How to Defend Against a Knife Attack: Best Knife Self Defense Training

Published on July 13, 2021
Duration: 3:25

This video demonstrates a common military-taught technique for defending against a sudden knife attack. Instructor Dan Marcou, a law enforcement and use-of-force expert, details a peripheral defense involving a sidestep, immediate wrist control, and a 180-degree power pivot to take the attacker down forcefully. The technique aims to disarm the attacker and end the threat quickly.

Quick Summary

Learn a common military-taught technique for defending against knife attacks from instructor Dan Marcou. The peripheral defense involves a sidestep, immediate wrist control, and a 180-degree power pivot to take the attacker down forcefully, aiming to disarm and end the threat quickly.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Knife Defense Technique
  2. 00:05Instructor Dan Marcou Introduction
  3. 00:29Peripheral Defense with Knife Explained
  4. 00:53The Power Pivot Technique
  5. 01:14Securing the Wrist Grip
  6. 01:28Taking Down the Attacker
  7. 01:52Releasing the Knife Instinctively
  8. 02:07Recap of Peripheral Defense
  9. 02:24Final Takedown Motion
  10. 02:48Gun Giveaway Announcement
  11. 02:59USCCA Director Kevin Michalowski

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the peripheral defense technique for knife attacks?

The peripheral defense involves a quick sidestep to evade the knife's initial thrust, followed by immediately securing the attacker's wrist with a thumb-to-thumb grip. This sets up a 180-degree power pivot to control the attacker.

How does the power pivot work in knife defense?

The power pivot is a 180-degree rotation executed after securing the attacker's wrist. It allows the defender to move under the attacker's arm, gain leverage, and transition into a takedown maneuver.

What is the goal of the final takedown in this knife defense technique?

The final takedown aims to drive the attacker down forcefully, using an elbow-to-shoulder position. This action is designed to make the attacker release the knife instinctively and end the assault.

Who teaches this knife defense technique?

This specific knife defense technique is taught by Dan Marcou, who is identified as a law enforcement and use-of-force instructor, also known as Lieutenant Dan.

More Self Defense Videos You Might Like

More from USCCA

View all →