Tip Of The Spear - Hand Fighting Fundamentals

Hand fighting and grip fighting are essential for preventing an opponent's attacks, which originate from their hands, regardless of the position. The first line of defense is to intercept the opponent's hands, using a stance that keeps their hands from finding their way through. This is likened to sticky hands, where each point of contact with the opponent acts as a sensor to feel their weight and movement, allowing for effective blocking and maintaining contact.

The defensive strategy follows the acronym IBI: Intercept, Break, and Inside control. If the opponent penetrates the first layer of defense and establishes a grip, the next step is to break it. The best chance to break a grip is as it's being made or just after. If the grip has settled, it's necessary to make a grip that mitigates its control, which may involve inside control or other variations depending on the situation.

When breaking a collar grip, which is typically the opponent's power hand, it's crucial to use two hands and choose a grip-breaking method that connects to the next desired position. The break should be executed by driving the opponent's grip down the lapel while using the legs and hips to drive the shoulders back, creating a snapping motion. The grip can be directed down the lapel or back at the angle of the opponent's shoulder to jam them up. It's important to avoid extending and exposing the inside space of the body.

If the grip doesn't break on the first attempt, a double clutch or tap-tap method can be used to exploit the moment when the opponent reflexively re-grips. This technique catches the grip as it softens before hardening again. After breaking the grip, it's essential to maintain control and use it as the start of a gripping sequence.

If the opponent also has a grip on the other arm, the priority is to break the collar grip first. However, if the opponent's grip on the wrist is strong enough to prevent assistance from the other arm, the wrist grip must be broken first. Techniques for breaking the wrist grip include going pinky over and twisting out, reaching towards the opponent to create leverage, palm striking the grip off, or if unable to start, going thumb under.

The choice of grip-breaking technique should be based on personal strength and the next move in the sequence. The goal is to regain control of one's weight and posture, setting up for the next attack or defensive maneuver.