Knife

Stance

Stand in your normal fighting stance with the knife in the leading hand. "Hide" behind the knife, letting it be all the opponent sees. Keep free hand close to the midsection to protect vital areas. In Filipino Escrima, the free hand is used as a shield and is sacrificed, if necessary. The creed is "You may cut my hand, but I will take your life!" The free hand may be used to parry, punch, fake a blow, throw objects, distract the opponent, assist balance in rough terrain, or even to grab opponent's blade. It may also be used to trap the opponent's hand as he or she attempts to draw a weapon.