prevent a forced entry. In today’s society it is becoming all too common to hear of another home invasion, or a forced entry in our local newspapers, and media. Many times the victims were unaware of how they could have prevented this situation from escalating. I can tell you first hand that statistics have shown that criminals have become so brazen that they no longer care if there is anyone in the home when they enter to rob, rape, and destroy anything in their paths. There are of course many ways to protect yourselves in your homes, but I would like to just start by giving you a simple technique that anyone can use to protect themselves from being a victim of Forced Entry.

You hear a knock on your door, you open the door to see who is there, and before you can even understand what is happening, an intruder forces his way in by pushing past you. You and your family are now at the mercy of this intruder. Many people assume that there was nothing that they could have done to prevent this from happening, but this is far from the truth. I will now explain a simple technique that can interrupt this criminals plan.

First always look to see who is at your door either through the peep hole, or by asking who it is. If your gut instinct is telling you something is wrong then listen to that feeling and do not open the door. Just because someone is knocking at your door doesn’t mean you have to open it or even answer. If it is a person stating that they have a delivery then tell them to leave the package outside the door and tell them you are busy and will get it later.

You can also ask them which company they work for, and call that company to confirm that a parcel is being sent to your home. It wouldn’t be the first time that an intruder has dress up in a uniform to gain easy access into a home. Now if it is a person that you do not know and they are wearing regular clothing, do not open the door period. Always ask what they want, and if they state that they need to use your phone because of an accident, tell them you will make the call, and get the information from them without opening your door.

Now if you do decide to open your door to a stranger which I do not recommend, make sure you are wearing shoes. The technique will only work while wearing shoes because you need traction against the floor. Bare feet or socks will not provide this for you.

Open the door slightly while the ball of your foot is pressed up against the door, and the heel of your foot is on the floor. Your foot should be braced snug against the door so that even if the person at the door tries pushing the door inwards, your foot will act as a door jam preventing him from forcing the door open.

Regardless of the persons size he will not be able to enter due to the leverage caused by your foot. You now can force the door closed with your hands while keeping your foot in place. Lock the door and call 911. Another good idea is to have a self defense product such as pepper spray an arms reach away from the entrance so when you do jam the door with your foot you can easily grab the pepper spray container and spray your attacker’s eyes making it easier to close the door on the intruder or fight him off.

P.S. I would like to thank all those who have purchased this week my book Secrets of Street Fighting it should be in your hands in a few days. If you haven't ordered your copy yet you can get it at
http://www.tactselfdefense.com/secrets-of-street-fighting-book.php

Till the next time remember there's no such thing as a dirty fighter only an educated one.

Norm "The Cannibal" Bettencourt

2010-02-28T21:29:00.000-08:00

WHY YOU SHOULD BITE WHEN YOU FIGHT

Hi hope everyone had a great few weeks I had to do security detail for the Olympics so I couldn't make any posts for that time I was working, sorry about that.

Today"s post is from a good friend and trainer that I know and respect Christopher Bob Roberts from Extreme Measures Institute. We both pretty much have the same philosophy on self defense. He sent me this link from YouTube that I think will show you how powerful biting can be in a street fight. This also goes with what I talk about in my book Secrets of Street Fighting which I am happy to say can be ordered through my website now.

Here's the link for the biting YouTube video

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1SMzF9b2Eus

Here's the link to order your copy of my book Secrets of Street Fighting

http://www.tactselfdefense.com/secrets-of-street-fighting-book.php

Till the next time remember there's no such thing as a dirty fighter only an educated one.

Norm "The Cannibal" Bettencourt

2010-02-05T22:28:00.000-08:00

TARGETS TO STRIKE DURING SELF DEFENSE SITUATIONS

Hi everyone hope everybody had a great week. Today's post is regarding the best targets to strike on the human body so you destroy your attacker in the quickest time possible.

Now imagine for a second that you are up against an attacker the size of Brock Lesnor. Now many schools of self defense teach there students how to punch and kick there attacker. Now if your up against a guy the size of Brock how long do you think you actually will have trying to out box or kick him before he has you for lunch?

If your honest with yourself you know you don't have much time. If you have ever been in a fight against a guy the size of Brock like I have you learn quickly that those punches from him will do a number on you after the first one or two blows because all you will be doing is seeing stars and going into defensive mode that's if your ass isn't knocked out yet.

So a rule of thumb is never hit targets haphazardly. Hit targets that will cause a domino type of effect to your attacker's body so momentum goes on your side and your attacker is placed in a defense mode instead of offensive mode. The targets you should hit are one's that are difficult to condition and cause an immediate effect onto your attacker's body.

You should not be trying to out box, kick or out grapple your attacker trying to hit anything you can. Strike targets that stop your attacker dead in his tracks. He should become immobilized once hit (not talking about pressure point stuff either) and you keep attacking till you know it's safe to stop. By focusing on targeting instead of techniques you will have a better chance of surviving violence.

P.S There have been a lot of people asking about when the Secrets of Street Fighting Book will be ready to order. I am glad to say in two weeks time I will have the first order of books in my hands, we are just getting the web page ready so you can order it from there. So to everyone thanks for our patience and I guarantee that it will be worth the wait.

Till the next time remember there is no such thing as a dirty fighter only an educated one.

Norm "The Cannibal" Bettencourt

2010-01-15T20:46:00.000-08:00

APPLYING CHOKE HOLDS PART 2

Hi everyone hope everybody had a great week. Today's post is part 2 of how to practice applying choke holds. Now in reality issues such as clothing and the size of the individuals neck play a big factor on how successful your able to execute your choke hold. So when practicing applying choke holds there is something that I do with all of my students that helps put more realism into there training.

What I do is this when I put on my protective body armor, to do crisis rehearsal scenarios (improvised hardcore sparring) I place thick padding around my nech area usually making my neck 22 inches thick. This way my students learn how to improvise when applying a choke on a moving resistant person who has an above average neck size. Students learn quickly which chokes are realistic to apply out on the street and which ones are harder or next to impossible to apply in real life violent situations.

So to get a better feel on how well your choke holds are try this training tip out. Try not to focus to much on using training dummies when practicing applying choke holds for they are static and don't fight back and give you a false sense of security of how well you can apply your choke hold tactics.

P.S. Next week I should have a link up for Amazon so you can order my book Secrets of Street Fighting, you will also be able to order it at any book store world wide as well.

Till the next time remember there's no such thing as a dirty fighter only an educated one.

Norm "The Cannibal" Bettencourt.

2010-01-08T21:53:00.000-08:00

WHEN ATTACKER'S DON'T FEEL PAIN

Hi Everyone,

Hope everyone had a great New Years. Today's post I would like to discuss the issue of what you do when your attacker does not feel any pain. I have dealt with this situation a few times in my life and let me tell you that it is not a fun situation to be in.

If you have experienced this yourself you know exactly what I mean. Your attacker could be under the influence of drugs or have a mental condition and regardless of what you do he is simply immune to pain. You can break his arm, leg or pound his head against the concrete but he keeps on getting up and fighting.

So how do you stop a guy such as this? Punching his head in doesn't work, joint locks just break his limb (that's if your lucky enough to be able to apply a joint lock) and that doesn't do a thing to him. if you guessed choke holds then your correct.

Rendering your attacker unconscious is the only way to stop an attacker who is impervious to pain. A little tip here usually it takes between 4-6 seconds to render someone unconscious but make sure you hold it for 8-10 seconds that way you know that the job is done correctly.

As well when practicing choke holds when your partner taps release the pressure but maintain the form for at least 10 seconds. That way you don't get into the bad habit of automatically releasing the choke in the real world when you attacker begins tapping and clawing at your arm. Remember we fight like how we train you got to make your training as realistic as possible because out on the street your on automatic mode.

Till the next time remember there is no such thing as a dirty fighter only an educated one.

Norm "The Cannibal" Bettencourt

2009-12-20T22:25:00.001-08:00

HAPPY HOLIDAYS

Hi everyone I would just like to wish everyone Happy Holidays I will taking the rest of 09 off so I won't be in touch with any of you till 2010. I have also just finished talking with my book publisher and my book Secrets of Street Fighting will be out either in the 2nd or 3rd week of January. Once I get word I will place a link up on this forum so you can purchase your copy from Amazon.

Have a happy and safe holiday.

Norm

2009-12-08T22:24:00.000-08:00

SEPARATING FACT FROM FICTION WHEN IT COMES TO SELF DEFENSE INFORMATION

Hi everyone hope everybody had a great week. Today's post I would like to discuss how you can separate fact from fiction when it comes to information on self defense techniques. There are a lot of claims that if you perform a certain techniques you will get a response from your attacker.

An example of this is the technique of breaking someones neck by twisting and jarring a persons head quickly which will cause your attacker to be killed instantly.

In reality this is completely false first for the fact that the human body is very strong it would take an exceptionally strong individual to be able to perform this tactic. The actual amount of force needed to break someones neck is tremendous.

The next thing about this tactic is that a person will not die instantly if this tactic is performed on them not like how you see in the movies. As well there are many people out there that claim that they have been in the special forces and have learned or performed this tactic and that it is correct.

The reality is that just because someone says they are from an elite military team doesn't necessarily mean it's true. Even if someone is from the lets say a special forces unit there are many different units within the special forces some that don't have anything to do with hand to hand combat.

So how do you go about finding out if a self defense tactic will actually do what it says it will do? Simple just ask your doctor (don't look over info on the internet a lot of misinformation here) he will be able to tell you true real world knowledge of what the human body can withstand.

Till the next time remember there is no such thing as a dirty fighter only an educated one.

Norm "The Cannibal" Bettencourt

2009-11-30T20:21:00.000-08:00

COVER & CONCEALMENT

Hi everyone hope every body had a great couple of weeks. I have been extremely busy these last couple of weeks and could not make any posts last week, sorry about that. This weeks post I would like to discuss cover and concealment when it comes to dealing with being shot at.

Now most countries do not allow citizens to carry firearms so I am only going to talk about situations such as these. For countries that do allow its citizens to carry firearms there are additional things that you can do in this situations.

So if you are ever in a situation where someone is shooting at you and you need to run to get to cover and concealment. You want to run in a zig zag pattern this way it will be much harder for your attacker to line you up on his sights and shot you. Yes it may take a little more time to get there but your odds of getting shot will be much less then running in a straight line. You may get there quicker but usually with an extra hole in you because your attacker as an easier time lining you up on his sights.

You also want to get down low to the ground and take cover or concealment. Now here are the differences between cover and concealment now keep in mind you are going to run your ass off while probably shitting or pissing yourself when getting shot at and are not going to give a flying f**k if you have cover or concealment but reading this now it can help you keep some vital points in mind.

Cover constitutes any object or barrier that will protect you from being shot as well as conceal your position. Examples would be an engine block area of a vehicle, a solid brick wall, or a concrete planter. Concealment only serves to hide or obscure your location. It does not provide protection. Examples include bushes, vehicle doors, the interior walls of most structures, and even darkness.

Remember with cover, ensure that you keep an appropriate amount of distance from that barrier. The reason you maintain a safe distance from a barricade is to avoid being hit by ricochets. Till the next time remember there is no such thing as a dirty fighter only an educated one.

Norm "The Cannibal" Bettencourt

2009-11-15T22:33:00.001-08:00

VACCINES FOR SELF DEFENSE SITUATIONS

Hi everyone,

Hope everyone had a great week. Today's post I would like to discuss the topic of vaccines. Regardless if your favorite self defense technique is an upper cut, right hook or to bite you always run the risk of contracting a disease from your attacker when you attack him. Actually you have more of a risk on contracting a disease from punching someone then biting someone (if you haven't done so read my posts on biting).

Now first things first the last think that should be running off in your head when your fighting to protect yourself is "maybe I shouldn't do this because I might catch something" if that's whats going off in your brain your screwed because you don't have the proper mindset it's like going to a gun fight with only a knife your going to get killed.

You should have no limitations or hesitations when it comes to doing what you gotta do to protect yourself or loved ones (at least that's how I see it). Now this is were the topic of vaccines comes into play especially against diseases such as Hep A & B. There are vaccines that your doctor can give you to help protect yourself from these diseases.

This in turn will not only give you a little more piece of mind when it comes to doing what you gotta do when your protecting yourself but also when going about your everyday life such as when traveling. So next time your at your doctors get info on the different vaccines that are out there because sometimes it's not enough to be able to protect yourself physically but internally as well.Till the next time remember

There's no such thing as a dirty fighter only an educated one.

Norm "The Cannibal" Bettencourt

2009-11-08T14:26:00.001-08:00

WHEREVER THE HEAD GOES THE BODY MUST FOLLOW

Hi everyone,

Control the head and the rest of the body must follow; it’s the simple law of anatomy. Watch someone try to get up off the ground when they are flat on there back. What moves first? The head, if the head cannot move then the body cannot as well.

How To Attack: By twisting, cranking, pushing, pulling, pinning, and manipulating your enemies head you control his body regardless if you’re in a stand up or ground fighting situation.

Also if you're mounted by an attacker have one butt cheek up off the ground this will help you as you crank your attacker’s head reverse the situation because then you can use your legs to help twist your attacker’s body off of you.

Note: When cranking you want, to steer the head, do not be concerned about breaking your attacker’s neck. This tactic actually places less force on the neck then a chiropractic adjustment.

Till the next time remember there's no such thing as a dirty fighter only an educated one.

Norm "The Cannnibal" Bettencourt

2009-10-24T23:14:00.001-07:00

Remaining Teachable-Agree To Disagree

Hi everyone,

In today's post I would like discuss the issue of being able to agree to disagree. A lot of times in the self defense industry people tend to stop being teachable. They tend to think that the way they were taught on how to fight is the only TRUE method of self defense.

In reality there is no one right way to do things. I believe that we can learn from one another but to do this we must remain teachable and open minded. Even if you see a tactic that does not seem realistic there can be different elements in that tactic that can or may benefit you.

So take what you wish from my posts and others posts and leave what you dislike behind. I don't expect people to agree with everything I say. Remember to always analyze and dissect everything you read and hear from me and from all other self defense sites.

Remember there is no such thing as a dirty fighter only an educated one.

Norm "The Cannibal" Bettencourt

2009-10-15T21:27:00.000-07:00

CONTROLLING YOUR MICRO EXPRESSIONS IN COMBAT

Hi Everyone,

Today's post I would like to discuss micro expressions. So what exactly is a micro expression well a simple example would be when a person is about to throw a punch you will notice that they will either squint there eyes or there cheek bones will move those are micro expressions. The majority of people have this tendency before executing a tactic which in turn telegraphs their intentions.

A way to help prevent yourself from telegraphing your intention to attack is by controlling your micro expressions by placing your tongue on the roof of your mouth before and while executing your tactics. This will help make your face expressionless hence making it harder for your enemy to know what your up to. It takes some practice but once you get into the habit of placing your tongue on the roof of your mouth it will become second nature.

Till next time take care and remember

There's no such thing as a dirty fighter only an educated one.

Norm "The Cannibal" Bettencourt

2009-10-12T21:46:00.000-07:00

TACT's Instructors Program Is Now Accepting Applications

Hi Everyone,

Just a heads up that TACT Self Defense Street Fighting Systems is now accepting applications for individuals who are interested in becoming TACT instructors. If you want to increase enrollment at your current school or have a passion to teach self defense & street fighting who wants to run your own school then this program is for you. Plus this is the only street fighting and training system of its kind any where. Click this link below or paste it onto your browser and you will be directed to a web page that has all the vital details about this one of a kind opportunity.

http://www.tactselfdefense.com/instructor-certification.php

Remember there’s no such thing as a dirty fighter only an educated one.

Norm “The Cannibal” Bettencourt

2009-10-01T22:51:00.001-07:00

WHY YOU SHOULD BITE WHEN YOU FIGHT

If you haven't realized as of yet why they call me t"The Cannibal" you will now I love to bite when I fight and find it is a very powerful and extremely effective tactic. For those who fear disease transfer due to this tactic see my previous posts regarding this.

Now my 14 month old son loves to feed me food and expects me to do the favor in return and have dad place food into his mouth. Well dad seems to be getting slow in his old age and after placing a piece of food into his mouth I was a little slow removing my finger from his mouth.The next thing I feel is my son's teeth biting down hard onto my finger tip, which did not feel to good.

After the pain subsided I looked at my little guy gave him a big hug and kissed the top of his head letting him know that it was ok, since he seemed a little concerned when I yelped in pain. That whole situation reinforced how powerful biting can be. If a 14 month old toddler can stop a man who has been conditioned to with stand a crap load of pain then that says something about how powerful the "bite" tactic can be.

Remember there's no such thing as a dirty fighter only an educated one.

Norm

2009-09-25T00:09:00.000-07:00

LIKE A FLY ON CRAP

Hi everyone,

Are you one of those people that wonder why people always pick fights with you or stare you down? Well today's post is exactly on that topic. People who are considered to be "prey"or the weaker ones usually find themselves in situations where they end up being bullied. The reason for this is that they attract the bullying due to the how they present themselves to the world. So if you feel scared, timid or powerless your attitude will display this to the outside world in the way you walk, talk and carry yourself during the course of your day.

Predators see these characteristics that the prey are displaying and are naturally drawn and attracted to them like a fly is naturally drawn to crap. It boils down to animal magnetism and please I am not implying that people with low self esteem are crap I am just making a comparison. Take a look at people with confidence they walk with there head held high, shoulders rolled back, walk with energy and purpose and talk with an assertive tone. They don't have the problem of people picking on them because of how they are presenting themselves regardless of there size.

Now if you are one of these prey people have a friend follow you with a video camera on any given day that you don't know about and have them record you in your natural environment. What you will find is how you truly present yourself to the outside world and trust me there is a big difference on what you think you display compared to what you actually display. Many people are shocked when they see themselves and how they actually present themselves to others.

Note: There are many small video cameras that are hidden that look like pens, buttons etc so they can not be detected. An example of a naturally filmed environment is having a friend follow you to work in the morning who knows your routine. Example where you get a coffee, the streets you take to get to work.

This is a powerful eye opening exercise that works.

2009-09-17T23:50:00.000-07:00

DEFENDERS CREED

Thought some of you would like reading this.

The Defender's Creed
By: John Farnam

I accept and understand that human predators exist. Criminal or terrorist, they take advantage of our civilized society to prey upon the weak. They represent evil and must be confronted and defeated.

I believe that self-defense is a moral imperative, and that illegitimate force and illegal violence must be met with righteous indignation and superior violence.

I will not rely on others for the security of myself, my family and my community.

I proudly proclaim that I run with a like-minded pack. I do not amble through life with the mind-numbed herd.

I will train with my chosen weapons, maintain them and carry them in a condition of readiness at all times.

I will be mentally prepared and physically equipped to effectively respond to an attack or emergency.

I will constantly test myself against realistic standards to discover my strengths and weaknesses. I will turn weakness into strength.

I will seek to learn new skills and techniques, and then teach what I have learned to other members of the pack.

Be it with firearm or blade, empty hand or blunt object, I will hit my enemies hard, fast and true.

I will live a quiet and unobtrusive life, but I will develop and retain the capacity for swift and decisive violence.

I recognize that I am the modern equivalent of the traditional Minuteman, and that I may be called to service at any time against heavily armed enemies. I will respond effectively.

I accept that I am a pariah among some of my countrymen, and a quaint anachronism to others. I will not hold their ignorance against them.

I will win, or die trying.

I swear this creed before God, my family and my fellow citizens.

2009-08-27T20:46:00.000-07:00

FASHION KILLS

Hi everybody today's post I would like to discuss fashion. Now a lot of you are thinking what the hell does fashion have to do with street fighting well to tell you the truth a lot and I will tell you why.

In today's society a lot of guys like wearing hoodies with the hood over there heads now think about how this can be a down fall for that person when it comes to self defense/street fighting. First your vision is limited because the hood is blocking part of your view effecting your situational awareness. The next problem with wearing a hood is that all your attacker has to do is pull on it while he is pounding on you and he will have an easier time controlling you.

This goes with other clothing items such as baggy jeans which can trip you up and effect your kicking speed and skills when your in a fight. Untied shoes which will effect your balance and foot work when it comes to your personal protection tactics from being successful. So next time you get dressed think if what your wearing will help you or hinder you in a fight.

Stay Safe

Norm

2009-08-20T21:16:00.000-07:00

KILLING TWO BIRDS WITH ONE STONE

Hi everyone in today's post I would like to go over doing two things at once when your blocking to not only block your attackers blow but to also hurt him at the same time so you "defang" or "disarm" your attacker taking away his weapons. How do you go about doing this? Well lets use an example of how I block a punch I like using a tactic that I call the "elbow block" all I do is block my attacker's punch by bringing up both my elbows together so that they protect my face and torso so when my attacker makes contact with me with his fist he strikes my elbows which in turn damages his fingers and knuckles.

This in turn takes away one of his weapons so now he only has one hand to punch with and his momentum as stopped suddenly and now I can put the momentum on my side. Another tactic you can use to kill two birds with one stone when your blocking is using the "hammer fist block" this will hurt your attackers forearms when you block his punches using the hammer fists. So make sure when you perform a tactic that you not only block but strike at the same time so you make life a little easier for yourself when it comes to your self defense.

Stay Safe

Norm

2009-07-22T21:52:00.001-07:00

Scanning: Avoiding The Ambush

Hi everyone hope all is well with everybody today I would like to go over how to scan in self defense situations. Now like I have stated in a previous post scanning helps prevent tunnel vision because your eyes are not fixed on one single image therefore you are able to see everything that is occurring in your immediate surroundings.

As well whenever you walk down the street make it a habit of looking at items that are around you that you can use as a weapon. Remember items such as dirt, mail or newspaper boxes, cars, bushes, steps, curbs and the like. These are all items that can help take out your attacker by either creating a barrier between you and your attacker, or tripping them up with or throwing them as well as impairing there vision with.

As well you want to scan after you have finished attacking your attacker. You want to back away at least 15 feet from your attacker even if he is knocked out flat on the sidewalk keeping your eyes on him as well keeping an eye out for who is around and behind you. That way you are ready for any sneak attacks coming from your attackers friends who try to ambush you.

There are countless cases of people beating the crap out of there attacker then finding themselves in the middle of an ambush because they let there guard down because they thought that the fight was over when in reality it was just beginning. Remember anything goes out on the street because there's is no such thing as a dirty fighter only an educated one.

2009-07-05T22:45:00.001-07:00

HAND SHAKE SELF DEFENSE

2009-06-06T23:30:00.000-07:00

HOW TO TRIP UP & OFF BALANCE AN ATTACKER

2009-06-06T21:09:00.000-07:00

THE ISSUE OF BITING

Let me ask you a question if you were up against an attacker who had HIV/AIDS and had no way out of the situation but to fight and you had only two options one would be to punch your attacker and the other would be to bite him which of the two tactics would most likely transfer the virus over to you if you were to use it?

The answer is punching why because when you punch someone you are more likely to cut your fist in the process. When you bite someone you are less likely to cut your gum.

HIV/AIDS is transferred through the blood stream, when biting someone the virus is going directly into your saliva not into your blood stream.

Now some people seem to get an idea in there head that they will have options when dealing with a crazed individual who out weighs you by 50-100 lbs and that if all else falls then use biting as a last resort. People who think that they have options are people who have no real experience with violence (dojo and MMA sparring or matches don't count) Yes sometimes you have options a lot of times you don't it's about reacting to pure chaos and nothing else.

A lot of times you don't see those blows coming at your face when you have some crazed dude beating on you all you can do is feel the impact. Now tell me what your options are now. I have bitten countless people in my time and never have caught a disease. But don't take my word for it ask your doctor about AIDS/HIV transfer for this is were I have gotten this information from when creating my system (don't Google the info there's a lot of mixed up info on the subject which never as been proven)

Yes you can catch Hep C and other diseases but hell I will take my chances when someone is trying to kill me or a loved one. The thought of catching a disease will be the last think on my mind during these situations anyways. Personal protection is about doing what you have to do to survive and trust me when push comes to shove you will do anything even bite.

THE ISSUE OF BITING PART 2

I love some of the comments disease phobic people give when the issue of biting arises when it comes to personal protection. Now if you haven't read my first post on this topic then I would recommend you do to get an idea of where I stand when it comes to biting. Now I stated yesterday in my post that AIDS/HIV is only transferred through the blood stream and when you bite your attackers blood is not going into your blood stream but your saliva instead. You are more like to come into contact with the virus if you were to punch someone.

Now this may freak out all the germ phobics out there but I must state this point. It's about coming into contact with the HEP C virus which is much easier to get infected with then it is to get infected by the HIV/AIDS virus. Now yes you can catch HEP C from biting but you can also catch HEP C from punching someone (shit there's goes that tactic), from grappling with someone who has 3 day old dry blood on them (sorry this is HEP D or E or the latter, there's a few of them forgot which one it is). Shit you can't even touch anyone anymore or your going to get sick. See my point regardless what you do you still can get exposed with these viruses so you might as well do the most effective tactic first to stop the S.O.B quickly before he takes you out.

So some may say ok I get the point but I would rather use my knife which I agree, but do you know how many people cut themselves when protecting themselves shit there's goes that tactic because you might come into contact with the virus there to (NOTE: that's if you can get to your blade because a lot of people are to busy messing around doing useless tactics in the 1st place, it's not like you have time to try a few things out, then get to your blade, better be able to draw that sucker fast if not what you going do?...shit I have seen people not be able to get it in time and get f""ked up with a big blade still hanging off there belt...the 1st thing you do better work on the street countering is tough). The simple point I am trying to make is you got to take out your attacker fast and biting is quick. As well a lot of tactics will not work but biting is one of the few that does and remember when crap hits the fan you usually can't even remember your name let alone some fine motor skill tactic so how the hell are you going to execute it.

I train guys full time (security/civilians) and some of the boys I train outweigh me by 150LBS. Now a lot of shit out there does not work but biting as never failed me while training when someone is trying to test me out or out on the street ( I am a former 160 LB bouncer). I have never caught a disease but don't take my word for it ask a medical professional such as a doctor about this issue, hell this is were I got the info from when I created the this system.

P.S. If you do bite someone get to a hospital within a 2 hour window you will be given a cocktail to counter the virus (not a guarantee to be virus free) but hell your going to have to do this anyway if blood is drawn in the fight regardless if you bite, punch, grapple or stab someone so why not do the most effect tactic first so momentum isn't on your attacker's side because once it is it's hard to get it back.

2009-05-09T23:35:00.000-07:00

THE STREET FIGHTING SECRETS BOOK IS FINALLY OUT

I have just released my new 126 page book called Street Fighting Secrets...There's No Such Thing As A Dirty Fighter Only An Educated One which can be purchased for only $29.99 at www.tactselfdefense.com/book.php. I have included a short exert from Chapter 4 from my book which is called The Six S's of Street Fighting in this months post enjoy.

In my street fighting system called TACT Self Defense there are six important concepts or principles to street fighting which all start with the letter “S” that should be applied to every street fighting situation. By following these concepts and principles which have been taken from systems that the military, FBI, CIA use as well as what convicts and street fighters use will put momentum on your side to help take out your enemy.

The First “S” = Situational Awareness

By having situational awareness, you are never caught off guard so you can either avoid or deal with whatever situation comes your way all due to having time to respond because you are alert to your surroundings because you are in a “code yellow” condition.

Most people walk around being in “code white” not paying attention to their environment, thinking about what they have to do throughout their day, such as picking up the dry cleaning, doing groceries and so on. This in turn has people unaware of there surroundings because they are stuck in there head making them easy victims for violence because they are unaware of what is going on around them. So if they do get attacked regardless if they have the best street fighting moves around, it will be useless because you do not have time to respond to the situation at hand because you do not see what’s coming until it is too late. So how do you have situational awareness and be in “code yellow”? Here are some suggestions.

“You Must Be In Code Yellow”

Use Reflections: Be in the present moment and while going about your day use reflections from windows of buildings and cars to see what is happening around you, this will give you a complete 360 degree view of your surroundings making it harder for you to be caught of guard.

Keep Your Distance: Take corners wide. This way if someone is waiting for you around the bend, you will have time to respond to the stimuli and not be caught off guard. When walking, keep your distance from people walking next to you or while walking near people seated at side walk cafes. As well when walking next to bushes and other objects you want to give yourself some distance away from these objects in case someone is hiding near them.

Shadows: Notice shadows that are coming up on you while walking. This gives you an indication that someone may be making their move. While walking to your car or doorway observe to see if there are shadows around.

Senses: Use your senses such as sight which we have already gone into but smells as well. Do you smell cigarette smoke, body odor, alcohol? What do you hear - foot steps, a group of people coming your way from behind or a car speeding up towards you? These are all things that can help you either to avoid a situation from happening or to prepare yourself to deal with that situation so you can catch your enemy off guard and take him out. Always trust your gut instinct if something doesn’t feel right. Listen to what your gut is telling you.

The Second “S” = Stance & Spacing

Whenever dealing with anyone, you want to keep at least five to ten feet away from your enemy this way you have more time to respond to the stimuli that comes your way. You want to stand at a 45 degree angle with your knees slightly bent, your dominate hand at the rear while your hands are up chest level while always talking with your hands. Have your chin slightly tucked in, so you’re protected if your enemy tries sucker punching you, you won’t get knocked out. This stance as well makes you less of a target then standing directly in front of your enemy and allows you to move away from your enemy’s attack quickly. Keep in mind to never back yourself into a corner. Always have your back towards a door, and if you need to back up, take one step back then turn so your back is always facing an exit this way you always have a way out.

Note: There are situations where having your back towards a wall can be helpful such as using it as a support so you don’t fall to the ground or having your back against a wall so you don’t have to worry about someone coming up from behind you.

The Third “S”= Scanning

While using situational awareness, you want to scan your surroundings. By scanning you prevent tunnel vision which is a major problem for people in a confrontation because then you exclude stimuli that could be coming their way such as the friends of your enemy coming into the picture while in the heat of the moment, or afterwards when the fight is over. Note what you can use in your environment to take out your attacker, items such as garbage bins, bus stop benches while fighting out on the street. While fighting indoors items such as vases, pots, pans, chairs and tables are all things that will make your life easier and safer for you to take out your enemy, more on this in a later chapter. So begin making it a habit whenever you walk into a room or in any environment to scan and see what you can use as a weapon if crap hits the fan and you need to take someone out.

You want to scan your enemy’s body language for cues that will indicate that he may become violent. Most people usually don’t have a clue on what to look for when it comes to the enemy’s body language to tell what his true intentions are when both of you are at a stand off before the first strike is thrown. Body language says more than verbal communication and is 60% of how a message is communicated. So what are some of these body language cues to look out for that tells you that a person will attack?

- Is he making a fist?
- Tight lips or jaw line
- Clinching his teeth
- Exaggerated motions such as swinging his arms
- Red face (angry/drunk)
- Staring at you (more than 70% of the time)
- While looking into his eyes his stare changes or he quickly goes off some
where in his mind (he has triggered himself)
- Trying to invade your personal space

- Sweat dripping of his face (possible drug use)
- Aggressive tone
- What do you smell on him (alcohol/drugs)
- Changes from being in your face to being nice to catch you off guard
- Ignores you when your speaking to them
- Suddenly holds his breath (is getting ready to strike)
- Has his hand in his pocket while being verbally threatening (usually has a
weapon in his pocket ready to pull it out and use it on you)
- Is quiet (watch out for the quiet ones)

Whenever dealing with anyone you want to keep at least five to ten feet away from your enemy this way you have more time to respond to the stimuli that comes your way. As well when dealing with someone under the influence of alcohol or drugs there behavior will be unpredictable so stay alert. Always focus on your enemy’s’ shoulders for this will give away there movement before actually attacking and never underestimate anyone regardless of size or gender.

The Fourth “S”= Surprise

By having and using the element of surprise you now place momentum on your side. Remember what I have stated earlier “There’s no such thing as a dirty fighter…only an educated one” So if someone calls you out and begins taking off his jacket as he is taking off his jacket–attack him then¬–and keep attacking till you know he won’t be getting up. Also if someone calls you outside to fight when he turns around to walk out the door, hit him with a chair while his back is towards you, or strike him using your favorite tactic. There’s no such thing as a dirty fighter and if people want to call you that, then they have no idea what street fighting is about.

If you are in a situation where you are minding your own business and someone approaches you in a threatening manner, play timid but in you’re mind you are tapping into your “killer instinct mindset” and getting ready to execute your “specialized sucker punch”. What is a specialized sucker punch? It is any tactic that you do to catch your enemy off guard without telegraphing your intentions, surprising him and overwhelming him with your assault.

It could be bringing your hands in surrender mode and talking with your hands while stating “I don’t want any tro…” before you finish your phrase, you attack in mid sentence catching him off guard with either a finger jab to the eyes or a palm upwards to your enemies chin, and continue your assault till your enemy can’t get up off the ground..

Another way of doing this would be if you have a drink in your hand. Play timid. State your phrase, and before finishing it, throw that drink in your enemies face. What this will do is cause a shock response to your enemy and will temporarily impair their vision, so you can then follow through with a more devastating tactic or to just get out of harms way. Regardless if its water, alcohol or hot coffee this tactic is very effective, especially if it’s hot coffee, for your enemy will begin screaming like a little girl.

This tactic can also be done with dirt being thrown into your enemy’s eyes. Let’s say you are walking late at night down a street and there is someone following you. If you sense something might be up, listen to your gut instinct. Kneel down and pretend to tie your shoe, look back to see who is there and grab some dirt and keep it in your hand. If there is trouble then throw it into your enemies’ eyes, and follow through. Bottom line is to catch your enemy off guard by using your environment, playing timid or just by attacking in mid phrase. This then puts momentum on your side and all your enemy can do is go into a defensive state.

To read more from this chapter go to Street Fighting Secrets to order your copy of Street Fighting Secrets

2009-05-09T23:32:00.000-07:00

Grip Conditioning For Street Fighting

2009-03-26T23:50:00.000-07:00

THAI BOXING MYTH

I belong to an organization called "The Street Fighter's Forum" which is on Facebook and I would like to invite everyone who is interested in learning real world street fighting tactics to join it's free and there is a ton of great stuff in this forum. Now a post was made yesterday by a couple of ego crazed mma fighter's stating that they can do this and that and God knows what else and basically they are unstoppable which we all know is bullshit because when you go into a street fight anything goes and that included weapons.

Unfortunately these dumb asses thought they can also stop bullets with there mma skills, I can definitely tell these guys never had a real fight in there lives. Now to make a long story short they stated that shin kicks would not effect them due to there conditioned shins. Now true that mma 's have tough shins when there up against another mma that is barefoot or when there shins are clashing against one another when they both kick at the same time. Now the myth is this that it's not going to effect them if you kick them in the shins in a street fight.

This is incorrect information even though they may not feel as much pain as the average person it will still effect them why because in a street fight your wearing shoes or boots. If you are like me then your wearing steel toe boots. I have dropped average conditioned men kicking them once in the shins and when dealing with mma's have have dropped them kicking them several times in the shins. Variables such as being kicked with steel toes boots changes the dynamics of the fight.

Remember in the street fight there are no rules or ref's a lot of people tend to think that mma is street effective when in fact it's a sport. Have you ever seen during a grappling situation in the cage a person bite then pull out a knife and stab his opponent in the balls? Then it's not a real fight... for real fights don't have ref's or rules.

2009-03-23T23:23:00.001-07:00

How To Read Body Language Cues When It Comes To Violence

When it comes to communication what we say really doesn’t account for much. Words only represent 10% of the message that we are trying to communicate and our voice only represents 30%. Our body language actually represents 60% of the message that we send out to the receiver.

So the big question is what are the signs to look out for that tells, us that the person in front of us is going to attack. Most martial arts and self defense schools never go over this type of information which leaves practitioners either using force when the person in front of them had no intention of getting physical or the opposite where practitioners miss the cues and don’t see what’s coming until it’s too late.

So here are some signs to look out for that will indicate that the person in front of you is going to become physical with you.

-Tight jaw line
-Clinched teeth
-Red face
-Staring at you more than 70% of the time
-Subjects fixed eyes suddenly fades off somewhere and then
comes back
-Clinched fist
-Subject is quiet, people who yell are usually venting and release
aggression this way, so always watch out for the quiet ones
-Stance becomes grounded subject is preparing to strike
-Subject holds his breathe - most people before striking will do this
-Trying to invade your personal space

By knowing and looking out for these body language cues your chances of being sucker punched decrease because you know what people’s true intentions are regardless of what they are telling you. Remember it’s not about what people say but how they are saying it.

2009-03-01T23:38:00.001-08:00

BITE & JAW CONDITIONING FOR STREET FIGHTING

2009-02-12T23:08:00.000-08:00

ANAL SELF DEFENSE COUCH POTATOES

The other day I get a reply from some dumb ass who had just watched one of my YouTube videos regarding biting and he makes a post that even though I state that it is very difficult to get HIV/AIDS through biting that you can still get other disease such as Hep C and such if you bite.

Here's where my beef comes in I don't teach street fighting to kids who want to get into fights after school and such. I teach people who have to survive real life threatening situations such as someone getting raped or someone trying to protect there wife or child from some psycho.

So tell me would you actually be thinking I can't bite this guy cause I might get sick I will just let him rape me and take my chances and let him give me whatever disease he has when he cums inside me or better yet I won't bite his finger off cause I don't want HEP C he can kidnap my kid and I can live with that decision cause I will be disease free.

That was my bitch for the day, just can't stand people who have no experience with real violence then decide to comment on it, trying to look smart when they have no clue on what there talking about.

2009-02-01T22:57:00.001-08:00

LEARN THE ULTIMATE STREET FIGHTING TACTIC & COUNTER

2008-12-28T22:53:00.001-08:00

HAMMER FIST: THE BEST MOUNT POSITION STRIKE

2008-12-19T23:08:00.000-08:00

WEAPONS CONCEALMENT IN YOUR HOME FOR SELF DEFENSE SITUATIONS

I always tell my students that it is better to be overly prepared then to be under prepared and to make life easier for yourself when it comes to self defense to use whatever you can in your environment as a weapon and to carry a self defense product on yourself at all times. I myself carry at least 3 different weapons on me at all times.

So today's post talks about hiding weapons in your home so if an emergency situation exists you have items around you that you can easily grab and use to knock the snot out of your attacker. Now the best places to place weapons in your home is near all the entrances as well as next to your bed in case you have someone breaking into your home while your sleeping it is right there an arms reach away.

Now when placing these items in these areas always hide them so that only you and your loved ones know where they are. You do not want the criminal entering your home opening the door and finding a pipe next to the door. Sure enough he will grab it and use it on you. Now the best places to hide weapons is on top of door frames where you can easily hide a knife, pipe or screw diver. As well conceal weapons in a book shelf, under your pillow, under the bed or behind a night stand.

When it comes to concealing weapons near doors have a coat rake near the doorway with an old coat hanging on it there you can conceal anything from a pipe to pepper spray without anyone assuming that there is a weapon near by. Make sure it is easily assessable so that you can simply grab your weapon in a split seconds notice without having to dig around for it.

2008-11-22T22:06:00.000-08:00

SELF DEFENSE TIPS WHEN PARTNERED UP WITH SOMEONE

Lets say you are walking down the street with your spouse and all of a sudden you are held up at gun point by someone. Now you want to avoid violence at all costs but lets say you can't and you have to fight. You now have an issue to think about and that is the safety of of your spouse that is next to you. You normally can execute your gun disarming tactic but this time since you are with someone you could put your partner in danger because when you execute your self defense tactic the gun will go off and could possibly harm your partner. So how do you work around this?

By having a code word that you and your spouse know that tells your spouse to drop to the ground. So lets say the code word is "Don't harm us we have kids" that tells your spouse that to drop to the ground because you are either going to pull your firearm out or execute a self defense technique. This also works for 2 or more man security teams where one person is the "talker" and when he says the words "We don't seem to be getting anywhere" tells the rest of the team to move in and get physical. Remember have a mild "safe word" do not use words such as "Now" or "Go" for this will make the attacker ready for your actions and will take the element of surprise away from you.

2008-10-26T22:09:00.000-07:00

SELF DEFENSE TRAINING TIP FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT & SECURITY PERSONNEL

I truly believe that you are only half as good as when you train when it comes to executing your self defense tactics in real life scenarios. So this post will help security and law enforcement personnel get more realism and effectiveness out of there training. When you practice restraint holds or handcuffing techniques have the subject place message oil on there entire arm, this way when you try executing an arm bar or try grabbing the subjects wrist when trying to cuff him it will simulate the slipperiness that sweat can cause when trying to subdue and control someone. As well you will find that when you do execute these techniques for real they will seem easier to perform because of this training method that you have incorporated.

2008-10-12T22:13:00.000-07:00

"REAL" STREET FIGHTING VIDEOS

Today's post I would like to discuss the issue of street fighting videos posted on such sites as You Tube and others. I would like to state that these are by no means "real" street fighting videos. Just because two guys fight in front of a camera on the street doesn't meant its a street fight. These so called street fighter's are people who prearrange a fight to take place at a certain location and rules are set on what can be done and what can't during the fight. Far from anything like a "real" street fight.

If you want to take a look at a "real" street fight, watch footage from security camera's outside of bars or in other locations. You will see that it's not only fists that come out in the fight but also weapons and 5 on 1 situations happen as well. So if you want to learn from video footage on how to be a better realistic fighter stop watching these fake street fights being filmed in some parking lot for in real street fights there are no rules only dirty moves, sucker punches, low blows cuz anything goes for if I can't take out my blade or any other weapon to stop you then it's not a real fight.

2008-09-28T20:02:00.000-07:00

BLOCKING KICKS IN SELF DEFENSE SITUATIONS

In the TACT Self Defense System we believe in the philosophy of killing two birds with one stone when we execute a self defense technique. Here this is what we do when we block a kick using the "shin kick block tactic" Instead of blocking kicks using your hand/fists which usually ends up damaging your hand and breaking a few fingers along the way, we block the kick using our lead foot. So an example of this would be if your attacker tried executing a kick straight for your groin you would simply bring your lead foot up and slam your heel onto the shin area of his leg.

This in turn will soften him up and slow his momentum down hard and fast due to all the sensitive nerves on the shin area. You have done two things at once, block his kick but disable him all at the same time with one quick simple tactic. From there you would then finish him off much easier and quicker.

2008-09-08T22:13:00.000-07:00

FIGHT OR FLIGHT WHEN IT COMES TO SELF DEFENSE

BRANDON, MAN. - A young man traveling on a Greyhound bus was stabbed at least 40 times and beheaded by a stranger in a horrifying act of apparently random violence.
The incident occurred on a bus traveling from Edmonton to Winnipeg on July 31/08. Now you would assume that someone on that bus full of people would help out since there were more passengers then just one lone attacker.

But the reality is most people go into flight response because fear takes over and people feel like they are having an outer body experience when visually experiencing such a horrifying act of violence. The reality is that most people will not help there fellow man but instead self preservation steps in and people run for cover and safety.

So instead of bull shitting yourself thinking if I ever do need help someone would come to the rescue so I can hold of on taking a combat/self defense course your only kidding yourself. The reality is you are out on your own to fend for yourself.

2008-08-23T10:32:00.000-07:00

KEEPING ON TOP OF THINGS IN THE SELF DEFENSE INDUSTRY

In this day and age of instant information we can keep on top of any topic easily and quickly. I believe that by keeping on top of new products in the self defense industry will keep you on your toes and save your ass as well. Here is an example by staying on top of new self defense products you not only know what you can purchase to protect yourself with but you can also be aware of what to look out for when it come to your staying aware of possible weapons that your attacker may have.

Nowadays most ordinary items can be innocent looking but in reality are self defense weapons. You can now purchase pepper spray rings, cell phones which are tasers, pen knifes and the list can go on and on. So stay on top of things by visiting a self defense weapons site and taking a look at what's new on the market that way you know what to look out for when dealing with an attacker so your not caught off guard.

2008-08-06T22:11:00.000-07:00

OVERCOMING YOUR PERSONAL FEARS

Everyone has a fear of some sort when it comes to combat. It may be that people have a fear of being hit with a fist or with an object such as a pipe. Others may have the fear of dealing with someone with an edged weapon. Regardless of what your fear is the only way to overcome your fear is to face it head on.

So how to you go about facing these demons head on, well by having a trainer who you can trust but as well is highly trained and experienced in what he is doing. When I first started training years ago I had a habit of closing my eyes whenever I was hit in the face so to overcome this fear my trainer would use my face & body as a punching bag. This would force me to look dead on onto a punch that was connecting to my face. After awhile my fear was gone because I know I could handle getting hit in the face with a fist because I experienced it so often that it was like an every day event to me.

As well I had a fear of dealing with knifes so my trainer would first teach me knife disarming tactics using a rubber knife then after I knew the tactic well enough he would use a real knife in a controlled manner whenever practicing disarming techniques. This exercise made me comfortable when cold steel was presented in a situation because I had dealt with the issue so many times during training and was immume to the stimuli of cold steel.

Now this training is not for everyone and you have to be under the supervision of a trained professional to train in this manner. I have taught this method to my students for years now and have never cut or hurt anyone because I can do this exercise in a controlled safe manner. This exercise needs to be done with someone you can trust but as well someone who is a professional who knows what he is doing and is not just any joe blow off the street or dojo.

By training this way you will overcome your fears in rapid time not only in combat but in your everyday life as well because your confidence will increase ten fold. Remember this MUST be done with a professional trainer, most people teaching martial arts or combat do not have this type of skill level but those people that you find who do, network with them and watch your self confidence explode to unimaginable new levels.

2008-07-20T00:13:00.000-07:00

HOW TO SPOT SOMEONE WITH A CONCEALED WEAPON

In this post I would like to go over how someone can spot or pick up signs that there is a criminal who is carrying a concealed weapon on them. Remember awareness is your best weapon when it comes to your personal self defense without it you cannot avoid or respond in time to the danger coming your way. Below are some suggestions taken from the site www.frontsight.com

•Wearing concealment garments such as a jacket, coat, or vest when it is noticeably too hot for such attire.

•Wearing a coat that is completely unzipped when weather is cold enough to warrant a zipped jacket.

•Wearing a shirt with the tail out and or only buttoned near the top.
Note that most criminals do not carry a gun in a holster. The most common method of carry is to slip the gun inside their waistband near the front pocket of their pants or in the small of their back.

•Repeatedly touching the areas where you would likely carry a gun to adjust it when walking.

•Excessively keeping one hand in the pocket to keep the gun stabilized or to camouflage the print of the gun through the clothing.

•When running, pressing a hand against clothing in an attempt to stabilize the gun.

•When walking, only swinging one arm, using the other arm to stabilize the gun or to prevent concealment garment from opening in a breeze.

•When your eyes meet, the criminal looks down quickly to where the gun is concealed or moves an arm to cover the possible printing of the weapon against his clothing, then avoids any eye contact with you and moves away.

•Clothing that does not fit properly due to the weight of the gun in a pocket of a jacket pulling the collar.

•The centerline of the pants in the crotch or buttock area pulled excessively to one side due to the gun being placed inside the waistband.

•Bulges under the clothes in the waist area.

•Bulky pockets.

•Printing of the shape of the gun against the clothing or actually seeing the gun when bending over, reaching overhead, or turning.

•Hearing the sound of something solid (the gun) striking a door frame, counter, shopping cart, etc.

If you do see someone carrying a concealed weapon do not approach them instead call 911 and let the authorities deal with the situation since they have the training, weapons and back up to deal with the situation more safely than you do.

2008-07-14T22:54:00.000-07:00

KILL ZONES IN SELF DEFENSE SITUATIONS

Here is an interesting article from US Concealed Carry that was forwarded to me from a friend. Just click the link or copy & paste it to your browser if the link doesn't work.

http://www.usconcealedcarry.org/InnerCircle/free/KillZone.html

2008-07-01T10:09:00.000-07:00

NEW TACT SELF DEFENSE T's

We have just launched our brand new "Primal Fighter" TACT Self Defense t-shirts. To view and order your t-shirt just go to www.tactselfdefense.com/tshirt.php

2008-06-15T10:46:00.000-07:00

LEG WRAP TAKE-DOWN

2008-05-25T12:13:00.000-07:00

One Legged Take-Down Self Defense Tactic

2008-05-19T10:05:00.000-07:00

PRACTICING SELF DEFENSE PRINCIPLES WHEREVER YOU ARE

Violence and crime can happen anytime wherever we go. A situation such as going out for dinner with family and friends may seem like there is no threat to that situation but it can be in a blink of an eye. An incident a while back occurred at a high end restaurant near where I live. Where two men enter the restaurant and execute a hit on a local gang member who was having dinner there. Now this is not the bad side of town this is a high end area and this type of crime occurred here so people thinking that they have nothing to worry about because they don't live around drug dealers and such are giving themselves a false since of security because violence can happen anywhere.

Now I don't want people reading this and thinking that wherever they go they have to be paranoid that is not the objective of this post. The objective is being prepared so if shit does hit the fan your odds of survival will double because you know what to do. Now what would you do in this situation? How would you deal with a shoot out in a restaurant that you were eating in? What would be the best area to be seated in? What should be the first thing you do when you hear a gun go off?

Well here are a few things that will help you out. First try seating with you back towards a wall so you don't have to worry about someone being behind you. Try being seated next to an exit areas to have an escape route. Also at the first sound of gun fire drop to the ground and take cover using a table or chairs. Make it a habit in your everyday life whenever entering a room or establishment to follow these rules, back to wall, near exists, find an object that will cover you so your odds of survival increase.

2008-05-04T23:43:00.001-07:00

2008-04-26T12:52:00.001-07:00

KNIFE DISARMING TACTICS USING CHAIRS

2008-04-21T10:05:00.000-07:00

KNEE STRIKE CONDITIONING EXERCISES FOR SELF DEFENSE PURPOSES

If you want to build more explosive power and speed into your knee tactics here is an exercise that you can practice to give you that. Squat done and have a partner hold a striking pad at his hip level. Now begin jumping up and hit the pad with your knee. Alternate striking with each knee upon each rep. This will not only give you explosive knee techniques but will also strengthen your quads.

2008-04-14T10:08:00.000-07:00

USING KEYS IN SELF DEFENSE SITUATIONS

One question I ask people who walk into my training centre is "Do you carry a self defense weapon or product?" Many people give me the response that they hold there keys in there hand in event that a situation may arise they are ready to defend themselves.

When I ask people to show me how they hold there keys most of them hold them in the wrong manner. There is a big myth that you place your key or keys in between your fingers, but if you were to strike someone holding the keys that way the keys will turn into your hand when you make impact. Instead place the key in between your thumb and finger so that the key is secure.

2008-04-07T10:23:00.000-07:00

BLOCKING WITH YOUR ELBOWS IN SELF DEFENSE SITUATIONS

There is a tactic that we use in the TACT Self Defense System that we call "defanging the snake" where in theory you are taking away the snakes teeth by hitting it's mouth. Well this theory is done also by using your elbows to block a punch or punches coming at you by blocking with your elbows. The end result is that your attacker hurts his hands as he punches your elbows which in turn slows him down because his hand is hurt taking his weapons away from him and giving you the ability to counter.

2008-03-24T10:40:00.000-07:00

DO SELF DEFENSE GUN DISARMING TECHNIQUES WORK?

There are tons of gun disarming techniques out there but how many of them would actually work for you in a self defense situation? Well a good way to finding this out is to test them out yourself while doing it under circumstances as close as possible to real life situations where adrenaline and your attackers responses are in true form.

Now when you have that all taken care of try executing some of these weapons disarming tactics that you have seen and see if they will work for you. Remember people holding guns at someone will either keep there distance from you and or there grip will be strong while holding the gun. Many people find that when adding these variables to the situation there techniques do not work.

There are many videos out there where someone will "twist" a gun from an attacker's hand while braking his finger in the process because his finger gets jammed in the trigger guard while the technique is being executed. Now the reality is no one holds a gun that loose so that disarming technique is not as easily accomplished as people think it can be. Remember test the tactics including real life variables then you won't get any surprises when you need to use them for real.

2008-03-10T10:18:00.000-07:00

IN SELF DEFENSE IT'S ABOUT HOW FAST YOU CAN ELEVATE VIOLENCE

What is the difference between an elite military fighter and you when it comes to dealing and being successful with violence? The answer is that an elite military fighter knows how to elevate the level of violence within a split second and most civilians do not. When it comes to being successful with dealing with violence you have to be able to elevate the violence level much quicker than your attacker this in turn will make you successful in surviving an attack.

Thats why when most people are asked who do they fear most when it comes protecting themselves against the answer is a crazed psycho. Why? Because a psycho knows how to elevate the violence level and can keep it elevated for longer periods of time than most people. So remember practice getting into the "killer instinct mode" or "psycho Mode" before executing your self defense tactics for combat is 90% mental and only 10% physical.

2008-03-03T11:24:00.000-08:00

SELF DEFENSE CONDITIONING EXERCISE TO BUILD SPEED IN YOUR STRIKES

A lot of people ask me how do they get more speed when executing a self defense technique such as a palm thrust or kick? Well a simple exercise to do is to either grip onto a 5 lb dumbbells or to place wrist/ankle weights on and to begin throwing your kicks or palm thrusts out. Now the major mistake most people make is that they focus on how fast they can hit the target from the start position. Instead focus on how fast your retraction is instead. This will make your kicks and punches much quicker. Do 30 reps per each hand/foot, take a 1 minute rest in between sets perform 4 sets.

2008-02-11T10:13:00.000-08:00

"THE RIPPER" SELF DEFENSE CONDITIONING EXERCISE

I have just finished up shooting my new dvd called "Guerrilla Combatives Conditioning". A dvd that teaches viewers the best conditioning and strength exercises for street fighting. This dvd should be out in the next couple of weeks and I will have it posted on my website at www.tactselfdefense.com. The exercise that I would like to talk about today is from that dvd it is called "the ripper".

A conditioning exercises that teaches people how to properly bite a body part off someone. To perform this exercise grab a piece of thick cooked ham or piece of cooked meat, cooked ham is the cheapest. Now bite into it and tear the meat off, do this as fast as you can, tear, spit, tear, spit. This exercise will give you a better biting and tearing tactic while teaching you how much force is needed to actually take a chunk of meat out of someone.

2008-02-04T11:51:00.000-08:00

CANE SELF DEFENSE

The other day I was doing an interview for a newspaper regarding the use of canes in self defense situations and thought this would be a good topic to cover today. The first thing I would like to say is keep it simple do not get into doing wrist locks etc with the cane it becomes to complicated do to you have to use fine motor skills which we know does work in self defense situations. Instead use the cane as a baton to hit your attacker with and immediately follow up by using your taser or pepper spray.

In reality if you are using a cane for actual support then this will be hard for you to do because your legs are weak and you can easily fall down, these cane self defense tactics should only be used by people who use a cane as a walking stick. On a final note do not get a solid wooden cane instead get a folding steel cane these are much harder and if your attacker grabs your cane the cane can be twisted and bent and still used on your attacker, where with solid wooden canes if your attacker grabs a hold of it he can easily push you down with the momentum.

2008-01-28T10:41:00.000-08:00

GUN DISARMING SELF DEFENSE TRAINING

When I train people to disarm someone with a gun when this is your last resort I tell them to slowly bring up there hands and as they do once there hands are at the gun level they hit and grab the hand holding the gun as they twist they torso so they are out of the line of fire. Know this technique is simple if you are alone but what happens when you are with someone? You have to now think about if your friend is going to be in the line of fire once you hit and redirect the direction of the mussel for the gun will most likely go off as you hit your attackers hand.

So a great exercise to do is to have a training partner point a fake gun at you and as he does he is going to either say "left" or "right" at the last minute. This means your friend is on the side that your train partner said. Now you have to think about hitting the mussel in the opposite direction from where your friend is. This is a great tactical thinking exercise and remember to make this as spontaneous as possible so you get the most realism out of it.

2008-01-24T09:59:00.000-08:00

TURNING AN UMBRELLA INTO A SELF DEFENSE WEAPON

Umbrella's are something that we use commonly in our lives that we don't realize can make an ideal self defense weapon. If you use the shorter type model these can make ideal batons especially if you hit with the handle part of the umbrella. They also make good shields when open if you are ever in a situation where someone is thrusting a knife at you. The longer style type of umbrellas make great stabbing tools with there pointing tips. Make it a habit to see what you can use in your daily lives as weapons to protect yourself with. You will be surprised on how many weapons you actually have around you.

2008-01-21T12:11:00.000-08:00

FOLLOWING NATURAL INSTINCTIVE RESPONSES IN SELF DEFENSE SITUATIONS

The other day I was watching a clip of an actual store robbery gone bad. The store clerk was standing behind the counter as a robber comes in. The robber jumps over the counter wielding a knife, demands money then proceeds to stab the cashier for no reason. Watching the clerks natural response was interesting all do to the fact that he did what I tell my students to do in a stabbing situation. The store clerk curled his body forward while shielding his torso/chest with his forearms from the knife thrusts.

Now the clerk never trained in my system but like I say you have to have thoughtless natural responses to life threatening situations or you just forgot everything and your a goner. The store clerk survived with only superficial cuts to his forearms. So keep it natural, simple and remember when dealing with knife situations you are most likely going to get cut, anyone telling you otherwise is full of it.

2008-01-17T11:06:00.000-08:00

SELF DEFENSE QUOTE OF THE WEEK

"There are some things you don't have to know how it works – only that it works. While some people are studying the roots, others are picking the fruit. It just depends on which end of this you want to get in on." -- Jim Rohn

2008-01-14T12:08:00.000-08:00

SELF DEFENSE FROM SUFFOCATION & STRANGULATION

The first thing people do when they find themselves being suffocated or strangulated is panic and all simple logic goes out the window so it is vital to train using these two types of attacks. The first is having someone strangle you with a rope or belt. The best self defense tactic you can execute is to tuck in your chin to prevent the rope or belt from getting around your neck, if it goes around your chin it will be ok because you can still breathe.

If the rope or belt does get completely around your neck place one or two of your fingers in between the rope or belt and your neck. This will prevent you from getting choked unconscious. If you have a plastic bag put over your face simple poke a hole into the bag and this will prevent you from being suffocated. You may feel freaked out but in reality you are safe. Remember to practice this on a regular basis so you get used to the uncomfortable feelings that goes along with this.

2008-01-10T11:00:00.000-08:00

DEALING WITH MULTIPLE ATTACKERS IN SELF DEFENSE SITUATIONS

When dealing with multiple attackers there are a few rules that seems to help with surviving such a situation the first is to never be in the middle of the group, try maintaining a line with you and the group. Second be offensive hit first and hit the biggest guy or the mouthy one this will cause a physiological effect onto the group that once they see the leader go down they usually back down or are more hesitant to continue attacking.

2008-01-06T15:42:00.000-08:00

SELF DEFENSE MINDSET TRAINING

2008-01-03T10:10:00.000-08:00

SELF DEFENSE QUOTE OF THE DAY

"The ability to simplify means to eliminate the
unnecessary so that the necessary may speak." Hans Hofmann

2007-12-31T10:25:00.000-08:00

IS STRIKING THE GROIN AN EFFECTIVE SELF DEFENSE TECHNIQUE?

Many people who write to me ask if attacking the groin is an effective self defense technique to protect themselves with since most self defense schools teach striking this area of the body. The answer to this question is sometimes since there are many variables that have to be in place to make striking this area effective. You have to remember that every man is taught at a very young age to protect this area because it is one of the first areas to get hit, so a simple squeezing the upper thighs together usually can get the job done when protecting this area.

The other variable that needs to be considered is that when someone is wearing clothing such as jeans it changes the effectiveness of your self defense technique drastically. When training most people wear loose clothing such as track pants or a martial arts uniform but on the street most people wear jeans. Now try grabbing or twisting the groin area of someone now, much harder now since that variable came into the picture isn't it? This does not go to say that it is not an effective area to strike but be prepared that it may not work so well for you and that many variables need to be in place for it to work for you.

2007-12-24T10:05:00.000-08:00

SELF DEFENSE TIPS FROM IDENTITY THEFT

The results are in the biggest and most problematic crime for 2007 was identity theft and it's growing at a rapid rate. The reason it's on the rise is due to people's lack of knowledge on what to not give out when it comes to information on themselves.
Social networking sites such as Facebook are a great example. When filling out profiles on this site or on any others avoid giving out your date of birth, address, phone number or full name. By having this information on your profile you give criminals everything they need to steal your identity away from you.

2007-12-21T10:23:00.000-08:00

HOW TO PRACTICE REALISTIC SELF DEFENSE BITING TECHNIQUES

You have heard me say countless times that one of the most powerful self defense techniques out there is biting. No matter what position you are in this self defense tactic can usually be executed and is very successful without having to have much skill at it.

Now the question is how do you practice this self defense technique? Well there is a realistic way and that is by buying meat such as pork because its the cheapest, frying it up and then practicing biting it and tearing the meat off the pork chop. This will give you a realistic feel on how much force you need behind your bite and tear to get the job done correctly.

2007-12-17T11:04:00.000-08:00

FINDING VARIABLES IN SELF DEFENSE TECHNIQUES

A good question to ask yourself whenever you learn a new self defense technique is "If something could go wrong what would it be?" From here you can see if the self defense tactic you are using is realistic or full of fluff. Ask questions such as if the attacker has a longer reach than me could I still do this?, If I was fighting in a confined area could I still move this way? If my attacker was on higher ground would my self defense technique be successful still? If my body was pumped full of adrenaline would I still be able to execute this tactic involving fine motor coordination? By asking these questions and being honest with the answer you will get no surprises when you have to put them to the ultimate test.