How to Disarm Someone With a Knife

You don't necessarily have to be strong or skilled in martial arts to disarm a knife attacker.

We've all seen it in the movies. The crazy, violent criminal attacking the unsuspecting innocent person with a knife. Somehow, adrenaline kicks in along with perhaps a few self-defense skills that he has forgotten, and the victim suddenly disarms his attacker with a few swift moves. The problem with most of these scenes, however, is that these moves aren't usually realistic or helpful for that matter. Learn how to disarm a knife attacker with a few proven self-defense tactics.

Instructions

1. Keep yourself from getting cut by the attacker. This may sound obvious, but it is important to keep that in mind throughout the attack as it will keep you motivated to keep yourself safe. If you do get cut, don't let it disrupt your concentration. Focus on the fight rather than the cut.

2. Grab the hand of the attacker that is holding the knife. Do not grab the blade. This will help you control where the knife is headed.

3. Thrust your body weight into the knife holder's hand, pushing it downward toward the ground.

4. Hold your control firmly over his hand and wrist, keeping it on the ground.

5. Bite the attacker's arm sharply. This may cause the attacker to loosen his grip on the knife. If that doesn't quite work, drive the back of your head into his face, which will disorient him.

References

• Defend University: What About Disarming Tactics?
• Lotus Martial Arts: Gun and Knife Disarming