Knife Defense Program
Knife Defense: Control, Counter, Survive.
Our approach to edged weapon defense prioritizes depth of knowledge over an accumulation of
techniques. We focus on gross motor skills, ensuring techniques are accessible under the extreme
stress of a real confrontation. Relying on fine or complex motor skills in such situations is unrealistic
and dangerous.
In any reality-based weapons defense program, the primary goal is escape—not intricate disarms or
flashy counters. Many so-called knife defense systems pay lip service to avoidance and escape but
spend most of their time on highly impractical techniques.
At Red Zone, escape is not an afterthought—it’s the entire focus. Every technique and training method
is designed to create an opportunity for escape at the earliest moment. However, if escape is not
immediately possible, we use hands-on skills to minimize damage and gain control.
Core Methodology
Weapon Control – The primary objective when going hands-on is to control the weapon bearing
limb. The approach varies depending on the type of attack, but securing the weapon
arm is essential.
Dominant Control Positions – Once control is established, we move into a dominant position
that allows for effective counterattacks. Some key positions include:
o The Baseball Bat Grip
o The Modified 2-on-1
o Side Bodylock (split seatbelt)
Positional Transitions – Much like Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, these control positions allow for
adaptability, ensuring you can maintain control, strike, and neutralize threats as the situation
evolves.
Ending the Confrontation – Once a control position is secured, we focus on attacking the
attacker and ending the threat as efficiently as possible.
Beyond Physical Techniques
In addition to physical skills, the Red Zone program dispels common myths about knife defense,
ensuring students understand the realities of blade encounters. We also incorporate force-on-force
training and tactics for handling static threats (e.g., a knife to the throat).
The Red Zone Knife Defense program has been widely recognized and adopted by law enforcement
and military units worldwide. Our two instructional DVDs have sold internationally, receiving
tremendous feedback from professionals and civilians alike. We continue to refine and update our
program, offering insights and supplemental training materials to enhance learning.
Knife Defense Program
Digital Downloads & Kindle Books
Sharpen your skills and stay prepared with our expert-driven knife defense guides. Whether you prefer digital downloads or Kindle books, get the knowledge you need to defend yourself anytime, anywhere.
Seminars
Gain real-world skills to defend against blade attacks. Join a Red Zone Knife Defense Seminar and train for survival.
“In my 23 years of law enforcement, I must say your classes offer some of the most realistic methods of defensive tactics training I have experienced. I must say your classes offer some of the most realistic techniques and methods of defensive tactics training I have experienced. Your ability to teach the skills and concepts of self preservation training is exemplary and I will highly recommend your unique training to my peers.”