The Jim Wagner Knife Disarm Rule for Police & Military

There are four moves to effectively disarm any extreme close range knife attack. They are: 1. Grab 2. Close 3. Takedown 4. Escape. Sergeant Jim Wagner will show you the exact same techniques that he teaches to the world's elite. The Jim Wagner Knife Disarm Rule was first conceived by Sergeant Wagner when he was training soldiers of the Canadian military. Since then it has become the standard system for police and military units worldwide. This video was taped in 2001. All rights reserved.

[@seclista]

"To be a Master , you have to be a master of the BASICS" This is the best disarm video I had ever seen so realistic

[@markracadio5207]

Well said

[@MelFinehout]

I have watched at least 20 "knife disarm" videos. This is the first one I think is worthwhile. Every other one I always think "good luck with that!". I am going to train this. Thanks.

[@WildBillJP]

Mel Finehout good luck with that

[@jatbatman]

Yep most videos are done by people that have never seen a knife attack. The only thing wrong in this video is it's not a grab and stab as many full on knife attacks are.

[@arefrigerator396]

Perhaps you should go to an actual self defence class instead of relying on videos.

[@dannylane1349]

As a retired cop, Marine and Martial Arts Instructor I enjoyed the reality of Jim's approach to teaching knife defense. This is some great instruction and after 48 years of doing defenses I am always looking for better ways to teach and learn. Thanks Jim for the clips and I look forward to more.

[@rontedee8059]

Interesting. Do you suppose a boxing stance is most practical for knife defense? Less surface area for the neck, face, and torso to be targeted if I stay super tight? Only thing I can conceive doing if I'm being peppered is covering my vitals and stomping his knees to dust. Maybe if I'm lucky get an armdrag position established for a trip.

[@bdhtubal]

Simultaneous block & hits, open finger strike to eyes & kick groin & lower leg kick, it stops UFC fighters. Train your kicking it has longer range, your fast side or front kick could reach & STRIKE FIRST the attacker.

[@bdhtubal]

@Pat Luxor haven't you see mma & full contact fighters stopped in pain if finger poked in the eye or writhing & crawling in pain when hit in the crotch even with groin guard protection. Unless castrated 😁or got no balls. ✌🏼

[@christophermetz1550]

I love training knife disarms in Kali. Probably one of my favorite things actually because it's fast, never the same twice, and you learn real quick that in real life you will almost always get cut. My instructor teaches the same concepts you have here. Escape is the ultimate goal. Great video.

[@L3uX]

This is one of the most practical and real videos I've seen. Clear, simple, and straight to the point, which is absolute king in any kind of fight training and from what I've personally been in and seen pretty much backs up this. You wont have much or any time for that matter to do a fancy cross guard, your body and reactions will automatically revert to the fastest reaction and instinct possible which is what this kind of training supplements at the fundamental level. Also, a lot of people don't realize, when up against a double edge knife, you better goddamn grab onto that arm strong and don't let go and get your execution/take down quick. Your assailant pulls and frees his/her arm (whether tripping falling back, intentional, accidental, etc) while you're pinning it against arm, armpit, neck, mids, etc, you will get a seriously nasty cut on the way out and possibly putting you. Super important to realize that real knife/weapon fights aren't so smooth like other training videos.

[@tinmvn]

"Grab, close, takedown, escape." Not: "try to look like a badass from an action movie and get yourself killed."

[@cavebeastdemon3631]

"Grab, close, takedown, escape"... I have done it on the street! If you are not a "badass" it won't work! If you train properly and can learn to be calm in stressful situations it WILL work! If you learn Taekwondo at the strip mall, chances are you will not learn to practice properly or have an understanding of the principles of learning martial arts. That is why people say "this stuff don't work"! That is the only way I can explain it in a comment section.

[@calebbarrett7706]

The Instructor is definitely a Master and knows the basics well. If one doesn’t know the basics, it is just impossible to execute those defensive maneuvers. The reality of a knife attack is scary, brutal and fast but a well trained individual has a better chance to survive. Thanks for sharing this video.

[@jackmcdouglas4126]

Real life stuff is what matters, anything else is just a beautifully choreographilly ballet. Beauty won't save one's life. Hats off

[@IAP_mkt]

but beauty will save the world my friend

[@riclaming]

This is exactly what I have been searching for ever since. No fancy moves, just getting at each other because that is what it is in a real knife fight. As a fellow with the same uniform, this really helps me internalize the skill set rather than me always thinking of just pulling the trigger (if i ever get lucky of pulling my gun out) Thank you very, very much Officer Wagner.

[@jimwagnerrbpp]

Ricardo, you are very welcome. Keep training realistically. BE A HARD TARGET

[@yukafidah1]

I'm a Security Officer. We traditionally dont have backup. If I'm ever in a situation like this, I will use these valuable lessons. Thank you.

[@heyokah]

One of the better vids in regards to this topic. Nothing scripted, it shows potential flaws, and most importantly is emphasizes the need to close and escape. Grabbing is a natural reaction but Mr. Wagner explains that you can and most likely WILL be cut. The take down is important, although most will not be able to take down an attacker who means to do them bodily harm, but the emphasis on the escape is paramount. Controlling the weapon arm, thus controlling the body is effective but using the natural instincts of everyone (to grab) is what makes this work. Why attempt to retrain your instinct, mind, and reflex when you can utilize simple techniques that take advantage of them? Kudos to you Mr. Wagner.

[@joopsnoop]

Reality sucks. This is a great eye opener. Should be required watching for every martial arts instructor in the world who teaches anything to do with self defense.

[@jimwagnerrbpp]

I appreciate your comment. Thank you. Be A Hard Target.

[@KJ4RKB]

Jim Wagner excellent tutorial. In the Army they teach this. We are to separate ourselves so we can use our primary weapon.

[@dabunnyrabbit2620]

100%

[@willymaru3569]

@@WildBillJP if you disagree with what you see please enlighten us with your alternative moves!!!

[@WildBillJP]

Willy Maru sorry but you’re not going to be disarming an enraged and vicious attacker who is violently wielding a razor sharp knife during a brutal and all-out chaotic assault. Funny that this needs to be said

[@joshuaderstine6934]

The damage that grown men can inflict on each other is mind blowing. The only defense is to avoid a conflict. We are very vulnerable.

[@nikolaivolkov8660]

+Joshua derstine Pacifism won't help when your assailant is standing in front of you. Those of us who teach do not condone or encourage violence. I assure you it's quite the opposite. We teach what we do for if/when the time comes when you have to defend your life, or that of a loved one. We don't like hurting people, we do not enjoy it. In fact, a true judge of Martial skill would be to neutralize the threat without injury. I haven't gotten to that point yet, as most people haven't, so when it comes down to you or them; or worse, them or a loved one the choice is clear.

[@zactolan561]

Very Smart.

[@pet3r387]

Nikolai Volkov He means that if you can get away, then get away. Obviously if you have to engage in this then that’s your last resort and you are in deep shit.

[@mrpush2855]

@@pet3r387 Yes this is true. But what if you are confronted as you leave a bathroom stall, and as they trained in the video "in a corner". Does this mean that you will NEVER use a bathroom stall ever again as part of your avoidance? that you will ake sure you never end up in a space with only one exit? Or will you just stay home locked in your room? That is absurd. This is very practical advice here. Yes, the outlook is not a very good one if this happens to you. But are you going to try to fight for your life if this DOES happen to you? You can try to avoid the things I mentioned above your entire life and live in fear, or you can accept that if you find yourself STUCK IN THIS SITUATION, you have a chance to get out of it alive if you know what to do.

[@jimwagnerrbpp]

Fletch F., yes, a SWAT uniform. Haven't you ever heard of the phrase, "Train how you fight."

[@iSPELLinAMERICAN]

***** I also do not have real knife fighting experience, however, in training it is unnatural and unorthodox to turn your arms over. remember he is talking about split second reaction. your instincts are to just reach out palms and underarm facing down. also I just simulated a couple "hairy side down" techniques and it makes it hard to do a grab or follow on techniques.

[@iSPELLinAMERICAN]

***** didn't mean to respond with just critism, I do understand what you are saying and it was a good observation. it makes sense what you are saying. its just not natural I don't think

[@michaelmottonen3044]

***** I had an instructor that taught to block with the outside of the arm in this sort of situation, but the problem I found with it is that what you have to do following that block is typically too much of a complex movement. It was even challenging at half speed sometimes to follow that block practicing with knives or in any situation where you are trying to trap the arm. It will work if you get the timing and coordination right but I wouldn't count on it in the real thing

[@michaelmottonen3044]

If you have your own knife, though, a hard block with the hairy side immediately followed by a cut to the arm holding his knife is something I've seen a lot of and seemed to be a good option when I was practicing with wooden knives

[@tdrproductions]

i've heard this is a common technique in prison shiv fighting. The forearm can act as a shield and block vital organs as well as provide an opportunity to counter

[@CM-hr8ou]

Finally a video on knife attacks where the instructor lives in reality! You will be cut, in any knife attack you WILL get cut. I'm sick of videos on here where some wierdo only does choreographed slow motion knife disarms. That shit will get somebody killed. Gr8 vid anyways.

[@chrisbaldwin3148]

I'm a 30-year vet corrections officer who has spent a great deal of time developing a personal knife defense strategy. This video makes some good points about defending against the worst case scenario- when you are backed tightly into a corner with no space to move. One element that you didn't address is the attacker's ability to grab and anchor to you with his free (leveraging) arm to stab you. Also, I think better strategies are possible if you have a slight amount of space in which to move. Thank you, Sgt., for taking the time to make a thought-provoking video.

[@wiki2245]

I do Taekwondo and in reality we get taught what COULD happen and in what way the person MIGHT attack you. We do knife self defence quite a bit, it serious but its also fun to learn. This video also helped me a lot thanks! :)

[@quickpickle]

This is probably the most accurate knife defense videos out there.

[@winterramos4527]

I love this 1987 VHS quality.

[@trevorcarterva]

This is the most logical approach to defending knife attacks. I

[@Christian_Prepper]

*OPTION 3 & 4* 8:19 A third option to be aware of is he uses his other hand to pull a second weapon, & a fourth option is his friend(s) join in.

[@gurungpatrick373]

Because of you sir i have improved my defenses mentally and physically, Great great video thank you very much.

[@roberts7171]

This is the reality of a knife disarm. Bravo sir. I am so tired of people showing complex and fancy martial arts moves that will get you hurt bad in a real situation. Nice work.

[@jimwagnerrbpp]

Mark Cousin, I really appreciate your feedback on my video. I'm glad you are going to use my system. Be A Hard Target.

[@Paul-gb7jv]

best knife fighting video I have ever seen. The close take down ...... escape...... is so logical, so good. Thank you

[@jimwagnerrbpp]

Paul, I'm glad you think so. BE A HARD TARGET

[@carlosgibb]

This is the best video on knife defence I've ever watched! Simple and realistic at the same time. Thank you and greetings from Brazil!!

[@imstupid880]

Long story short: never go outside.

[@notapplicable4567]

Lol wat if the come inside?

[@jimwagnerrbpp]

dylanharold1, thank you for your testimonial. I thank God that you survived your knife attack, and I am happy to hear that you learned something from my Knife Disarm Rule for Police & Military. Continue to "Be A Hard Target."

[@1Blkkato]

I watch a lot of knife disarm videos [I'm an exp knife fighter] and I always see these useless videos on how to defend against a knife attack. Your video by far is the most realistic and best examples on how you should conduct yourself that I've seen. Keep up the good work.

[@gerryseymour]

+1Blkkato A good video, though the attack used at the beginning isn't realistic, at all. The attacker is snatching away, rather than driving in. It's more of a dodge than a stab. Still, I think if anything it makes the simulated attack harder to reach, so is a useful training tool. I'd just want to also work with a hard-driving stab, which probably means using a softer weapon to avoid actual injury.

[@IzzoWingChun]

Great video, Jim. All the best from Chicago. -Dominick Izzo

[@jimwagnerrbpp]

Thank you Dominick. Be A Hard Target.

[@BarterBales]

Great video, I appreciate how you incorporated "human instinct" in the movements.

[@jimwagnerrbpp]

17viris, you simulate a corner in training if you don't have a good solid corner to train in or a corner is too dangerous. For example, the typical traditional-based martial arts school may have mirrors in the corners. A SEAL team practicing on the deck of a ship in fresh air may not have a corner. There are many possible reasons, and thus my advice IF YOU DON'T HAVE A CORNER. I've trained Israeli soldiers on the sands of the MED and SpecOps teams in the jungles of South America, and you don't always have the training environment you'd like. I hope that explains it for you. Be A Hard Target.

[@iSPELLinAMERICAN]

Jim Wagner might I suggest coming to Camp Pendleton for a seminar of sorts. you said you are a southern cali police officer. camp Pendleton wouldn't be unrealistic. my area of camp has the marine recon and marsoc element too so it would be good group to learn.

[@edcuni]

Jim Wagner even it does nt look beautyfull that is the best way I have seen against a knife attack.all other videos with russian systema seem like slow ballet.a random knife attack from an angry criminall is very dificullt to deffent,although some heavy strike on pressure points could help somehow

[@annoyed707]

Not just room corners, but counters and tables.

[@kduffin33]

one of the best knife defense vids I've seen

[@jimwagnerrbpp]

Thanks kduffin33. I appreciate the feedback. Be A Hard Target.

[@justinquaid2610]

I've heard about you for many years Jim and I really enjoyed the video. I have been studying knife fighting for 30 years now which started with James Keating and then I continued my training with with the Pascua brothers from the Philippines and John McCurry from Long Beach. The only problem with knife fighters is that we are trained to take the limbs, hands, or fingers before we move into the torso or the head. I have tested knife disarms on martial artist with 40 to 50 years of martial arts experience from a knife fighters perspective on cutting the limbs before the body and everyone of the martial artist failed to get the disarm. Knife fighters think differently and we love when people try to disarm us because we are setting up the counter and then after that we go in for the kill.

[@zstick]

EXCELLENT video. It's hard for some martial arts masters to admit that they might not perform perfectly, which is (I think) why they avoid full-speed drills like this. They don't want to be seen missing a block or anything. We need more full-speed drills like this. All the slow stuff is SUPPOSED to be just a preparation for full-speed, but too many people get caught up in these sweet looking wrist-locks, arm locks, pressure points, disarms, etc. and they never take those moves into a full-speed test. Again, just excellent. Please keep these videos coming.

[@nikolaivolkov8660]

+Shrigis I can see that being true of many, but when I teach, I use half speed/full contact or half speed/half contact for training because it's better to get the basics perfect. Slower speeds allow you to more easily feel the proper form so you can maximize your energy transfer to target. Safety is a large part of it of course, but I find the slower speeds to make big difference in the retention of necessary skills for later development. Everyone needs a foundation from which to build.

[@zstick]

Nikolai Volkov So at what point do you transition from half-speed to full-speed? I'm all for building foundations through slow, methodical repetition to program muscle memory, but at some point you have to move on to full-speed training otherwise you're falling short of your goal, don't you agree?

[@nikolaivolkov8660]

Shrigis Absolutely. Full speed/full contact sparring is not only essential to reach the desired mindset that I'm trying to cultivate, but it also feeds into the stress drills that I use. It also doesn't hurt that some techniques require the momentum generated from full speed forms; but I reserve these classes for those that have proven to have self restraint. While I will always encourage those I teach to never limit themselves, I can't have inexperienced martial artists flailing around, much less with weapons lol The speed of training increases as their experience does, as you said. Anything less I feel is not doing the respective system justice.

[@zstick]

Nikolai Volkov Well said. My experience in martial arts isn't nearly as extensive as yours (based on your comments), but the same principles apply for almost any skill that has to do with muscle memory. Musical instruments, touch-typing, driving, gymnastics, firearms training, etc. all share the principle I was taught as a kid... slow makes fast. I just get frustrated when I see teachers who don't ever progress to the full-speed/full-contact drills at all because they're leaving their students woefully unprepared for anything but the kata needed for their next belt (or whatever that discipline uses to progress). Forms won't do you any good in a fight except as the basis for all the other training. Slow makes fast, but you have to eventually get to the fast! Anyway, thanks for clarifying your standpoint for me. I think we're on the same page.

[@nikolaivolkov8660]

Anytime brother. While here, I'll gripe a bit; "they're leaving their students woefully unprepared for anything but the kata needed for their next belt." That right there is a huge problem in the industry, and while it's likely simpler (Like greed) I think most Instructors *did* initially have the drive. The passion. But as sometimes happens with static or "set" drills/classes, it starts to seem more like a job than a career, and the passion dwindles out. Or if the monotonous routine doesn't bore the passion away, the often lose the time or desire to further their own progress. Either way, I think these are very common routes to the same destination: "The Next Belt," and that's never where I want to be.

[@joeboo1983]

Finally. A knife Defense system that might give a person a chance.

Truly superb and informative video. Loads of practical training ideas and you take into account both attacker unpredictability and the fact that 99% of real people are going to have to go with their fight or flight response in this situation. I guess the big take-home message is that being attacked with a blade is a real crappy situation to be in and that there's no substitute for training training training to maximise your chance of survival. Thank you for sharing this on KZbin.

[@TheJKDGuy]

One of the Best & Most Realistic videos on knife disarms out there worth watching ✔️

[@jimwagnerrbpp]

As a former JKD practitioner myself, I thank you for the comment. BE A HARD TARGET

[@SparkPproductions]

Great video. I've used a lot of your concepts and more in my self defense classes. Really appreciate the videos.

[@walterkiel552]

Now this is practical. Thank you for this video!

[@kendog1234]

wow this is way better than any other vid because basically he telling us wat to do after any strike on any part of ur body thats real smart

[@codereddefense]

Good tips... Thanks for the video.

[@vid4fun]

Thank you Jim for this very practical and realistic video guide.

[@troysmith4027]

This seems an excellent training strategy for someone who has already had years of traiing learning all the "fancy" martial arts moves. You would need hundreds of hours of practice with formal traps, grabs and takedowns using a compliant partner before you can move to this more dynamic training. My first martial arts instructor told me you have to learn the alphabet before learning to read.

[@jatbatman]

I disagree with your assertion of having to learn on a compliant opponent. To learn certain techniques maybe, but if you never test them at full force they'll do you no good. Are you going to ask an assailant to slow down their attack so you can do the steps you learned? It doesn't work that way. Lol Some of the best fighting training I've ever had was growing up with a little brother close in age. We fought hard even when it was for fun and we were running scenarios. Let me tell you getting a stick "knife" jabbed in you so hard it broke skin wasn't pleasant, but I learned not to let it happen again.

[@kagfre8943]

U need hundreds of hours training b4 that training becomes instinct. In the meantime your opponent forgives training and buys a knife. What do you do?

[@spartacus871]

Jim: You are an excellent trainer! When practicing with blades, please wear protective eyewear at all times! We want to see you in more videos minus an eye!

[@bae313]

I teach my students to take advantage of the reactionary gap by attacking a knife wielding threat before he starts to attack. This is advanced stuff that is more "martial artist" in nature, but is also still reality based, Boiled down, we grab and close simultaneously, then look to escape while delivering a nice parting gift if applicable. I also have a nice idea for a full contact training knife on my training knives video.

[@Aurumk1]

What happens if he is smart, and when you grab his knife hand he simply punches you with his open hand? Gotta keep your shoulder up.

[@scarfholdgraphicsmedia9501]

Generally, when someone has a weapon, their focus tends to stay on the weapon.

[@stephendefferari1559]

As he said, it's an unpredictable situation, and there could be variables where it would simply be a better idea to flee or retreat. What if it's a really big knife? Obviously closing the gap makes that a little more tricky then.

[@scarfholdgraphicsmedia9501]

@@stephendefferari1559 Fleeing and retreating... OK. So you run but you still have a dude on your tail with a knife. Retreating is wrong because you will take the full force of the blade. Deal with the attacker, not the weapon.

[@martinbrand6652]

Much appreciate your posting, sir. Nothing or nobody is perfect. I've just got to keep practice it.

[@shahriljamaludin2355]

the best video of knife defense sir. even though I'm not a law enforcement officer, I'm just a guy with a judo background also learn a lot from this.

[@Multiplexization]

moment. But just realize, if someone is reaching for his pocket (or back) on those moments it’s not for showing you his child’s pictures. I learned my lesson: in a discussion with me (which now I always try to avoid), no matter the level of violence up to that moment, if I see someone reaching for a pocket… that second shit is going his way. Jim, I’ve seen a couple of your videos, all I can say is: you are the very best of the best.

[@sylvesterstudmuffin]

I have been cut by knives fighters nine times, two extremely seriously, two millimetres away from ending my life. I survived, and gained control, using very similar techniques to those shown here. Fabio Taffy, Kali is a great art and masters of it are exceptional, but not everyone who attacks with a knife is a master. Knife against empty hand. Knife doesn't win everytime and I am living proof of it. Nice vid good advice.

[@wadomannen]

Thanks again for these videos Jim Wagner. Unfortunately, there are far too many unrealistic tips on self-defense against knife attacks. Often it is from people who never been in a dangerous situation.

[@jimwagnerrbpp]

You're welcome. Having been attacked, a few times in my career as a soldier and police officer by edged weapons, I put out information that I knew was realistic. Unfortunately, as you mentioned, there are too many people teaching "unrealistic tips." Thank you for your comment. BE A HARD TARGET Jim

[@shinobi7198]

Hi jim ive done aikido & been studying combat jujitsu & we do a lot of knife defence, and i must give you some props"what your saying is so true ,in real life a knife attack is a lot more faster' in my dojo although its hard &fast 'everything is still pulled to some extent..

[@jwgoon]

Here in Singapore, we just had a recent case of a National Parks officer getting badly injured by a 61 year old knife wielding assailant. It was shocking to read how an elderly man with a knife could inflict that much damage to a younger man who didn't expect such a violent encounter (and all because the officer told him that he was illegally cutting grass and wasn't wearing a face mask due to the covid-19 pandemic requirements). Thankfully the officer survived. Your video is really great and informative on what knife attacks are like and how to survive one. Cheers.

[@jimwagnerrbpp]

Thank you for this news report. Anyone who can hold a knife, or cut food, no matter what age, can be deadly. BE A HARD TARGET

[@danahaham]

Yess Finally I found someone who brings quality realistic information from the field and not just slow movements that will lead to your death..I will keep follow your information you are great! greetings from Israel.

[@omgmrtea]

My Martial Arts teacher studied with Jim and then taught us his knife course - one of the best lessens i ever had. Anyone interested should learn it, it is by far the most realistic and gives you a decent chance of survival if trained well.

[@jimwagnerrbpp]

omgmrtea, thank you for your comment. I'm glad that my student, your teacher, passed on the KNIFE SURVIVAL techniques and tactics that I taught to you. BE A HARD TARGET Jim Wagner (in the martial arts community, your "Grand Master")

[@alexbianco2510]

Great training method! I will have to incorporate this into my training

[@jimwagnerrbpp]

Alex Bianco, that is good to hear. Keep it real. Be A Hard Target.

[@forbeswinthrop153]

Jim, Thanks for the material. How sure are you of your advice to flee if you get the knifeman down? I agree if someone has no ground skills that to flee makes sense. But if someone has decent ground skills, it wouldn't make sense to me to give up a dominant position (side mount or mount) to then flee and thereby give the knifeman an opportunity to recounter by chasing you with the knife.

[@kevintaylor1162]

Great video, finally someone who tells the truth about what will really happen.

[@sifugreg6073]

Very nice work Mr Wagner I teach knife take aways but your right, if your going against someone that knows how to use a knife it's very hard to catch it I would like to practice and even teach some of the moves you are teaching thank you for posting the video

[@jimwagnerrbpp]

Sifu Greg, thank you for your comment, and I'm glad that you are trying out my techniques and training methods. Be A Hard Target.

[@aprilrosesmile3837]

Thank you for sharing and teaching self defense I really need this...

[@nickfoot3968]

Hi Jim was great training with you in the UK last year

[@williambarbahen6974]

I see tons of armbars to finish u may not because excessive force but they and kelmoras are there to disable the arm great video!

[@mikeyo1449]

First instinct. Then training. Very practical. I have much more confidence in my survival instincts, than some choreographed scenario.

[@jimwagnerrbpp]

Thanks for your comment. Stay safe and BE A HARD TARGET

[@jimwagnerrbpp]

Victor Weis, if the attacker changes hands or has two knives, which can happen, I address this in my Knife Survival and Knife Expert seminars. However, I will cover these two situations in the future with a new video. Great comment. Be A Hard Target.

[@paulruprai1274]

Makes a lot of sense Jim. Martial arts training can be a BIG hazard against knives. I was messing around with my sister and she ended up sticking the knife through my hand and she has no experience with knives ... You are better to run and find a way out or put something between you and the knife ...preferably shield like or chair or stick or do what you do ...Love the advice you give ..

[@enriquelucero7053]

Thank you so much sir for this video...I learned something and I will based my future trainings from this.

[@KyranSparda]

This video comes off as much more legit than any of those knife defense videos on youtube...

[@Mr.Coldfire421]

Your tutorial is more realistic than anything I saw in youtube. In a real fight you cannot predict what will happen most of the time your body automatically response base on instinct and you don't have time to remember each stupid scripted steps that some stupid guy told you to do. I agreed that the best thing you can do is block the knife as fast as you can and not the steps that your not comfortable with.(such as those fancy movement like in a kung-fu movie). Thanks for your tutorial.

[@HelloKevinWhite]

Excellent overview.

[@nazagato]

Jim Wagner, thanks for sharing this knowledge to all. I'm a police former from Argentina, and can say that all things views in this video, are really true! An attack with a knife is always brutal and unpredictable!!!

[@jimwagnerrbpp]

Thank you for taking the time to write your comment. BE A HARD TARGET

[@christalicable]

This is all based on original FMA, Filipino Martial Arts, Aramis/Kali. It's incredible but completely understandable why the concept has taken off all over the world.

[@ajturzak]

Ever since I watched this video, I train all the time for this type of stuff. I have a rubber knife and when my buddy comes over we spar and practice this technique for at least a couple hours every week. Thank you Jim Wagner.

[@jimwagnerrbpp]

AJ Turzak, I am happy to hear that you are testing out the techniques. That's the only way to learn what works and what does not. Be A Hard Target.

[@AlphaDad]

What I really like about the grab and hold onto the arm is how close the face is to the assailant. If you can't take him down, a bite to the arm or chest or even neck will end the attack or at least take the attackers will to continue.

[@demonicjedi]

Great video, you should allways expect to get cut in a knife fight but you have to try and run or grab and control if you cant

[@danielyoung633]

I pulled off a textbook disarm 15 years ago and I still got cut, he's bang on.

[@markgraham4732]

Very good...

[@saymyname3097]

Thank you Jim and Jeff, as a civilian this sounds good as a last resort. It's better to spend time on honing the reflexes to, grab, closely secure the arm and takedowns. Drills until it's in the muscle memory. Scary but practical. Thanks.

[@jimwagnerrbpp]

You're welcome. That's right, just keep the training realistic. BE A HARD TARGET

[@christopherchambers3976]

Finally, a realistic video from someone with actual real world experience in using the tactics they're talking about. Great video!

[@jimwagnerrbpp]

Chris Chambers, thank you for your comment. Be A Hard Target.

[@stefanbornhoft2258]

Perfectly right. Thank you

[@samriding6094]

Thanks a million for this, the other videos on knife disarming are far from legitimate. It's just like you said, there's no time for the fancy moves in real life.

[@amindinfullbigc3863]

Very good video. As for dropping the mp5. If you've got time to drop it. You may have time to use it as a weapon of defense. Pugo style barrel to the skull. Etc. like you said. EVERY attack is different. I subscribed and want to train people. I learned street survival skills by growing up in Southside w/s. Use whatever is available to save your life.

[@ElseMush]

I like this material a lot, but I think it's worth saying that the traditional martial arts have their place alongside this. The 'attack me with a dagnal cut' type of training drills you in the movements that you can make. Jim has clearly had this kind of training and it shows in the way he moves. It's precisely because you don't have time to think that you need to have these movements as second nature. Then do your reality training to make it work.

[@ParkourEh]

What you said about compliant, training partners "posing" during training is true and I agree. With that being said, I'm not sure I understand the criticism against specific angles and the necessity of using full force only in training (at least, that's what I understand from the video). Training with predefined angles and at a slower pace is for developing the proper movements for muscle memory. There are okay ways of controlling a limb, and there are better ways. Anything can happen in the real encounter and improvising is a highly important, but training should be about what to do "best". i.e. it's for turning less effective instincts into educated reflexes. Full-force has its place as the trainees are decently competent with the techniques at a slower pace.

[@bae313]

Good points, but what has taken modern karate out of the reality training realm is the unrealistic search for perfection. You just aren't gonna get it in a real fight unless one man grossly outclasses the other. You have to focus on what is gonna happen when "Murphy" shows up. That being said, you must also realize that this type of training is more "seminar" in nature. It focuses on the down and dirty minimum requirements. If you have a more dedicated student then you can spend more time spoon feeding the basics and build to the full contact levels. That is how my channel's free "Slasher Course" trains the student to knife fight.

[@Toophless1]

Excellent video. Thanks guy

[@jimwagnerrbpp]

basketgoal321, if you don't have the stamina to run away then you had better "stop" the attacker somehow, and as Tarquin Ogilvie stated, "oblique kick, headbutt, knee stomp, etc." Be A Hard Target.

[@F0ndlzDaKl0wn]

Might be useful to have or quickly have an idea of an awareness of immediate surroundings, especially if you need to use lethal projectile force, watch your assailants background for friendlies. also don't want to escape the knife attack and jump back into oncoming traffic etc. people, obstacles, and if enough time , have an idea where you want to escape effectively. I know time and space seems to alter especially in real life situations , so we do the best we can. i have also discovered a little trick while at stand up or (otherwise) position. just before a throw etc., startle him by slight head butt, yell, spit etc. can disorient the assailant. trick , lie or otherwise to survive. also, before a technique, move while in mid sentence or question or other distraction. pretend to comply, act scared , ask a question, telle'm off, whatever works.

[@bajuszpal172]

Dear sgt. Wagner, I have read in a czech fighter magazine your idea on self defence: Make distance your ally. An advice that I really appreciate. Then, why have not you integrated into your three step sequences termed as : Grab -Close and Take-down? In my experience, age 62, I learned that Defence is mostly about DISTANCE. It gives anyone : either the chance to flee, or use some makeshift weapons (scarf, handbag, or laptop and fend off/or at least divert the blade. With full respect, I have never been a law enforcement officer, let me state that applying the Three- step Sequence, requires abilities at YOUR level of experience, OTHERS not necessarily may have. Best wishes. Pavol

[@defkai]

this is the real stuff indeed, i've been in afghanistan and some other countries, and let me tell you that all the fancy techniques you learn in all your traditonal martial arts dont work in real life, people are blinded by movie's and like to get some confidence out of it,then when the shit hits the fan it doesn't work..this is realistic and works.. good too see your still teaching jim, ive followed some of your seminars in holland like6-8 years ago and its still one the best and most realistic i've trained so far! keep up the good work! PM me if you are ever in holland again i might be able to set something up at my unit!

[@jimwagnerrbpp]

defkai, thank you for the comment. I'm glad the techniques and training methods have helped you, and support your warrior mentality. I should be in Holland in September or in 2015. Be A Hard Target.

[@jimwagnerrbpp]

John Goff, that is good to hear. It is great that you are testing everything to see if it will really work or not. Be A Hard Target.

[@TheBorderlineBlues]

I really enjoy your reality based training. Thanks for all the videos.

[@pwinn338]

Learn a lot from your video thanks. Its correct in what you said but two things I would like to add firstly the attacker has two arms so he would use his empty hand to distract you. Secondly, if you move to his blind side then you can do all what you said without getting caught. Yes close in but stay out on the blind side if you can so you can get out and escape! Very realistic training though. No right or wrong way to defense against a knife. I likei what you point about knife disarm :)

[@smh9902]

Hey Jim, I've known about the "traditional" martial arts thing as being unrealistic for a while now. I'm enlisted in the SDF of Missouri (Missouri State Guard) and they have trained me to basic MACP Level 2 combatant but I want something a lot more in depth and realistic for the modern world. I want to diversify my close quarters and hand to hand training on my private time. Do you have any recommendations for the St. Louis and Missouri Area in general?

[@EchoesOfSerenity]

Hello Jim, I have a question, how to take down a person with an armed knife pointing at your friend or just someone else that you just happen to see when you exit a building or mall and you just see someone pointing a knife at someone and you see the person in great danger? Should I get involved? If so, how to disarm him from behind? Side? Pls advise thank you.

[@vanityandpride82]

+Gabe L I got the very same question in mind! Jim please answer us soon!

[@MrOdsplut]

This is the only realistic knife defence I've ever seen.

[@jimwagnerrbpp]

THANK YOU GAMER_420 FOR THE POSITIVE FEEDBACK. Oh, and by the way, I worked for Blizzard Entertainment Global Security for several months to get their security team back on track. It was a really cool place to work at in Irvine, California. BE A HARD TARGET.

[@Edsel0201]

4:33 This is how a knife thrust should be delivered in training! This tall guy is the ideal partner for whoever would want to learn how to effectively defend himself from a knife attack.

[@trevspeaks3]

Having someone come at you from predetermined angles is more about seeing it happen so often that when it happens you Dont have to see it so much rather just instinctively react . muscle memory. Not sure why u can't see how that helps. I took Kali for a few years. What I've learned in just over a decade of training kali has helped me as a bouncer in club fights evolving knives broken bottles sticks and or chair legs. I was also in a street fight resulting from an idiot with road rage recently. His wife gave him a pocket knife. Took that from him with ease. My traditional training worked for me.

[@Kayakwinds]

Any concerns about what the knife holder might be doing with his opposite hand while you are focused on his right hand. Could there be a blade in that hand? What if he opens with a hard punch with the left. Any concerns about a leg sweep? Just thinking out loud. From your opponent's performance, one can only infer that you are far and away quicker than he is--or he is intentionally going at 3/4 speed. Any way I liked you video; nicely down. Stay safe, my friend.

[@ugolema]

Defending against a knife attack in these ways will earn you a place in an Intensive Therapy Dept for sure, in the best case scenario...

[@kareemhabib5421]

Thank you sir for saving more lives

[@jimwagnerrbpp]

You're welcome Kareem. BE A HARD TARGET

[@josuedepaz4282]

Fantastic video, it deserves more views.