How to Draw for the Fight. Bill Rapier, Field Notes Ep. 51

Bill Rapier of Amtac Shooting discusses the necessity of a one handed draw and how to create space in a combative scenario.
Bill Rapier spent 20 years in the U.S. Navy SEAL teams with the last 14 as a member of the Naval Special Warfare Development Group (DEVGRU). His assignments included assaulter, breacher, sniper, team leader, troop chief, and military working dog department senior enlisted adviser. Bill is a black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu under Gustavo Machado (Virginia Beach), has been training in Sayoc Kali since 2006, and has trained in western and Thai boxing as well. Bill is now the owner/operator of American Tactical Shooting Instruction & Amtac Blades.
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[@wisemencompany]

The benefits from training this type of draw stroke are often over looked. Great video.

[@SONofLIBERTY]

Agreed. I've always found it to be faster with a one handed technique for strongside carry.

[@indicaonly2143]

Always overlooked

[@chadblaha69]

Bills one of the best out there. One handed draw makes total sense when you start implementing it in practice. Thanks Bill! 👊🇺🇸

[@josephtetiofficial]

I dont know Bill, but it is very obvious he trains like he fights. Super important. Folks need to go hands on from time to time to keep it real. You dont want to wait til the moment of truth to try techniques like this for the first time. Super professional guy.

[@kirk189]

Bill is the best

[@Inkd_watkins]

No nonsense video. Thank you

[@timothycummins2700]

This man is a realist & I love it.

[@BurgBrad]

Incredibly valid points. I’ve always trained with both a single and double handed draw due to this. People don’t often realize that IF they actually have to draw a pistol, it won’t be “range quality” timing and distance, rather right in tour face violence! Keep up the great instructional videos because these are things that “billy badasses” who have never been in a fun fight don’t realize. God bless!

[@vafamf]

I recently trained with Bill in his Low Vis pistol, rifle and integrative combative course and it was outstanding. Anyone getting a chance to train with him would find it well worth the time and money.

[@brandonfisher4436]

Outstanding

[@SpecialK6685]

Really nice stuff. Reminds me of moves from Kali/Filipino martial arts regarding drawing a knife in the same situation.

[@louispittman7367]

Bill trained a LOT of Kali/Eskrima as well as having a black belt in Jui-Jitsu under Machado brothers.

[@harleydavison4526]

Hell Yeah! John Wick learned from Bill Rapier!! Awesome, all jokes aside it's great to see that someone that Actually Knows what they're doing no bullshit! Thanks for sharing your knowledge!!!! 👍🇺🇸⚓

[@sgtmajorburtontruxel1497]

Yes, I really like this approach, crucial training is stressed here. Best advice "Training" I trained various martial arts back in the day, training MMA, Before even new what MMA was .. I will not go in the event; involved a longgun (shotgun) but the training saved my life. This is a very good, solid technique!

[@BassFlatsBeyond]

I think this video does a great job highlighting why the Shivworks system is superior for entangled gunfighting. A couple problems I see with his demonstration, 1. they are drawing the gun inside the reactionary gap. As such the opponents can alway get a hand on the gun, and cause a malfunction. One should establish a control by taking the back before accessing a weapon. 2. He’s always floating the gun in this video. This allows the opponent to grab the gun, and it has the potential of sending rounds into the public. To mitigate that risk, maintain a high thumb-pectoral index and use your whole body to aim the gun.

[@thumper9633]

I've trained with both Bill and Craig Douglas and found their approaches to fit very well together and consider both of them to be the leaders in armed combative training. That said, this video shows one approach to a particular problem, not every problem. Conversely, taking the back is a viable approach if you are facing a single threat, who (1) isn't better at grappling than you (2) doesn't have the stand up skills to negate your grappling skills before you can lay hands, and (3) doesn't have a blade that he knows how to use. Shivworks ECQC is one of the must-do courses in my opinion, and so is Bill's Integrated Combatives (or any of his courses for that matter). Another thing to consider, Bill Rapier is a legit BJJ blackbelt, so if taking the back is the appropriate solution to a given problem, he certainly knows how to get there.

[@jamesmanning8795]

@@thumper9633 that's awesome that you have taken both classes. I'd really like to take the ECQC class from Shivworks. I like to hear your opinion on this since you had both classes but I was not impressed from what was presented in the 6 mins of this video. I basically agree with all of Bass Flats & Beyond's points. Plus It really looks like he flags himself with all the arm flailing.

[@thumper9633]

@@jamesmanning8795 Understood, Bill is not as refined in how he presents on video. Meaning he tends to be very dynamic/energetic in demo versus Craig. I assume that's a function of Craig having more time and inclination in front of cameras. Regardless, I could write a point for point comparison but I think reviewer context is more useful, as you can then rank where I fall in terms of potential course reviewers. I've done about 50 two-to-five day training courses since leaving the military decades ago. 20 years in a stand-up martial art, three years high school wrestling, six years BJJ, and a few other things mixed in there including Sayoc Kali. Bill's combative courses feature more shooting and transition from primary to hands-on techniques and back. Craig's ECQC seemed more focused on "the clinch" and how to accomplish a reversal once down and mounted. Bill's perspective seems to be colored more by his experience fighting multiple bad guys during GWOT, Craig's seems to be influenced primarily by his UC experience. Summary: Both of these guys are top notch and teaching mostly complimentary concepts and techniques. If you go to Bill's Integrated Combatives you will get a deep dive into part of the puzzle, follow that with ECQC and you will get a deep dive into a related piece of the puzzle. Put those five days together and you have a more complete approach to Combatives than either course alone. So, in my opinion, it's not an either or question as to which instructor you should train with.

[@davidleesin112]

this video was so freaking cool, i've been "shooting" since i was 11 , by shooting , learning how to handle a weapon, checking where safeties are & finding my sights, all that you have to learn, i edc since i was 25ish , but i've never taken a class on self defense, dudes , by today's standards we all should as soon as we're permitted to carry or even before to help bolster that confidence, i've done it dry in my home but never a class or maybe get a chance to try some @ the range, really enjoyed the video, keep up the good work

[@basfallon]

Great teaching video.

[@scdave100]

Such good information.

[@justinsmith5130]

The scenario should also set up the use of a knife or some other weapon considering you wouldn't be drawing your pistol in a fist fight. Bill knows far more than I do, just something that came to my mind while observing.

[@petercrawford8112]

Great info I will work this into my training Thanks

[@cheech911]

Thoughts. Words. DEEDS

[@zulubravo5136]

Thanks Bill!

[@jamestrantham1588]

I noticed that by stepping forward, you in effect create more distance from the opponent to your firearm. I also noticed that you circle to your left, which helps to keep that distance.

[@easbreid9879]

I have an autistic 3 yr old, so having that free arm definitely makes sense bc I will always put myself between him and harms way. Good stuff, not usually how I train but I definitely get it

[@mspears81]

Thanks Bill! Great video!

[@celticanglotx313]

Thanks Bill for the awesome video.

[@ironwoodtactics8778]

Ty Sir!

[@dowth3]

THANK YOU for this! Bless you.

[@dbcooper5185]

Great training Bill! Thanks

[@csiipahoa2857]

I like your thinking. I wear my gear so I can use either hand for essentials.

[@jaredandrews379]

Thanks for sharing this!

[@lucasdelossantos8402]

This is a real life saving technique - However- It’s main use is only a primary counter if you have NO space behind you. The first technique for all up close combat - its always CREATE SPACE. Quickly- Take a back (not overstretch) long step with the leg and hip where your holster/gun is located-while moving backwards and creating the space-draw. I’m knowledgeable about martial arts. Try it. This is the most important technic of every close combat technique. CREATE SPACE. Must be internalized (muscle memory). Practice military March backwards. Left Right.

[@dhsonsoutdoors5940]

This guy needs his own channel

[@dianesmith8620]

Thank u 1000 percent

[@paulm.6966]

Awesome! Another thing you can do is just back up a step or two to give you more spaceto draw your gun !

[@irishdefense77]

Big mistake to back up in CQB.Now you’re defensive.You just gave up the advantage.Speed,surprise and violence of action.Where does backing up come into it?!Obviously you’ve never been in a gunfight.Get off the X means move laterally away to create distance-NEVER back up.

[@run2thefight]

This guy is an example of why people should be civilized towards each other and be respectful so....an altercation won’t take place and you get deaded

[@jimmyward2848]

Cream of the crop!

[@hasanmichael4966]

Add a nice head bunt while you’re drawing, could give some extra time. Getting smashed in the nose with a forehead doesn’t feel good. (I’ve never been hit in my nose by a forehead, but I have had my nose smashed, on accident, in a similar way so I know first hand how it could be very effective).

[@hasgunwilltravel6840]

You could buy a jframe for your front pocket and put your hand on it anytime someone may be sketchy. Then all you have to do is pull your hands out your pocket

[@danilojones7193]

This is really good, 👍🏾

[@normwilson117]

get the reps; you may have to fight to access tools or prevent someone else from accessing theirs; train the fundamentals, but don't stop - work up to unconventional

[@renc9543]

Nice. Because your left hand is occupied framing, you might be able to break the grip with your right knee or a duck under.

[@ergofoxxxy]

every time i see this with AIWB im thinking, demonstrate that with 2 or 3 oclock IWB carry and see the difference. IDK why so many people think AIWB is the only way to carry.

[@beardedred0032]

Serious question, why would we draw with someone that close to us? Wouldn't it make sense to not introduce a gun, until control, distance, or angle is established? Thanks for the info!

[@joeylaguna4694]

thanks

[@nightfury6836]

How many people were interrupted from training by the ping of this video? 😬 JUS KIDDING 😊 Awesome content Surefire 👌🏾

[@Gundog55]

I agree with the one handed draw. Question is “Wouldn’t creating space by backing up give me a bit more time to bring the gun up and in target vs in the middle of a struggle?”

[@DaveSmith-cp5kj]

You do both. Lateral movement is more controllable than going backwards.

[@chomps1211]

Great content,.. I would like to see these guys show, problem solving variations of these techniques for us “Fluffy” folks. In The real world, Age, injury, Krispy Cream, ect. has found a fair number of us EDC folks with Dun-Laps disease and muffin tops,.. love handles, and TB! (Two Bellies!) We aren't all “Lean & Mean.” So It would be very helpful to see some guys using these concepts and mentioning a few of the challenges for replicating any particular technique. Some of us folks watching would only be physically qualified for “Meal Teams & Gravy Seals!” 😉

[@erichball5935]

Great video man, thanks. What Holster do you use?

[@mahavakyas002]

was he on Operation Neptune Spear (UBL raid)?

[@gtdfirearmsllc4759]

Yeah. Having 2 hands is a luxury, so I typically practice to draw with only one hand.

[@MRsolidcolor]

good deal!

[@50shadesofcerakote]

Thats weird, I was just thinking about having to practice this last night..

[@kevinschmitting5205]

Are you guys using the bravoconcealment torsion holster?

[@MikeM4729]

Kevin Schmitting that’s Bill’s signature holster from Black Point Tactical the FO3

[@thumper9633]

Blackpoint Tactical Mini-Wing

[@beardedred0032]

When would/should we draw the gun at that distance?

[@SONofLIBERTY]

That would be impossible to say since that would depend on so many factors, but would always be ruled by the situation above all others.

[@Namesi]

When you have to.

[@glockmpw]

How well does this work when the gun is placed between two clothing layers? I mean, say wintertime where the gun may be placed over a base layer then covered with another overgarment such as a sweater or flannel?

[@gtdfirearmsllc4759]

Can be a bit trickier but still very doable. Just remember to test with an empty gun when trying out a new clothing setup.

[@DaveSmith-cp5kj]

The principle is the same. Your thumb is very long, it is capable of dragging a lot of fabric up.

[@musicman1eanda]

I chose a winter jacket that has enough flex to it that I can still perform my draw from appendix.

[@hafizaz-9858]

C a n d y b o y

[@barelygiven]

Nice video. Suggest a Rogers Range class where one handed drawing/shooting is taught 2/3rds of the class period. Many people do not practice one handed shooting, a critical skill. Rogersrangetx.com is awesome.

[@Frankdude72]

This technique isn't bad for the specific sort of circumstances it addresses (Empty hand gun grab defends vs. a single assailant). However, I wouldn't advocate it as a default or a first technique to learn to counter corta to clench distance assaults. Ideally, one should advocate techniques with less vulnerabilities to the possible presence of edged weapons and/or multiple attackers suddenly entering the mix. Even better if the basic steps of the technique translate over into using contact weapons (esp. knives) as well. Steve Miles' ALIVE / Mark Human / Tom Sotis' AMOK advocate a series of empty hand fends and footwork to break contact and create distance in order to facilitate an easier draw of weapons. Those who are seriously looking into gaining effective techniques to prevail in this arena should at the very least look into the above instructors' content and decide for themselves what is most effective over a broad spectrum of close quarters criminal assaults.

[@adamm7232]

Unfortunately I see this as an attacking move rather than reactionary, I see Andrew as the defender. The chance of your attacker starting their attack with a hidden weapon is low%. IMO, bill should have initiated the attack, those most often come as a punch or tackle/grab.

[@louispittman7367]

How many times have you blown holes in your shirt tail? I've done it plenty

[@seven73ify]

NO WAY!

[@CzystaMoc]

👍🔥

[@agonzalez8924]

What's with the 'sniff your armpit while shooting from the hip' stance? I swear, gun range mannerisms are fucking hilarious and weird sometimes.

[@TheWhiteboy40]

I believe in training and in training with real people when it comes to this type scenarios....But...Ask your self this. When is the last time you really got into a fight with someone? I'm sure it's been awhile. Training is better then no training but dont fool yourself in thinking it's all going to be so structured, its fucking not. The threat wants to take your head off just as much as you want to defend yours. One hand or two handed, practice and train both and also train with weak hand and any other scenario you can think of and then re-think of another. Threats are fast,and out for blood as well as we are. AIM FOR KNOWLEDGE W.T.D.

[@sawicinfo1051]

I carry a small bottle of glitter ✨ dazzle and frazzle

[@ansebbianvonhessen7570]

Great Technique, but cant afford to fumble then its lights out, risk for success ratio is low if not mastered!.....

[@pluckyarkansas1317]

I was buying milk and holding my kid and used this to shoot five MS-13 banditos.

[@botallica]

Real life John Wick

[@jamesmanning8795]

Craig Douglas' video was a lot better than this. I like hearing the differing opinion at least. I don't like that he is floating the gun around all over the place in stead of just having a thumb pectoral position that is consistent each time.

[@WesMerc]

Lots of “floating” the gun

[@nicolaassaaiman1257]

And if you don't carry one up....you are....

[@msteright]

You can’t escalate to deadly force with the other person being unarmed like this...

[@mikejeffsteel]

You guys need to get a grip on reality. Your scenario is that you're being attacked and you want to: protect your family AND draw your gun AND shoot with accuracy AND don't get shot... Are you Superman? In this scenario you grab your family and RUN to safety. From there you can draw with how many hands you like. Keep it simple and stay alive.

[@MikeM4729]

Did you watch the whole video? He only mentioned family in the first minute. When someone is grappling with you, how do you run away?

[@thumper9633]

Reality is that this a six and a half-minute video demonstrating one technique for a particular set of circumstances, at no point did he say "this is the only way to solve every problem". By the logic written above we would put most of our focus into sprinting drills instead of fighting. Which is fine if it's fine for you--or appropriate for a given situation--but most of the audience for this video is interested in more options, and the Run To Safety video wouldn't get many views (that said, if you take a class with Bill he will cover that as one possible solution to a threat). So I ask you, what if you can't break contact? What if the environment or the threat makes that a low-percentage solution?

[@soldieramerican5964]

I disagree

[@SONofLIBERTY]

Explain why you disagree. This technique is taught or atleast a variation of it across multiple training fields.

[@Namesi]

Nobody cares.