(1997) House Clearing and Cornering Tactics & Techniques Ken Hackathorn and Bill Wilson

Published on August 20, 2013
Duration: 82:08

This comprehensive guide from Ken Hackathorn and Bill Wilson details essential house clearing and cornering techniques for self-defense scenarios. It emphasizes prioritizing safety, proper room entry using the 'pieing' method, and understanding target indicators. The video also includes crucial ballistics demonstrations showing the limited stopping power of interior walls and the effectiveness of concrete blocks as cover.

Quick Summary

When clearing a room, avoid the 'Fatal Funnel' (doorway) and use the 'pieing' technique to scan incrementally. Maintain weapon control close to your body, watch for target indicators like reflections and shadows, and remember interior walls offer concealment, not cover from gunfire.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Home Invasion Scenarios
  2. 02:02Initial Response: Call 9-1-1 & Secure Yourself
  3. 03:01Meet the Experts: Ken Hackathorn & Bill Wilson
  4. 04:38The Dangers of Solo House Clearing
  5. 06:06When to Call Police vs. Self-Response
  6. 08:35Searching Your Home: Basic Principles
  7. 10:27Mental Conditioning for Stressful Situations
  8. 11:07Intruder Psychology: Desire to Escape
  9. 12:04Clearing Your House with a Firearm: Dangers
  10. 13:51Doorways: The Fatal Funnel
  11. 16:52Piecemeal Search: Cutting the Pie
  12. 20:22Approaching Doors: Hinges and Opening Direction
  13. 21:11Weapon Retention When Opening Doors
  14. 23:59Moving into the Room: Exiting the Fatal Funnel
  15. 26:06The Three Eye Principle
  16. 26:50Avoiding Corners and Maintaining Distance
  17. 29:30Typical Interior Door Approaches
  18. 31:55Body Checking the Door Technique
  19. 33:56Target Indicators: Visual Cues
  20. 38:32Target Indicators: Audio Cues
  21. 40:15Using Distractions for Entry
  22. 42:46Full House Clearing Scenario Demonstration
  23. 49:40Cover vs. Concealment Explained
  24. 51:13Ballistics Test: Interior Walls
  25. 58:28Ballistics Test: Concrete Blocks
  26. 61:28Corner Drill: Single Shots vs. Double Taps

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the 'Fatal Funnel' in house clearing?

The 'Fatal Funnel' refers to the doorway or entry point of a room or structure. It's a critical danger zone because it's the most likely place an intruder will expect a threat to emerge from, making it a prime target area.

How should one approach a doorway when clearing a room?

Avoid standing directly in the doorway. Instead, 'pie' the room by opening the door and scanning small sections incrementally. Position yourself to maximize your view and move quickly out of the Fatal Funnel to the side of the doorway.

What are target indicators to watch for during house clearing?

Be aware of visual indicators like reflections, shadows, or parts of a person (feet, elbows, weapon muzzles) sticking out from cover. Audio indicators like shuffling feet or unusual noises can also signal an intruder's presence.

Do interior walls provide adequate cover from gunfire?

No, standard interior walls typically offer only concealment, not cover. Bullets from common handgun calibers can penetrate drywall and studs, posing a significant risk to anyone on the other side of the wall.

What is the 'three-eye principle' in firearms use?

The 'three-eye principle' means your two physical eyes and the muzzle of your firearm should all be focused on the threat area. This ensures your weapon is always aligned with your line of sight for immediate engagement.

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