This article is for informational purposes and is not intended to replace in-person instruction with a qualified instructor.
We always encourage practicing in a distraction-free location with firearms that have been rendered safe.
Outside of military conflict, it is an indisputable fact that most violent encounters unfold inside of conversational distance.
Close-quarters self-defense requires precision and control, especially when an attacker is within arm’s reach. Training in confined spaces sharpens reflexes and awareness.
When a violent adversary has invaded your personal space, there is precious little time to react.
Even more disturbing was the fact that almost half the time the aggressor was close enough to touch.
Slowly, things began to improve as training doctrine began to address these concerns.
In a self-defense scenario, distance is a luxury you might not have. Train to respond quickly to an unexpected threat.
Sadly, some people still havent gotten the message.
Often, this pattern repeats itself.
We can do better.
Close-range self-defense means being ready for the unexpected. Keeping the firearm in “tight” can have many benefits in a close-quarters conflict.
This prevents an adversary from deflecting your gun off target or succeeding in a disarm attempt.
This creates a cage to protect you from attack by a contact weapon to those critical areas.
No big deal, but you knew something was going on.
An extremely close range shot against an attacker can be an absolute necessity for surviving a deadly attack.
This can be problematic during winter weather where heavy coats are often worn.
Aggressive Movement
A somewhat controversial technique is something called shove and shoot or a step-back technique.
The reason I say it is controversial is simply because some people dont understand the software.
Effective self-defense relies on situational awareness and the ability to act decisively, even in the smallest spaces. Training that simulates real-life scenarios can increase your preparedness.
Take a big step back, and if needed draw the gun to eye level and assess the situation.
Hopefully, the bad guy has reconsidered his intentions.
If not, you are in a better position to respond with superior force.
The shove and shoot technique can create space in a close encounter. Pushing the attacker back helps the defender secure a safe angle for response.
An alternative is driving forward.
As you draw the gun, hold it tight to the body and angle the muzzle down.
Push forward aggressively, which will take your adversary off balance.
A contact shot might be necessary. However, if the slide goes out of battery from contact with an attacker, that contact shot can fail. The Hellcat’s design helps prevent this from happening.
If necessary, fire to stop the attack.
But what if that is outside the realm of possibility?
However, you could experience a stoppage if your hand interferes with the function of the slide.
Self-defense at close range requires quick, calculated movements. Practicing in controlled environments builds confidence and capability for real encounters.
Create distance, erase the stoppage, and fire again if necessary.
What if any weapons do you see?
If there are no weapons, are you justified in shooting?
What does the environment look like?
Is there a possibility that others may join in the fight?
Everyone who takes up the pistol for personal defense needs to be familiar with a few effective empty-hand tactics.
Ask yourself the big question: Are the elements of ability, opportunity and jeopardy present?
Go to forum thread
HellcatSeries
