A Warrior Concepts Book

KUBOTAN!Self-Defense Keychain

Learn to Use This Simple Weapon to Increase the Powerof Your Self-Defense Techniques Right Now!

By

Jeffrey M. Miller, ShidoshiFounder & Director

Warrior Concepts InternationalSelf-Protection & Personal Development

http://www.warrior-concepts-online.com

Copyright (C) 2006 by Jeffrey M. Miller and Warrior Concepts International.All Rights Reserved

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. Introduction 1

2. What IS a Kubotan 5

3. History & Background 12

4. Self-Defense Principles You Must Remember 18

5. Legal Concerns 24

6. Basic Striking Techniques 26

7. Basic Grappling and Compliance Techniques 33

8. Where Do You Go From Here? 38

9. About the Author 42

A Special Thank You...

Of course, no work would be complete without a special note to recognize some of those whowere instrumental in its creation. In that light, I would like to thank Sheree Frey and Eric White,who donated their time to pose for the instructional photographs.

And, thanks also goes to all of my students and clients, both local and international, who havegiven me the greatest gifts of all...

...trust, loyalty, and support.

And to all of the hundreds of lives that have touched mine... Thank You All!

If this work saves but one life, it will have fulfilled my purpose.

FOR THE LAWYERS...This publication, in its entirety is an original work and protected under International CopyrightLaws. (C) 2006. All Rights Reserved by Jeffrey M. Miller and Warrior Concepts International.Copying, reproduction, storage, or transmission of any kind or in any format, known or yet to becreated, is strictly prohibited without the expressed written consent of the author and copyrightholders.

BAD GUY STATEMENT...Please note that I believe that well over 90 percent of my clients and students are honest, loyal,people who respect the property of others. However, I have to put this here for the other 10%who might think that the rules dont apply to them. So, to all of you bad guys (and girls) outthere who either dont understand or dont care about the above statement...

TAKE NOTE!

I have worked long and hard to study, learn, test, perfect, and communicate the informationcontained in this program. I have gone to great lengths to develop it in the form presented.And, I regularly check on my work to see who is offering it to the world. For those of you whofeel the need to steal the works of others (copying and distributing to others whether for a fee tostrangers or in the form of a gift to your friends who dont like to pay for things of value ISstealing), know this...

... If, either in the course of my routine checking on and off the internet or in the event thatsomeone else brings to my attention that you have violated my rights in regards to this work, Iwill promptly contact my attorney and have him hunt you down and bring suit against you.Thats what I pay him for and he is VERY good at it.

In short...

THIS program and others like it are how I support myself and my family in the world. It is alsohow I give back to the world by helping others with my knowledge and skills. If you take thataway from me, I will defend myself with every tool that I have. Thats what I do and I am VERYgood at it.

Introduction

Imagine, if you will...

A woman walking across a dark parking lot late at night. The lot, apparently occupied onlyby the vehicles parked there and the occasional cat hunting for an evening snack.

Then, as if from out of nowhere, she feels the hard, meaty arm slam into her throat from thefront. While her mind races to determine exactly whats happening, she becomes more and moreaware that she is not in control - her world has just changed forever.

The woman feels her muscles contract and, though she tries to move, is aware that much ofher own body wont respond to her brains commands. As the adrenaline and other chemicalsflood her blood stream in natural response to danger, she is overcome by a multitude of feelingsand sensations that she has, quite literally, never experienced before.

As the initial shock response and wave of panic begins to ebb, she finds herself becomingaware of the sensation of her assailants body behind her and the fact that his arm is coming fromover her right shoulder. She can now hear his hot, rasping breath in her ear and perhaps the factthat he is saying something to her; though shes not quite sure what it is.

Since shes taken a few self-defense classes, she remembers learning how to get out of thistype of attack and reaches up to grab and pull his arm away from her neck. What she findsthough, is that she cannot even begin to budge it in the least.

Wait a minute, she thinks in a moment of clarity, this isnt right.

This isnt right!

It always worked in class. This guys holding me too tight! No one ever holds THISTIGHT!

She feels the next wave of panic start to grip her. Not because she is being attacked but...

...because she realizes that her defense doesnt work.

Why? Whats going on?!

Its supposed to work! He said it would wo....

As the darkness of unconsciousness overtakes her, she is left with the feeling of a warmblanket that is being pulled over someone who will sleep for a long while.

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***********************************************

The preceding story, believe it or not, happens every single day in our country and aroundthe world. To be certain, the details are different. Perhaps the victim...

...is a man - not a woman...

...never actually trained with anyone and just had their own assumptions...

...was attacked differently, but...

...the results are always the same.

Or, are they?

What if...

AN ALTERNATE ENDING

What if the woman in our story has properly prepared herself for the eventuality of beingattacked...

1. From behind2. By a man who is two and a half times stronger than she will ever be3. When the unarmed tactics shes learned - fail

What if the story ends like this...

... she remembers learning how to get out of this type of attack and [automatically] reachesup to grab and pull his arm away from her neck. What she finds though, is that she cannot evenbegin to budge it in the least.

Taking the short stick-like key ring that she habitually carries in her hand when there mightbe a need, she begins delivering a barrage of stabbing and grinding attacks to her assailantsbody. As she feels his grip loosen, she expands her counter-attack to include stamping heelkicks to his instep, smashing headbutt strikes to his face behind her head, and maybe even awell-placed elbow or two to his ribcage.

She finds herself free as her assailant is sent reeling from the painful blows. She stands therein her defensive position, watching to see what his next move will be, her eyes burning with rageand indignation. Her very presence communicates to her would-be attacker that, what he isfeeling right now is the nicest thing that he will feel if he tries to touch her again!

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Seeing what was supposed to be his victim standing before him, more than prepared to domore than he has already experienced, the assailants intentions change. What began as adefensive, anger response to his own pain and a desire for retaliation, has now, with therealization that his victim is no-such-thing, he decides that his own safety is more important thanwhat he wanted from this particular target. And besides...

...he will be able to find another, easier, victim...

...soon enough.

***************************************

This story also illustrates a common occurrence. It describes, in one form, what happens towould-be assailants every day, who choose the wrong target and are left with the realization thatnot everyone will play the role of the victim.

This book then, is a resource for those who have decided that, should something ever happen,that they choose the second story to be theirs. It is designed to stand alone as a primer forlearning the basics of using the self-defense keychain but, it also fits into the larger scheme of anoverall self-defense strategy - a strategy that says that...

... The more options you have, the greater your chances for success.

WHAT YOU WILL LEARN

This book was not written to be a comprehensive training course in the use of a particularweapon. This is so for two reasons.

1. No weapon can take the place of a sound self-defense training program and plan, and...2. The weapon well be discussing - the Kubotan or self-defense keychain, was designed to

augment, or provide additional power and effectiveness, to unarmed self-defense techniques andtactics.

Do you have to be a trained martial artist to defend yourself with this or any other weapon?

No. Of course not.

But, remember - there is a huge difference between an effective self-defense strategy basedon knowing what to do to increase your ability to escape with the least amount ofwear-and-tear, and...

...the dependence on luck or the fact that youre carrying a self-defense weapon.

Both can be effective. However,...

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...which one do you want to bet your life on?

And, in the long run...

...your weapon, regardless of whether its a handgun, knife, or even the weapon were aboutto discuss, is only as good as you are!

This book will introduce you to the self-defense keychain as a practical tool to aid you indefending yourself should that ever be necessary. It begins with a basic description of theweapon and its overall strengths and weaknesses. It also presents a brief history andbackground of the weapons development all the way back to the days of the Japanese Samuraiwarriors and its connection to fighting with the knife.

It will be important, before we move on to the sections that give some examples for usingthis weapon, to examine two often overlooked areas of concern. First, we will need to reviewsome general self-defense principles that you must keep in mind when training with and usingthe weapon. And, we must visit the subject of how the law can and often does effect our abilityto own, possess or use this weapon in our own defense.

Keep in mind that this is an open-ended resource. That will be readily evident in thepresentation of the material - its written with developing a proper foundation in mind rather thantrying to cover everything youll ever need to know. It is also apparent with the inclusion of afinal chapter titled: Where Do You Go From Here?

It is my hope that the insights and perspectives presented in these pages will allow you to beeven more secure in your life. I know that the beginner will find a new world opening up tothem as they discover another tool for insuring their safety and security in an often brutal world.I also know that intermediate and advanced students and practitioners will find nuggets ofinformation and details that will make them even better at being able to handle dangeroussituations.

As always, if this work in instrumental in saving the life of just one person, it will haveserved its purpose. So...

...lets begin!

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What IS a Kubotan

If you do a search on the internet, there seems to be no end to what has been written aboutthis simple, yet powerful weapon. There seems to be no small supply of writers who have useddramatic titles to add to the impact of an otherwise so-so article on the subject.

Fistful of Dynamite, Rod of Pain, and many others lead the way as writers share theirown knowledge and insight into the weapon. Unfortunately, far too many of these articles servelittle to no real purpose in helping you to actually create results. And, they range in scope fromthe generalized what it is variety, to the overly bloated tome that includes what seems to beevery single detail and supposition that the author wishes to impress you with.

Believe me, I have read a lot of whats available, and while there are certainly valuableresources from real experts, they are buried in a cyber-world of practically worthless chatter.While you can feel free to recreate my extensive research on the subject, Ive brought it alltogether so you dont have to.

So, what, exactly, is a Kubotan (pronounced koo-bow-tahn) anyway?

Good question. And to answer that, this chapter will give you the short, whats it look likeand what else might it be called, version. Ill be covering the viewpoint of where did it comefrom and how long has it been around, as-well-as others in the next chapter.

In addition, well have to take a quick overview of the strengths and weakness of this popularself-defense weapon. But, for now...

The Kubotan, also known as a...

1. Pocket-stick...

2. Self-Defense Keychain, and...

3. Mini-Stick...

4. And many others...

...is arguably, the most common self-defenseweapon, next to the handgun, in the United States?

While many new tactical weapons continue to find growing acceptance within the lawenforcement and security communities, there seems to be little change within the realm ofprivate citizens. It appears that, once people find a good thing, they tend to stick with it. (Yes,pun intended!) According to many experts in the field of defense and personal protection...

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...the most popular, and quite possibly the most versatile, personal defense weapon is theKubotan.

For simplicitys sake, I will refer to the weapon throughout this book as the Kubotan or,more simply, the self-defense keychain. However, regardless of the name given to it, thispowerful little compliance tool, carried by thousands of men and women - martial artists andnon-practitioners alike - is an awesome means of deterring and controlling an attack situation.

Besides being, quite probably the cheapest weapon you can buy, in the hands of even aperson skilled in only a few basic moves, the Kubotan is a formidable weapon for stopping anassailant in his tracks. And, for those with more training and developed skills, the self-defensekeychain is one of the most effective self-defense tools that you can use today.

The weapon is simple in appearance, inexpensive to acquire or make, and fairly easy toconceal. While not as versatile and convenient as a clipknife like the Delica from Spyderco - myproffered weapon/tool of choice, by the way - it is easy to learn and even easier to use.

Depending on the manufacturer, the Kubotan is just a basic rod made of metal, plastic, orwood. It is about 6 inches long and, as the name suggests, usually has a key ring attached at oneend. The official, patented, Kubotan weapon invented by a man named Tak Kubota (moreabout him in the next chapter), has grooves machined into the weapon to identify it as a uniquecreation.

There are other variants of the simple model, including what is billedas the Ninja version of the weapon. This little piece of imaginativeeffort, created during the 80s when every weapon had its own Ninjaversion, has two thinner spikes protruding out from the side of theweapon that fit between your fingers when you grasped the main bar ofthe tool.

Let me assure you that, regardless of what you ever read or here, the Kubotan or self-defensekeychain is NOT a Ninja weapon - officially or unofficially. Its ancestors that gave rise to themodern version, at least in Japan, were used by all trained warriors - not just the Ninja.

The more commonly recognized variantsof the weapon are generally manufacturedfrom heavy-duty plastic or aluminum. Theofficial Kubotan, and third-party copies, aresimply straight rods with blunt ends.However, many self-defense key chainshave at least one tapered end with the keyring attacked to the squared, blunt end.Needless to say, some of thesecenterpunch-like versions, like thoseshown in the photo, are extremely

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dangerous - as they have the capability of actually penetrating the target and doing more severedamage.

And, for those of you who are fashion-conscious and need to make sure that yourself-defense weapon doesnt clash with your Armani, these little gems even come in a variety ofcolors and high-tech shapes to match just about any ensemble.

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A Weapon for All Seasons (and Styles)

The versatility of the this effective little item is that it lends itself well to being used indifferent ways by people with different martial arts backgrounds, as well as by people with noformal training in the martial arts whatsoever. In fact, this is perhaps one of the Kubotansgreatest advantages and therefore strengths, in that it can be picked up and easily used by anymartial artist, regardless of style or principle fighting method. Regardless of whether apractitioner has studied the techniques of Aikido, Jujitsu, Karate, Kung Fu, and, yes, Ninjutsu -the art of the Ninja - the self-defense keychain fits easily into, and increases the power of justabout any technique.

As an example, a Karate-oriented practitioner who is trained in, and has a preference forstriking techniques, can utilize the ends of the weapon for painful blows to soft tissue areas ordisabling strikes to an opponent's vital points. Conversely, a practitioner schooled in agrappling-based system like Jujitsu or Aikido, may feel more comfortable using the Kubotan forhooking, trapping, and pain compliance techniques, using the leverage and intense paingenerated by the weapon to immobilize and neutralize an opponents ability to get at him.

Certainly, any school or practitioner that takes theview of having no preferential fighting method - he orshe is comfortable with both striking and grappling -will have even more options with this weapon.Composite styles, like ninjutsu and many otherauthentic warrior arts, find that the Kubotan, to themactually a simplified or modified version of what theycall an eda-koppo stick, allows them the flexibility togo from striking to grappling and back again with notrouble whatsoever.

Even for those without experience in a formalmartial art, the Kubotan provides an economical and easily-learned method of self-protection.This powerful weapon can, and should, also be a part of any good self-defense program. Itsease-of-use and relatively short learning-curve make it the ideal first-weapon for beginningstudents. It can be used to provide a level of comfort, security, and preparedness while thestudent is learning more scientific unarmed techniques, tactics, and strategies that naturally takemore time to internalize.

For many, the self-defense keychainweapon is a tool of pain, pure-and-simple.Regardless of whether youre using it to...

...strike...

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...dig into sensitive areas, or...

...apply crushing pressure to small bones andjoints...

...the fact is that you don't need years of training to be good with it. You can practically, withlittle-or-no extensive training, pick one up and be ready to at least hold-your-own against mostcommon attackers.

Please note that I'm not saying that a certain level of training wouldnt significantly increaseyour ability and chances of success, especially in a more aggressive situation, but for most of theassaults and types of attackers youll most likely encounter in Todays world, its the perfectstarting point for most new students.

As always, my advice is to find a qualified instructor, or a professionally delivered course,where you can be introduced to the weapon properly. Then, when you have the basic ideas andprinciples, combined with the fundamentals of unarmed self-protection tactics, you can go on toexplore the full potential of both the weapon and its uses against a real-world assailant whomight want to do more than slap you around or grab and pull at you.

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Seeing the Self-Defense Keychain as a Model

As always, I advocate looking beyond the form of the weapon as something unique anddistinct. And, the Kubotan is no different. You can get more information about this concept onmy web site at http://www.warrior-concepts-online.com/weapons.html

The trick is to get past the idea of the Kubotan or self-defense keychain as a weaponin-and-of- itself and see that it is really just one form of a type of weapon. In reality, almostanything that is small and stick-like can be used in the same way as the official item.

The accompanying photograph is a sampling ofother items that can be used as alternatives to theKubotan. Just make sure, especially when usingplastic items like some pens, rulers, etc., that you doyour homework to either...

1. Find out what items (brands, etc.) work best,or...

2. Find out how youll have to adapt your techniquewhen working with an item that is too flexible or flimsy.

And, even though there are things that you can dowith the keychain weapon, such as flail with the keys themselves, the more able you are toidentify things that fit into this category and can be pressed into service in your defense, the lesslikely you are to ever feel or see yourself as being unarmed.

As for weakness or limitations, aside from some legal issues that well be exploring inchapter 3, there really arent any. While this could be argued by some, the fact is that, due to theKubotans size and shape...

1. Its difficult to disarm...

2. There is practically no right or wrong way to hold it, and...

3. Its virtually indestructible.

Even with the new anti-terrorist laws and security measures in place, simply replacing themetal version with one of the plastic or polymer versions available takes care of the fear of beingcaught with one in a metal detector. A word of caution here: some of the plastic and polymerversions have a metal shank buried inside that WILL set off a detector. But, if this is a concern,just get a length of dowel rod from a store and cut it to length. Unless youre searched, it will beundetectable.

The important point here is that self-defense key chains, of whatever variety or official name,are highly accessible, extremely durable, effective self defense weapons. They can be used for...

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1. stabilizing your fist...

2. increasing the overall power of your strikes...

3. applying pressure to sensitive parts of an assailant's body, or...

4. gaining leverage on an assailant's wrist or fingers.

They are a useful addition to anyones skill-set and should be a part of your arsenal ofself-defense tools if you are serious about being fully prepared to defend yourself in Todaysoften violent world.

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History & BackgroundAccording to official records regarding trademarks and patents, the official

Kubotan weapon was developed and introduced by Shihan Takayuki Kubota.Mr. Kubota, however, based his invention on the principles of an earlier weaponknown as the yawara. This weapon was more limited than the key ring-versionthat the newer, well-known item. In this respect, it retains all the striking andjoint locking capabilities of the original yawara it evolved from, while giving itsowner a perfectly legal (in most areas) reason for possessing it.

Why bother, you might wander, spending time on learning anything about the history andbackground of a weapon. Why not just pick it up and use it for whatever its obviously suitedfor?

Good question. And while you can do just that and skip this chapter entirely, I find it veryuseful, and extremely insightful, to learn a little bit about where a weapon came from and how itdeveloped in the first place.

You see, I believe that there was a certain logic behind the development of the technology inthe first place. What I mean is that there was a reason that the weapon developed as such - evensomething as simple as the self-defense keychain.

However, I will keep this short and to the point as overwhelming you with names, dates, andspecific details about who did what and when is, at this point in your training, generally a waistof space and effort.

If you really want to get the scoop on the whole yawara stick history, at least as it developedhere in the United States for police officers in the early part of the 20th century, there is plenty tofind online. In fact, the most extensive site Ive found, which includes a free download of ascanned copy of the first training book written for police by the man credited with itsdevelopment, can be found at http://www.yawara.com

In fact, I highly recommend that you go get this book for threereasons...

1. Its filled with tons of additional information that you can addto the information found in this book...

2. Its FREE, and...

3. I recommend it!

What more could you ask for?! Youd be getting a free resourcefilled with information designed for police officers - people who

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had to use the techniques to survive hostile situations, and thats endorsed by an expert whoknows what you need to be safe.

But, I digress. Back to the Kubotan...

An interesting aside to the whole Kubotan development is that, one version of events saysthat Shihan Kubota, the inventor of the Kubotan invented his techniques while looking forefficient ways to use the common ball-point pen. In fact, a well-known and respectedself-defense expert, Mr. Massad Ayoob has written in his work, "The Truth AboutSelf-Protection"...

...The Kubotan was an evolution of a previous system developed by Kubota called penfighting. Seeking a simple self-defense method that could be used by average American Citizenswith little training, Kubota built techniques around solidly constructed ball-point pens."

A Short But Interesting Look at the Secret Buried in History

The truth is that, things are not always what they seem. And, in the case of the evolution ofthe principles and concepts that are the driving force behind what you will learn in connectionwith your self-defense keychain weapon, nothing could be closer to reality.

If you were to guess, what would you say was the starting point of such a small stick-likeweapon? What weapon would you surmise to be the starting point?

For most, the assumption is that the Kubotan grew out of the use of small sticks and that notmuch has changed over the past few centuries since they were first used for self-protection. Intruth, however, this modern stick weapon actually grew out of the Japanese art of Tantojutsu -the science fighting and defending with knives and other short bladed weapons.

Knife-fighting?! How did we get to stick from blade?

Whenever I ask my students this question, the answers a hear are logical but always based onthe assumption that the stick version allows us to do things like stabbing without having toactually cut the opponent. This logic is, itself, based on the fixation of knife-as-cutting/stabbing weapon, when, while not wrong per-se, what is necessary is an understanding of thehistory of the Japanese knife, or tanto, itself before we can even begin to approach the truth.

Apparently, yawara stick techniques were originally taken, at least in-part, from JapaneseTantojutsu. More specifically, from the methods for using a sheathed knife. It is thisunderstanding of the fact that the Japanese knife was, with rare exception, designed like itsbigger brothers, the Katana and Wakazashi - long and short swords, that sheds somemuch-needed light on the subject.

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So, the idea was that the knife was used while still in its sheath orscabbard. In this context, with the blade still contained and unexposed, theweapon is now stick-like and unable to stab or cut in the conventionalsense at all.

How or why would a warrior choose to employ a knife in this fashion?Under what circumstances would this be considered a good idea when certainly using the bladewas going to be much more effective for ending the conflict?

Historically and strategically, this could happen for two reasons - this could happen by accidentor on purpose. Lets take a quick look at each one of these strategic options and see if historydoesnt lend, not just an explanation that will satisfy the information-gatherers out there, butpoint at an expanded possibility for the kinds of items that could be used that we might otherwiseoverlook without it.

Oops! How an Expert Recovers From a Mistake

First, lets explore the accidental strategy. This, in and of itself can have twoperspectives...

1. The truly accidental - accidental, where the combatant intended to draw the blade from thesheath, and...

2. The intentional - accident, where the defender wanted his opponent to think that eitherhe made a mistake or was inept with this particular weapon and therefor and easy opponent.

In the first case, we need to understand the relationship between the materials originally usedto construct the Japanese tanto, knife-weapon, and the effect that weather could, and often didhave on it. Specifically, the effect that moisture in the air, whether from actual rain or just thehigher humidity that one experiences in the semitropical and tropical environment common tomost of the tiny island-nation of Japan.

You see, Japanese warriors often experienced, and therefore had to train and be ready for thecommonplace instance where moisture would cause the wooden scabbard housing their blade toswell and stick. This made it difficult, if not impossible sometimes to draw the blade from itssheath.

So, when a warrior went to draw his blade, he often found the entire weapon, scabbard intact,sliding from his belt. When this happened, he had no choice but to employ it as-is and eitherfinish his opponent this way or wait until the opportunity presented itself that he could actuallyfree the blade for use in the playing out of his defensive strategy.

Take a look at your own situation, even with regard to the self-defense keychain. Can youthink of any instances where this accidental-sticking or jamming could occur? And if so,how would you or could you deal with it?

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As a way to get you started in the right direction, how about...

...the keys or ring section getting caught on clothing or the strap of a handbag during drawingor retrieval?

Can you imagine trying to bring your weapon into play only to feel it hang-up onsomething? I can.

This same thing can happen when using other weapons as well. Many undercover policeofficers and field agents rely on a thinner, pancake type holster for their firearm. And many ofthese holsters simply clip onto a belt or the waistline of your trousers.

Can you imagine an officer trying to pull his sidearm during a scuffle, intending to gaincompliance and control with his gun, when out comes holster and all? Of course the same holdstrue whether your weapon is a knife, can of pepper spray, or anything else that could result in asimilar situation.

As for the intentional-accident strategy; again, its important to understand the true natureand options available in warfare. And that includes street self-defense.

Its often a surprise to my students to be learning a technique directly off of the historicalscrolls past down from warriors past, that involves a grab, punch, or combination attack...

...where one or both combatants are wearing swords.

Why would this guy do this?, is the most common question. This is usually accompaniedby a student admitting, Yeah, I certainly wouldnt do that. Not if he has a sword. That wouldbe stupid. While someone else might add, And not if I have a sword. Id just cut him.

Ah, the voice if inexperience, immaturity, and impatience.

Whats a teacher to do?

I know these questions and statements sound logical, especially to someone with no actualcombat experience. And I know that theyre echoed in the works, both written and visual, ofmore than a fair share of so-called experts in both the martial arts and self-defense realms. But,what can I tell you...

...not everything, nor everyone, is as they seem.

Let me ask you...

...what happens if I draw my sword against an opponent who also has one?

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Feel free to replace the sword analogy with the modern use of the handgun. In fact, replace itwith any weapon for that matter - knife, baseball bat, pool cue... you name it.

What do you think would happen?

Right... He pulls his weapon.

So?

So... Now you have just done several things, none of which are good ideas in an actual fight.Nor do they show skill, tactical expertise, nor an understanding of the strategic control of aviolent situation. In short...

...doing this only looks good, right, and appropriate to others of the same or lesser skill level.

What have I done by drawing my weapon to attack first? How about...

1. Taking the fight to the highest level it can go. Once youve drawn a weapon, you cannever go back to a lower level of intensity in the fight. Conversely, NOT drawing a weaponalways leaves the potential for bringing it into play if the situation escalates naturally or requiresit. But, you lose this option and remove the possibility of de-escalating once the weapon is inplay.

2. You give away any advantage that comes with a sneak attack. Unless the drawing of theweapon is at close-quarters and IS the sneak attack, you immediately put your opponent, notonly on the defensive, but on high-alert as soon as you brandish a weapon. In effect, you tellthem that they will have to fight harder to beat you. And an adversary who is fighting with allthat he or shes got, is going to be more difficult to beat from the start. And, finally...

3. Giving up the ability and possibility of controlling and disarming the enemy BEFORE youdraw your weapon; thereby preventing him from effectively defending against your nowdominant position. In fact, many common martial arts moves were designed specifically for thispurpose. Although, in the sports-laden and non-combative forms (yeah, yeah, I know, you fightin tournaments to prove your techniques work...) of todays martial arts-world, its hard to see,let alone find, many teachers who can point out these little secrets of the real warriors of the past.

So, the strategic concept here is that we either avoid pulling the weapon at first, conveying asense of forgetfulness or, we apparently grab the weapon incorrectly, implying a lack of skillaltogether. Then, once our adversary is off-guard and feeling superior, we knock him off hispedestal by then drawing the weapon and completely surprising him with our true proficiency.

Unfortunately, many martial artists and self-defense teachers are more interested in showingoff their own skills and abilities than using disciplined restraint. I know that this strategy is oftentalked about but, after watching, reading, or actively engaging with literally hundreds ofteachers, I fond that most either cant or wont walk-the-talk.

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Its almost as if they cant bring themselves to feign weakness or a lack of skill. They act asif this is a sign of true weakness or inferiority, when in truth, it is the height of mastery and oneof the ultimate strategies.

Not to do so because one cant is a sign of immature technique and understanding. But, toknow this strategy and not employ it is the epitome of ignorance and a sure trip to the hospital orthe morgue.

Closing Strategies From Japanese Knife-Fighting

In most books and videos that focus on using the self-defense keychain for protection, theweapon is almost universally held in the middle. When, in many of the historical applications ofeven short stick weapon, the weapon is often held toward one end.

Take a look at the accompanying picture and see how theweapon is being held, not in a hammer-like manner, but along thelifeline of the palm in knife-like fashion as if for stabbing, cutting,and piercing-thrusts. In fact, this grip, just as with a knife, isactually stronger than the hammer-grip most often demonstratedin martial arts and self-defense classes. A basic knowledge ofphysiology can not only make your techniques more powerful, butallow for a deeper, more useful understanding of such phrasesas...

...the weapon is an extension of the body, and ...the bodyand weapon are one.

If you really want to make your Kubotan, and many other weapon techniques stronger andmore versatile, add the study of knife-fighting to the mix. And, when youre training with theself-defense keychain, try to imagine that youre holding a knife instead. See what that does foryou in terms of expanding your sense of what you could or would do with the weapon.

Remember: Just because the weapon cant cut, doesnt mean that we cant employ it like onethat can. Even when were training with a knife, the fact that we know that there are many moreparts to it than a cutting edge and a stabbing point, allows a true warrior to be able to flow withthe winds of change and adapt more readily to any given situation.

And, it is this ability to adapt that allows warriors to survive where others do not.

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Self-Defense PrinciplesYou Must Remember

Regardless of whether youre using a Kubotan self-defense keychain, a handgun, or unarmedtactics, there are certain undeniable concepts and principles - truths if you will - about aself-defense encounter that must be acknowledged and planned for. To overlook or ignore evenone of these is to be done at your own risk and peril.

There are many more principles outlined in my other books, videos, and live programs, butwell start with the most basic, and therefore the most important here. If youre interested inlearning more about these important life-saving strategies, you should start with my book, TheKarate-Myth which can be obtained through the website at this URL,

http://www.warrior-concepts-online.com/self-defense-karatemyth.html

If youre new to the topic of real-world self-defense, burn these principles into yoursubconscious mind so that youll never forget them. If you consider yourself to be an oldveteran or an advanced student, you might still want to look over them, just to make sure thatyoure not missing anything important.

Self-Defense Principles to Live By

1. You Are Your Own First-Line of Self Defense

Remember that, when the attack happens, more often than not, you will be alone. And, ifyou are with someone else, then chances are even greater that you are facing multiple attackers.

I talk a lot in my other books and articles, especially in The Karate-Myth, about the factthat no one else, not even the police, can save you. And that goes for your teacher, regardless ofhow good he or she is.

You will either be prepared or not when the penny drops. That means that...

...it will be your responsibility to do what you must to survive until help, back-up, whatever,arrives.

And that goes for those of us who have been trained to know better. Like the story of anoff-duty police officer who, having years of training carried her firearm with her everywhere shewent.

Until one day, she went out to lunch with mom and dad.Page 18

Since they were just going into a fast-food place for lunch and mom and dad didnt caremuch for guns, she decided to leave the weapon in her car.

During lunch, a man entered the restaurant and killed several patrons...

...including her parents.

Though she got out with her life, the ONE TIME she needed her training and her weapon...

...her parents died.

So, if youre going to train yourself with a Kubotan, or any other weapon, make sure that, notonly is it WITH you when you need it, that if possible...

...its IN your HAND!

2. Keep It Short and Simple

Sport martial artists kill me. Not that they can anymore than anyone else, but what they doand the way they think is what leaves me shaking my head in confusion and disbelief.

Anyone who ever been in a real world encounter where they were fighting for life and limbknows that seconds can feel like an eternity.

SECONDS.

In fact, the average self-defense encounter is over in 6 to 10 seconds. Not minutes.

So much for the money-making climactic fight scenes at the end of a movie, huh? Where thehero takes on the arch-villian for 20 minutes or so.

Sorry. Just doesnt work that way.

In fact, you only store enough glycogen (a type of sugar) in your muscles for fight-or-flightwork for about 7 to 11 seconds of full-out work. After that, your body must hold out for another7 to 11 seconds to produce enough of that magic juice to go at it again.

The fact that karate tournaments set things up with a two minute time frame on average isproof that things are not geared towards self-defense. Of course, all the rules that are nonexistenton the street help a little too.

If youve ever been attacked, you probably know that it was over long before two minuteswere up (if you were counting). Unless youre running and hiding or pulling the school boy

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fight thing where it looks like a boxing match, you cant physically keep going for longer thanyour muscles have fuel for.

In addition to this, a self-defense situation is NOT the time nor the place to be showing offyour way-cool tricky moves. The attacker doesnt care and, quite frankly, that kind offoolishness is just going to make him...

...fight HARDER!

If you want to win - if you want to survive - if you want to wake up tomorrow on THIS sideof the grass, you have got to keep your defenses simple and to the point. Do what you have to doto get him to stop - and do it quickly.

Period.

3. Theres a Difference Between a Fight and a Self-Defense Situation

Again, you have to know why youre there.

Are you trying to prove something?

Do you need to be right?

Are you trying to make a point?

Are you afraid of getting something you dont want or losing something you do?

If you are, than youre in a fight - youre fighting.

Its not self-defense, although you might be trying to defend yourself while simultaneouslytrying to inflict your damage on him.

But, a self-defense situation is different. Its very different - before the attack even starts.

Where a fight has two or more combatants who are willing participants in the foray, they areall there by mutual agreement. They all WANT to be there.

Whereas, in a defensive encounter there may be two or more mutually agreeable participantsto the event, but...

...they are all on the SAME side!

In a self-defense situation, at least one of the combatants has NOT chosen to be there.

Do you see the difference?

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While a self-defense situation and a fight may APPEAR to be the same thing, they are inreality, very different.

So, get over any thoughts, fears, or aversions to fighting. I dont like to fight either. But...

...I have become very good at fighting skills and dealing with a person who wants to fight orattack me.

There is a big difference.

4. If You Dont Have to Fight - DONT!

In the ancient scrolls passed down in the Takagi-Yoshin Ryu, one of the nine martial lineagesinherited b my teacher, there is contained in one of them, the secret to winning every fight. Doyou want to know what it is?

I thought you might.

Its this...

...never get into a fight you cant win.

Sounds obvious doesnt it. But, when was the last time you heard that or saw itdemonstrated by a martial artist or so-called self-defense expert?

If you havent already done so, go to my website and sign up for the free 7-part Foundationsof Self-Defense Mastery eCourse. You can get it by clicking on this link: http://www.warrior-concepts-online.com/self-defense-mastery-course.html This eye-openingcourse will help you to see that a good self-defense strategy involves the recognition andpreparation for dealing with no less than 6 phases of development leading up to and includingphysically dealing with an actual assailant.

Where most instructors and programs talk about or hint at some ideas for avoiding orescaping, Ill give you 5 stages for being able to defend yourself and either avoid, escape ornegotiate your way out of a bad situation with literally hundreds of options.

Physically handling an assailant should always be your last choice and only after you haveexhausted several other options.

Why?

Quite simply because it affords the greatest possibility of something...

...GOING WRONG!

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No matter how good you are...

...no matter how long youve been training...

...regardless of how much you know, or even...

...what kind of weapon you have...

...there is always the chance that something can, and probably will, happen that will messeverything up.

Yes, Im talking about Murphys Law. And it applies to combat and self-defense just asmuch as anything else in your life.

The fact is that...

1. You dont know when or where you will be attacked.

2. You dont know what the attack will be.

3. You dont know who your assailant will be or how many you will be facing, and...

4. You dont know how far theyre willing to go to hurt you.

So, why would you be in a hurry to getting physical in the face of so many unknowns.

You may HAVE to get physical but, to choose to without trying less aggressive measuresfirst is just asking for the worst that can happen.

5. You Will Defend as You Have Trained - Make Sure Youre Right!

Its been said that human beings are creatures of habit. The difference between we humansand the rest of the animal world that is trapped by instinct is that we have the capability tochange many of our habitual responses to stimuli. This isnt always easy and sometimes it isnteven done consciously, but...

...the fact that once we create or establish a set of habits, we can get just as trapped as thelower animals.

What does this mean?

It means that, once you enter a program or start to learn some moves and strategies fordefending yourself, you will buy into this new perspective - this new reality.

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And, while you will probably be able to do very well with the skills you learn in the safety ofthe training hall, this has nothing at all to do with how well you will be able to produce results inthe real world. Unless...

...great care has been taken to insure that the training matches, as closely as possible, thatwhich occurs in the real world.

This is why you must, not only insure that youve chosen a teacher and program that you cantrust, but also...

1. You practice correctly. Its been said that practice makes perfect, but thats not true.Perfect practice makes perfect. Its much better to practice a technique correctly three timesthan incorrectly three-hundred times. Remember that youre practicing to develop skills that willwork automatically when you need them. Incorrect skills will pop-up automatically just asreadily but...

2. The skills that you develop MUST be against attacks that you are most likely to face.Practically no one, including trained martial artists, throw karate-type punches in a real,anger-based attack. Training against one in your school of choice may be a great way topreserve the historical techniques of an ancient tradition, but it will do nothing to prepare you forthat guy who throws a really powerful right-cross!

3. You make sure that you not only understand the defensive, counter moves of thetechnique youre learning, but also the type of attack that its designed to work against.Far too many students and teachers train in, what I call, mathematical martial arts. Thatswhere, just as two plus two always equals four, its assumed that their techniques will workagainst any attack.

Just aint so.

Just remember that you, and only you, are responsible for your own safety. And thatresponsibility begins long before any attacker appears before you. To be ready, you must knowwhat youre trying to be ready for.

Otherwise, you may find, just like several of my students who spent years training in themartial arts only to discover that they knew little to nothing about self-defense that, for all ofyour hard work, time, and money spent...

...you arent prepared for anything!

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Legal ConcernsAs for the legal side, whether or not a Kubotan, or any other weapon is being restricted,

controlled or legislated against in your area, thats something that youll have to investigateyourself. But, in most areas there are no laws prohibiting the ownership, possession, or use of aself-defense keychain. However, thats not to say that it will always be this way.

However, regulated or not, even in areas where there are no laws governing weapons like theKubotan, you still run the risk of having to deal with law enforcement authorities that haventlearned that you are responsible for your own safety. Ive heard of several instances wheresomeone defending themselves against an attack with the Kubotan, only to find that authoritiesconfiscated their weapon or charged them with assault.

Certainly, the versions of this weapon that have flat ends and no spikes on them, are lesslikely to cause you trouble than others. A bit of common sense should also tell you that, legal ornot, keychain weapons that have spikes protruding from them, or that can be opened and exposeknife blades, will present more of a problem. Im not saying that you should not possess thesetypes. I am saying that you will have to make your own decisions and deal with whateverconsequences produce.

Also, stay focused on the fact that any weapon may be banned by name but as long aswe focus on the 5 Weapon Classifications, then anything can be pressed into service as an aid toour defense. I dont care where you live, learning to use items of like size and shape as that ofthe Kubotan, should be a vital part of your training.

Whining, or worry about whether or not the weapon is illegal will do you know good.Instead, focus on what you need to learn and be a little Ninja-like, by finding substitutes for itthat you can put to use if the situation calls for it.

If the Kubotan, or whatever you call it in your area IS illegal, dont worry about it. Just usesomething that isnt against any law. The following items can be used in the same way as theself-defense keychain, with little to no modifications whatsoever:

1. Mini-flashlight (often available with key ring attachments as well)

2. Hair brushes

3. Wrenches, screw drivers (and any other weapon that a mechanic or other maintenance personmight naturally have on their person during work hours or when doing repairs)

4. Telephone receivers and cellular telephones

5. Baby rattles (and similar toys that a new mother might have on her or in her hand)

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6. Small hand weights (for aerobics and toning classes - just in case youre jumped in the parkinglot after class)

7. Solid, metal-shank ball-point pens

8. Smaller, glass condiment bottles (like those lining the shelves in your refrigerator and filledwith soy sauce, etc.)

9. Wooden or metal rulers (plastic is okay if the ruler is triangular as are those used for drafting,etc.)

10. Certain types of salt and pepper shakers (and these have the ability to dispense blindingagents into your assailants eyes, as well!)

I know that, when you start looking around, youll be able to easily double this list. Thepoint is that, all of the above items are legal and...

...there is little chance that they will EVER be banned.

So, are there places and situations where carrying an official Kubotan or self-defensekeychain can and will get you into trouble?

Most certainly.

But, are there items that can be used in the same way so as to make it unnecessary to worryabout whether or not they are legal in the first place?

Absolutely.

So, dont worry about legality and train. If you really want to possess this life-savinginformation - and you should - then you cant let appearances dictate whether or not you can orwill be safe.

Just do what any good Ninja Warrior would do under like circumstances...

...adapt, overcome, and be prepared to win!

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Basic Striking TechniquesThe most basic applications with the self-defense keychain involve striking or poking

vulnerable areas of the body. Since the weapon in made of hard, durable materials like metal,wood, and hard poly-resin plastics, strikes can be delivered against just about any part of theassailants body. Exposed bony surfaces, like the skull and breastbone can by cracked andbroken, while fleshy areas, and bones covered with muscle are very susceptible to pokes, jabs,and digging with the ends of the Kubotan.

With this in mind, you can avoid the confusion and frustration of trying to remember whichstrikes are for which specific targets. Instead, you simply need to remember to strike bones andpoke nerve centers and pressure points. And, if youre just starting and lack any real strikingskill...

...just start hitting them anywhere you can land a shot!

The Kubotan greatly intensifies the destructive power of any strike you deliver. As a result,its not necessary to waste time, miss an opportunity, or worry about trying to be overly precise.As with everything, its better to react naturally.

An example, pointed out by one expert, is that...

...the fundamental objective of striking the arm may entail hitting the elbow; but it can alsomean hitting the wrist, back of the hand, or the knuckles. There are many worthy targets asidefrom the arm. The shin, hip bone, collarbone, ankle, and kneecap are all desirable targets. Asharp crack to a bony area will prompt an assailant to discontinue his attack. A harder,well-placed blow can easily break bones--especially if the force of the blow is not diminished byclothing.

Id love to know where I got that from. Its in my notes but I forgot to cite where it camefrom so I apologize for not giving credit where credit is do.

Kubotan strikes are effective at any range, as long as you know how to strike from where youare. Again, its not the weapon, its the person wielding it that is effective or not. That beingsaid, the Kubotan can certainly make any mediocre hit feel like you just hit them with a brick!

For those of you who have done some training with me or have access to my video products,youve already been shown how to make the weapon work with the basic counterstrike to anincoming limb, such as when an assailant reaches out to grab, push, or kick you. Just as with theknuckles during unarmed defense, the extending limb can be disabled with a quick, snapping, orswinging strike. When the opponent attacks, move away to a safe defensive position and delivera damaging blow to the now exposed targets on the inside or outside of the limb with a solidflick, drive, or glancing strike with the end of the Kubotan.

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Remember that, with the help of your new friend, the blow does not have to be perfect.And, since an impacting weapon like this one makes it practically unnecessary to have to aim forspecific centers, even a glancing blow will inflict enough pain to make your attacker regret hisactions.

Since there are such a wide variety of ways to use the Kubotan, there is no one correct way tohold the weapon. Different strikes require different grips and much depends on an individual'spersonal preferences. The photos show several of the grips that can be used. Just know thatwhatever grip you choose, you could also be limiting yourself to certain types of striking actionsas-well-as target accessible with it. However, developing the ability to be able to change grips inmid-defense without dropping the weapon, will greatly enhance your ability and success.

Since a picture is worth a thousand words, lets forgo any more descriptions of what to doand take a look at a couple of technique scenarios. This way, you can see the weapon in actionand perhaps formulate a few ideas of your own for created results in a self-protection situation.

Basic Grips for Striking

This is probably the mostfundamental way of holding theKubotan. Notice how a tip projectsfrom each end of my fist and mythumb is in position to be able to grabclothing, pinch skin, or applycrushing force against the shaft of theweapon.

In this modified,knife-like grip, more ofthe working endprotrudes to allow for,not only jabs and strikes,but scraping techniquesas well.

This last grip is a reverse grip for snagging and holding-typemaneuvers as well as flailing with the keys.

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Defense Against a Punch, Slap, or Grab #1

In this technique, youll see how anrelatively untrained defender with the rightattitude can deliver a series of damagingblows - even if mistakes are made in theprocess.

The secret here is to never quite and toalways be able to turn adversity intoadvantage.

First, the defender guards against theattempted punch, slap, or grab from herassailant.

Notice how she hides her wind-up bydoing it at the same time she is avoidingand covering against her attackersincoming limb.

From beneath his attack, and before he canexecute a follow-up, Sheree slams theworking end of the keychain weapon intohe adversarys groin, pelvic bone, or the pitof his stomach.

This causes his hips to reflexively pullaway, leaving him even more off-balanceand open to a wide array of follow-upattacks.

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Taking advantage of her assailantsopen position and unguarded target, shenow jams the end of her self-defensekeychain up under the attackers jawline, causing him to snap his head away.

Depending on relative positioning,Sheree can strike the tip of the jaw/chin,underside of the jaw area (into the baseof the tongue, or even into heropponents throat. (See inset)

Rather than stop her strike on the surface ofthe target, Sheree makes sure that she followsall the way through with her striking action.

This insures maximum effectiveness of thestrike and simultaneously positions theweapon for another follow-up strike fromabove his now expose throat and upper-chestarea.

With her attacker completely open to herfollow-up, Sheree can finish by hammeringdown onto his throat, base of his neck, upperribs, or clavicles to drop her attacker onto hisseat.

The combination of blows to so many areas ofhis body leaves the assailant both bruised (if notbroken) and severely confused.

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Defense Against a Punch, Slap, or Grab #2

In this example, Sheree begins as before exceptthat she has positioned herself more to theinside of her assailants attacking arm.

This pre-attack setup is an advanced skillwhere the defender opens targets as bait. Thatway, when the assailant, takes the bait, hewill play directly into the defenders intendedtechnique.

In this case, she uses her position to circlearound and under the attack. From hereshe can deliver several differentcounter-attacking strikes, depending onthe angle of her arm and the relativeposition of the targets as she enters.

Almost impossible to convey in staticpictures is the dynamic nature of how thepieces come together in the flow of thefight.

Now, from her new position inside thefight, Sheree is free to strike either theribs or smaller muscles between them...

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...her assailants solar plexus...

...his floating rib...

...or, in this case, his hip-flexor tendon.

Please keep in mind that she is not limited tojust these targets. Rather, she will naturalchoose the best targets that can be damagedby the equally natural swing of her arm asshe enters.

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Defense Against a Hooking Punch or Face Slap

Here, Sheree confidently stops her assailantsintended slap to her face and simultaneouslywinds up to strike with her self-defensekeychain in a reverse-grip position.

From her dominant position, she slams down ontoher attackers chest, at the top of his pectoralmuscle. This point, when struck, affects theassailants own ability to breath well by shuttingdown his diaphragm on that side.

As alternative targets, Sheree could also...

...strike and grind down on his ...send a strike slamming into ...pound down on the bones,Sternum... his face or eye socket, or... nerves, and muscles of his

upper arm.

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Basic Grappling and ComplianceTechniques

For those who are proficient in some of the martial arts and self-defense systems, includingJudo and even collegiate wrestling, that emphasize grappling and joint locks, the Kubotan can beused to provide added leverage. Wrist locks, arm bars, come-alongs, chokes, and leg locksinstantly become more painful and agonizing with the Kubotan either providing extra leverage oradding a bit of crushing pressure against an exposed bone or muscle.

Nearly all joint locking techniques common to arts like Jujitsu and Aikido can become easierto apply with the Kubotan. The weapon's rigidity makes it much more resistant to an opponent'sefforts to power out of a hold or lock. Obviously, a fundamental knowledge of anatomy and thebody's lever points are necessary to make these techniques work, with or without a weapon likethe Kubotan. However, for those who have such knowledge, self-defense tools like the Kubotan,cane, and even knives, can provide some much-needed assistance to reinforce these techniquesor make them more disabling.

The weapon can be used to dig into any fleshy area but is most damaging when used againstareas where the nerve concentration is higher, like the wrist or elbow joint. Similarly, a capturedleg can be immobilized with grinding pressure to the ankle, shin, or inside of the knee joint.

In situations that require a more aggressive approach, the Kubotan can be used to intensifychoking techniques, be slammed into the side of the cervical vertebrae in the neck and, if needbe, even be used to crush an attacker's trachea.

The self-defense keychain is also valuable for snagging limbs before or after applying astriking technique. Its important to remember, just as with any weapon including knives andguns, that just because a weapon has a primary use, you dont have to limit yourself to usingonly that strategy.

As an example of this, you can start by taking up a grip that allows for several inches to beprotruding. Then, as you are avoiding your assailants attempts to hot or grab, you can hook apart of the attacker's body with the Kubotan, or pinch some skin between the shaft and yourthumb or other fingers, and then follow up with an immediate strike or kick of your own.

You can also reverse the process and strike first, and then apply a hooking-catch to the neckor wrist to control the opponent's balance. In effect, the Kubotan enables a defender to literallypin an adversary's head, forcing it downward, backward, or to the side. Remember that aperson's body will follow the direction that his head is being taken, thereby making himextremely vulnerable to any number of finishing techniques.

Again, the following photographs will show much more than I could possibly describe usingthe written word. I have purposely only included one main technique as most of what I would

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show related to grappling would be a combination of striking and grabbing with the weapon.Review this primary technique for clues and ideas for other ways to apply this powerful weaponin a life-threatening encounter.

Instead, what Ive done is given you a series of pictures that show many of the sensitive areasof an attackers body that are especially susceptible to attack with the keychain weapon.

Defense Against a Rear Body-Grab (Bearhug)

Here, Sheree has been grabbed from therear. As she is carrying her self-defensekeychain, there is no need to go searchingfor it in a panic.

She merely sinks her weight by bending herknees to prevent her assailant from beingable to move her easily.

She then applies grinding and crushingpressure with the corner-edge (or point ifapplicable) of the weapon to the sensitivebones of her attackers hand.

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As the attacker loosens his grip in an attemptto escape the pain to his hand, Shereemaintains control and guides them away fromher body...

She moves to the side, simultaneouslycontrolling one of her assailants arms andmoving away from a possible follow-up fromthe other.

She is now in a perfect position...

...to deliver a powerful follow-up slammingstrike to her adversarys ribcage.

With her attacker now unable to breath, andreeling from the pain to his hand and ribs,she will be free to escape to safety or stayand finish with additional blows that willguarantee her survival.

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Sensitive Targets and the Methods for Attacking Them...

While the following examples are by no means all there is, they should provide you with anexcellent start in your study, or provide even the most seasoned practitioner with a few moreoptions for his or her consideration.

I will be releasing a video product in the near future which will include many more dynamicexamples for using this powerful weapon to control and stop a determined attacker. For now, getthe basics and you will be well on your way to a stronger feeling of confidence, power, andcontrol!

Additional grip for seizingand applying pressure

The earlobe is especially sensitiveto pinching and crushing pressure

Here, there are threepossibilities. Either thecartilage of the ear can becrushed, the ear could beused to lever the edge of theweapon into the mastoid, orboth!

Pinching the lip at the gum-lineis especially painful!

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Pinching the corotid pouchis both painful and it cutsoff valuable blood to theattackers brain.

Using the thumb as an anchor todrive the end of the Kubotaninto sensitive points like thosealong the underside of the jaw

Digging behind and into theclavicles along the top ofthe rib cage is very painful

Crushing smaller bones andjoints against the side of theweapon is often sufficientenough to stop an attackersadvance

Grabbing hold of a finger,skin, or other body or otherbody and crushing it againstthe weapon is very effective.

Another view of the sametechnique

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Where Do You Go From Here?As I have said several times throughout this book, its important for you to remember that the

Kubotan is not a sort of magic wand. It will not do things for you that you cannot do unarmedwithout it. But it is one of the few conceivable martial arts weapons that is legal and entirelyunregulated for the great majority of citizens. And, again, for those who have the unfortunatefate of living where it is - there are countless items that can be used with the same effectiveness.

The Kubotan is also one of those rare weapons that is quick and easy to learn. It does notrequire years of study to become proficient and, while it does help to have a little unarmedself-defense training under your belt so-to-speak, it can practically be picked up by just aboutanyone and instantly produce results.

The self-defense keychain is almost hidden, even in plain view. There is a reason, of course.And that is, despite its popularity among martial artists and many law enforcement professionals,to most people, the Kubotan is little-more than a odd-looking key ring. Even for those in themartial arts and law enforcement communities who recognize its potential, the self-defensekeychain does not invoke the same unsavory connotations and legal difficulties of many otheredged and impact weapons.

While the Kubotan is not particularly intimidating, like its ancestors, the yawara and even theJapanese tanto, it remains a superbly versatile instruments for self defense. However, you mustalways, always remember that it is not the weapon but you...

...you and your skills, that make the difference.

A Brutal Reminder

Never forget that we are talking about self-defense here. If you are serious enough aboutprotecting yourself to be reading this book, then you can never forget that...

...this is not a game.

This book has NOT been about winning in a karate or wrestling tournament or match. It hasbeen about one thing and one thing only...

...living.

As I said at the beginning, this book is only a primer to get you started in the right direction.The rest is up to you. The time, effort, and, yes, even money, that you put into your training andpreparation will be reflected at the moment the rubber-meets-the-road, so-to-speak. Because,

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you will only be as good in a self-defense situation as the effort put into everything done up tothat point.

Of course there is always luck and the chance that it will never happen to you. But then,if you depended on those things...

...you wouldnt be reading this book would you?!

So, How Do You Get More Information and Training?

There are numerous books, articles and videos out there on the Kubotan. Unfortunately,there all going to point out pretty much the same things.

My suggestion is to extend your search out into the other realms of self-protection - botharmed and unarmed. Dont limit yourself to just learning the Kubotan, even if youre trying toget better at using the Kubotan.

What I mean is, dont forget that ultimately the weapon came from knife training, so...

...get some knife training.

Dont forget that the Kubotan is really just a short stick-weapon,...

...so get some training with sticks, especially shorter sticks like...

1. Canes

2. Escrima (shorter Filipino fighting sticks used in Arnis and Kali), and...

3. Hanbo (short half-staffs used in many Japanese arts like Ninjutsu)

And, particularly, dont forget that this weapon, as with all weapons...

...is only an extension of your body - an extension of your unarmed techniques.

Your proficiency and skill with this weapon will be a direct reflection of your overall skill,regardless of whether youre using it, another weapon, or...

...no weapon at all.

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An Open Invitation

I know that its not always easy to get away for training. In fact, I have never been closer than 9hours from my teacher.

NINE HOURS!

Thats driving and, yes, one-way.

No. Not uphill, in the snow, both ways!

Im serious.

Im just one of those people who will travel or whatever to get what I need. And, I will go,and do whatever I have to get what I need from someone I can trust. Even if that means takingmore time and expending more effort and money to get it.

In fact, my teacher once reminded me that if I wanted to be successful, I was going to have todo what every other successful person has done, and that was to be...

...willing to invest three times more in the way of time, effort, and money and to be great.

After all, Its my life were talking about...

...and yours.

So, heres my invitation to you.

If youve found the information in the book helpful and you want to get more informationand real-world training just like it...

...come and train with me - directly - at one of my live events.

And to make that even easier for you, Ive included with thispackage, a discount certificate good for 25% off the cost ofwhatever program you choose. Thats a value of up to $50!

And, if you combine the certificate with anyearly-registration discounts I have, that could easily double!

In addition to regular, ongoing classes, I hold regularseminars on a variety of subjects and host two intensive trainingcamps throughout the year.

This doesnt require that you move or relocate to get closerto me, although others have done just that. It does require,

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though, that you make the effort to arrange for time off work - time away from family - andmaybe even hold off buying that three-headed goat from Atlantis that youve had your eye on forsome time.

But, it does require that you take action. Even so, you wouldnt be doing anything that I, myteachers, and many others before you have done to take control of this very important part ofyour life.

But, as always the choice is yours.

So, there it is.

If youre serious about learning to be able to protect yourself and to be able to escape fromdanger.

If you want to be able to set up your life so that you handle the danger before it even has achance to effect you. And...

...if you want some of the best training available in the world, then...

...I look forward to seeing and training with you very soon.

If youre not sure, think about it, and...

...I wish you all the best in whatever life brings.

The rest, my friend, is up to you.

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About the AuthorJeffrey Miller is the founder and director or Warrior Concepts

International, and is known worldwide for his knowledge andunderstanding in the area of conflict resolution. He has been training inthe martial arts for over two-thirds of his life and holds a 10th degreeBlack Belt. As a senior master teacher in the Bujinkan Dojo trainingsystem of Dr. Masaaki Hatsumi or Noda-City, Japan, he has been trainedin the techniques, strategies, and tactics of the following nine ancientwarrior lineages:

Togakure-Ryu NinjutsuGyokko-Ryu KosshijutsuKoto-Ryu KoppojutsuKukishinden-Ryu Happo Hikenjutsu & BujutsuShinden Fudo-Ryu Dakentaijutsu & JutaijutsuGikan-Ryu DakentaijutsuGyokushin-Ryu NinpoTakagi Yoshin-Ryu Jutaijutsu, and...Kumogakure-Ryu Ninjutsu

In addition, he has trained in, and holds various ranks in several other martial arts.

Mr. Miller is a former federal police officer and undercover investigator with the US Army where healso served as his units self-defense and combat handgun instructor. His duty has included serving inunits both here in the United States, as-well-as South Korea and the former West Germany. Mr. Millersassignments and training have included...

...drug suppression and enforcement...

...Black Market suppression...

...physical security...

...counter-terrorist operations...

...SRT (SWAT) team operations, and...

...VIP/escort security (bodyguard work)

He has trained civilian, law enforcement, security, and military personnel on three continents and is inconstant demand for lectures, seminars, and to assist with other training programs. Currently, he is aself-defense and safety consultant for the Hemlock Council of the Girl Scouts of America and hasdesigned several child safety courses for school-age children, as-well-as a training program that allowsteen scouts to earn their Your Best Defense interest project (IPP).

Mr. Miller is also a consultant to businesses and other organizations on the topic of workplaceviolence. Unlike other experts, his focus is on training management and personnel those lessons neededto survive a real-world incident where the companys passive workplace violence plan has failed andemployees find themselves face-to-face with their worst nightmare. His assistance in making sure thatthis important element is added to planning and training will be vital in making sure that a company is notheld liable for damages occurring through negligence.

He is the author and producer of several books and training videos including, RAPE: AmericasMythical Crime, The Karate-Myth, and Danger Prevention Tactics: Protecting Yourself Like a Pro, as-well-ascountless articles for various media sources - many of which can be founded posted on web sites acrossthe internet.

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In addition to ongoing programs in the art of Ninjutsu at his academy, Mr. Miller also offers a series ofvaluable seminars and workshops every month on a variety of topics, including EDR: Non-Martial ArtsDefensive Response Certification Intensives, that deal with self-protection and personal developmentissues. In addition, he holds two Ninja Training Camps each year, in the Spring and again in the Fall,where participants can train directly with both him, and an array of guest instructors in the centuries-oldself-protection lessons and life skills of Japans ancient Ninja Night Warriors.

For questions about this and other programs, or for having him as a presenter, guest or keynotespeaker, or consultant for your group or organization, Mr. Miller may be reached either through hisinformation-packed web site:

www.warrior-concepts-online.com

...or directly, by calling his academy (in the US) at: 570-988-2228.

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