Kerambit and Thrusting Technique

Kerambit and Thrusting Technique

By Guro Jeff Chung

2007

Depending upon the design of a particular Kerambit, some are much more suited than others to deliver a straight ahead "punching" motion, or what is more commonly known as a thrusting action with a Kerambit. For a kerambit to be more effective as a thrusting tool, there needs to be sufficient acute angulation of the blade, relative to the handle. The closer to 90 degrees, the more it can be used accurately as a thrusting tool.

We understand that, the more the angle closer to 90 degrees, the greater the loss of slashing ability. In addition the increased length of blade of a given Kerambit will also effect how well it can slash and "pass through" a given target upon the body. I find that for myself, a blade greater than 3 to 3.5 inches is too long for slashing if I also have it angled appropriately for a good thrusting action. From previous articles, you all know I prefer a shorter blade length these days.

Another consideration with a kerambit designed for thrusting actions is the blade width. Too wide can look very fearsome, and will allow for a greater wound channel. The downside is, if a person is twisting or moving at the time one decides to thrust, there will be increased torque acting upong the blade. So a good grip and careful attention to the position of the hand/wrist/blade is critical to effect a good strike, especially if the target is wearing alot of gear or possibly body armor.

The technique of thrusting with a Kerambit is rather intuitive. What is NOT so intuitive and needs to be considered are the target areas one can access while minimizing the potential danger to oneself from counterattack. Consider that you thrust, and miss a vital area... sure, the target might be injured; however, we know that in real life when people are fighting for survival, they can withstand a great deal of pain and will struggle and resist back. If you've gotten your blade lodged into a target due to clothing, or bone, or possibly the physical characteristics of a given kerambit that might impede your withdrawal, you are subject to potential serious counterattack.

These are just some thoughts to consider in regards to thrusting techniques. In the future, I will be releasing an eBook on some more details in reference to these types of techniques nd considerations that need to be factored into one's training to allow for the most success in understanding the use of a Kerambit.


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