WeaselCraft

13 days and a wake up

2011-10-19T07:40:00.001-06:00

In 13 days, I will be marrying the woman who changed my life!

Enough of the crap

2011-08-17T19:48:00.002-06:00

Hello everyone, I know it has been awhile but things have been really busy in mostly a good way.
One thing that I noticed that has been bothering me prompted me to post here before I had other
things written like I planned.
There has been alot of rancor and bullshit floating around the martial world of late, and it seems
to really have been excessive in the southeast asian arts arena. Quite frankly it is stupid and childish.
No one worth having as a student is going to believe you are the deadliest mofo on the planet, and it is
not the way to prove it by talking shit about other instructors. Really, grow up, that is elementary school
behavior, and should be below an adult, much less someone claiming to be a warrior.
If you were in an organization with someone but now are not, you really make me question you and your
judgement and skills if you say your former associate has no skill. Really? Then why were you together for
years and vouch for him. What changed, other than you are acting like an immature ass.
If I am your friend and I am also friends with someone you don't care for, deal with it on your own.
People are more important to me than clubs or ego games, so I take relationships pretty seriously.
Get used to it,as that is also how serious I will treat our relationship.
In closing, save your breath, quit throwing what amounts to spoiled tantrums and train. Isn't that
what brought us to the arts anyhow? So someone does a different silat than you, that speaks to him, as yours
speaks to you. Let it go, we all have enough work to do on ourselves.

Rory Miller seminar

2011-06-17T20:43:00.002-06:00

When where and all the info can be found here Rory's site.
If you are interested in getting some great training and meeting a great trainer, this is the place to be.
09JUL11 at Bob Orlando's school.
See you there!

Two, count 'em, two seminars coming up

2011-05-14T16:00:00.004-06:00

We have Jay Carstensen coming on June 11 to teach a short seminar, $20.00 for this one. Although we just found out today that Auraria might shut down the building in June. So we will keep posting info as we get it.

On Saturday July 9 from 1000 hrs - 1800 hrs Rory Miller will be doing a seminar at Bob Orlando's school in Lakewood, CO. I will link to Rory's event page when he posts it up and all details will be there. to find directions to Mr. Orlando's school go to Orlando Kuntao for all that information.
Both of these are great opportunities to learn from 2 of the best in the business.

Hello all, difficulties and learning

2011-04-19T19:43:00.002-06:00

Well, this place got dusty in my absence. It turns out that trying to do blogging from the mobile is possible, it is definitely a pain in the ass, and I find it impossible to load pictures that way.
So, because of this, and other reasons, I have been experimenting and made a few changes. I am now able to use the laptop to go online again, so I should be picking up on the posting here. Got a few reviews to do, a couple knives, a new sap, some articles that I have been working on.
There are some big changes going on with life, and associated things. Jay opened up a school for the KSMA, and I am looking forward to him coming out in June.
Probably going to change the links bar when I gather all the info I found in my sojourn into mobile living.
It's funny, when one thing starts to change, it seems to go in a wave, and when those changes become difficult, you really find out who your true friends are. I do know I am grateful for the ones who are still here.
Well guys, talk to you soon...

New Year new way of living

2011-01-23T16:45:00.001-07:00

Hello everybody. I hope the holidays were all they could have been for you.
Since the new year, things have changed and we are doing several things different in our lives. I will
post on them as it makes sense to. A couple things that have changed is how and where we live.
Some of you know we took a job managing an apartment complex. The thing that is way different is
the size of our place. We live in a small studio apartment and have started living an extremely minimalist
Lifestyle. It is amazing to see how little crap you really need in life. The other thing is being totally
mobile in communications. The phone is pretty much my go to for everything,talking, web, even posting to
Blogger. Looks like it is all working so far and is just the start of a way of lifelong I feel better about.

A new project, come to fruition

2010-12-07T19:20:00.003-07:00

Every year, I attend the Gathering of the Tribes over Memorial Day weekend.
This is an event of the KSMA, hosted by Chuck Pippin. Chuck also happens to be a gifted knife maker. Well, martial arts and knives are two things that I obviously
have a strong interest in, and how I make my living.
Chuck and I got together and worked on a design I had bouncing around in my head for awhile. A fixed blade designed for every day carry and use in an urban environment.
A fighter that doesn't look like a fighter, so to speak. Chuck really hit it out of the park when he made it for me. I was impressed enough that I showed it to my bosses at Boker. Lo and behold, they liked it as well. Liked it enough to put it into production, as a matter of fact. So, after much time and anticipation, I would like to present the TUF, originally meaning Tactical Utility Fighter, but through marketing it is now Terry's Urban Fixed Blade:TUF
Thanks for looking, and please, buy alot of them!!!

Tossing an idea back and forth, mentally...

2010-12-07T19:03:00.002-07:00

Lately, I have been doing a lot of writing, long hand on paper.
I have two separate tracks going. One is class materials, handbook, level material outlines to keep track of progress, the usual.
The other is more "esoteric" for lack of a better way of putting it. Through some discussion with Rory Miller and Marc MacYoung, I have started to write about reading people, places and situations in a way to keep yourself safe, and still enjoying the world. It has turned into a bigger thing than I expected. This has led to a question I would like to throw out to see what people think.
One of the precepts I am bringing out in this subject is awareness of self.
If you are not aware of yourself and your internal state, you cannot reliably read the real signals occurring around you. If you are angry, you can read frantic or scared as threatening, as an example.
So the question, in an adrenal state, how do you teach someone to access a"higher" state of internal awareness?
Any ideas? Am I trying to untangle a hairball that doesn't need it?

I'm like a proud Papa

2010-11-07T20:11:00.005-07:00

Last weekend was a celebration at Auraria Self Defense. First, it was the 2 year anniversary of me starting to teach there. But more importantly, I had the opportunity to recognize the hard work put in by my students. It is my honor to announce the promotion to Level One in Applied Self Defense Silat the following;
Troy Bernal, studied with me for 5 years+, and really brings out the best in those he trains with.
Raja Simha, great analytical ability and beginning to understand letting it flow.
He is also responsible for me teaching publicly.
Johnathon Colvin, even though he wants to be a cop, he is still the most improved.
Shawn Sneed, came in with alot of his own training, and heads the program, but has taken what he was given and made it his.
I also was able to induct Troy, Raja, and Johnny into the KSMA, so we have a branch here, in the birthplace of the organization.
A few pictures follow.

The time of my life

2010-11-01T07:59:00.001-06:00

I would like to say Happy 13th Anniversary to my wonderful wife. I love you Baby, and am grateful everyday we are together.

Interesting times???

2010-10-11T18:36:00.003-06:00

Went down to the college to teach this weekend, and it was turning into a really good class. I had given the guys an assignment to go to the hardware store with $15.00 to buy as many items that could be used for self defense as possible. We were engaged in the show and tell, discovering how devious I have turned them all when Jae's phone rang. It was one of the tenants in the apartment building we manage.
Some idiot had taken a hard left directly into the front of the building.
Now, there are no driveways in the immediate area, a bunch of parking meters, a big bike rack, and a fricking building, along with a bunch of kids at the fire fighter museum next door. Apparently Mr. Mini-van driver decided he was going to turn anyway.
Luckily, no one was hurt, the damage was mostly cosmetic, at least cosmetic enough we all weren't homeless.
The kicker was, the asshole didn't even apologize. His only comment to us, the people he could've made homeless, the owner of the bike shop on the first floor(who was in the window the jerk hit), and the rest of us was, "it was an accident".
The gall of some people...

Some random shots

2010-09-09T19:28:00.004-06:00

One thing I really enjoy is photography, both looking at good photography and taking pictures. Here are a few I have done, just for kicks;

Life is full of choices...

2010-09-08T18:23:00.002-06:00

Hello.
It has been a little over two months since I last posted anything here. It is not for lack of thought, or even material. It is simply because I have needed to prioritize some things, finish(or start) some others, and make choices about going forward in life. In the process of this, I have needed to decide what is important to me, who is important to me, and how to use the time I have effectively.
We have the choice to view our life the way we want, and there is enough bad going on to make the negative reclusive choice the seeming best one to make. But, after letting my self swim in that cesspool for awhile, I am done. I cannot make the world different. I cannot make it fair to those I love who are hurting, suffering, and wondering what is going to happen next. I cannot make events that happened go away as if they didn't. What I can do is choose to control my reactions, choose to be present now, instead of future or past oriented. There is plenty, good and bad, going on now. Instead of focusing on the crap I cannot fix, I will do the things I can, and deal with the other when I can. Some things cannot be fixed, changed, or ignored. So be it, but there are plenty of other things that can be enjoyed, cherished, and appreciated. That is my choice. A choice that leads to many others, but it is the first choice on the path I am taking.
Thanks!

Weirdness, life, et al...

2010-07-06T19:46:00.002-06:00

Ok, so, I think I will get a chance to get back to things. Organizing notes, making some articles, a review of the Gathering(awesome), stuff like that. But, my life is demanding more time right now. Things are settling, and maybe some new paths are opening, but for now, I am just trying to stay as sane as normal, and flow with the currents.
T

Bet you thought I forgot

2010-05-21T20:59:00.002-06:00

Things have been normal, which means scary to most people, and I had to lay off the blog for awhile. As you can tell from the last two posts, I was working through some things. Then, we moved, and it went well, love the new place. And finally, I got sick, again... pneumonia and bronchitis. But I've pretty much kicked it's ass now, and will be going to the Gathering next week in GR, MI. Very much looking forward to seeing my tribe again, and it is the 10th Anniversary Gathering!!
Hope all is well with everyone, and ttyl.

Scars

2010-03-26T21:00:00.003-06:00

Down here, you have to be aware of everything, words can mislead, ignorance can make you bleed.
Everybody has them, you just have to know where to look, and how to see. These ones, they're from riding the Horse too long, really bad times. This one, right here, taught me to watch their hands, always keep track of their damn hands. These show that even a Grandma will fight for her own, and some people use weapons, even if they're not fighters, when it is important enough. But these are surface, easy to spot, to some, they are a badge, to others, embarrassing. But look right here, can you see them? In the eyes. This one, this is when I lost my faith, when hope was killed. That one? It was when I realized how cheaply someone would sell me. The big one, right here, in the eyes, but so close to the heart, that is disillusionment, from finally seeing the world as it is, not what "they" say it is. That one never heals, sometimes it still weeps. But all of them are signs of growth, signs of strength.
Can you see them? Do you know where yours came from?

Sanctuary

2010-03-25T21:01:00.003-06:00

We are all here, runaways, thrown away, left alone so much, we ran away. Left to our own, left with our pain, hating those people, despising the game.
But we came together, we chose each other, the few, made our own families, started anew. We built our lives and made our homes, not with brick or stone.
In these walls, we are safe, we have time. We run to each other and hold one another.
We all have secrets, and hide some shame. But here, together, we are all the same. Equal with each other, share our burdens, and our joys.
In these walls, we have peace, In these walls, there is sanctuary.

Wild Weasel by Chuck Pippen

2010-01-12T19:50:00.003-07:00

Over the last few years, I have been very fortunate to have met some really good people, some of whom have become family to me. One of these people is Chuck Pippen, and if you look over in the links section, you will see a link to his school, Innovative Martial Arts, where he teaches a very effective, combative style, and where he hosts the annual Gathering of the Tribes. Right above that link, you will see one for something called Tribal Edge Knives, which is the name of Chucks knife making concern. A few years ago, Chuck took up knife making, and has really shined at it, and become one of the better custom knife makers I have known. He listens to your ideas, applies his knowledge of both knives and combatives to come up with a way to make your idea a steel reality. As I mentioned, Chuck hosts the annual Gathering of the Tribes for the KSMA. In 2007, I was asked to teach a class for the Gathering, and I taught a quick section on Reverse Grip Edge In knife work. For more info on this, I did a post titled "Pikal, or why I'm a backwards knifer", it's in the archives, if your interested. Based on this class, Chuck gifted me with a knife based on RGEI when I went to the Gathering this past spring. The name of the knife, as you may have guessed is the Wild Weasel, or Weasel for short. I'm sure even Bobbe can figure out why the name...
This knife is beautiful, hands down, one of the prettiest knives I have ever owned.
It has a rustic look, which I think really adds to the charm. Especially in a world where tactical still seems to mean black. It is also one of the few knives Chuck has used man made materials for the handle, specifically, a desert coyote Canvas Micarta.
For the user of a defensive knife, nothing is more important than the handle. As the late Bob Kasper stated, the knife is the user interface, and needs to be comfortable and secure. The pinky catch, and the choil on this knife lock it into your hand, no matter if you are performing in Pikal or Sac-Sac grip. The shape of the handle itself conforms to your hand, and does not roll, nor does it have any hot spots. You could use this knife for hours, and I doubt a blister would think of forming. It is smooth as a river rock, once again, one of the most comfortable knives I have had the honor of using. The edge is sharpened the opposite of a normal knife, to optimize it's use in the unorthodox manner I promote, but it has a little sharpened swedge to be able to rip, ease penetration, or perform startle cuts.
The angle and curvature of the blade align it directly with the knuckles, which provides excellent indexing for the thrust/jab, and instant knowledge of edge awareness.
In practice, this knife is quick out of the sheath, as needs be for a defensive knife, and points straight to the target. Hooking is a breeze due to the curvature of the blade, which is not excessive, but enough to get a good shearing cut.
All in all, this is my favorite RGEI knife I have ever handled, and am honored to have been the inspiration behind it, and to have received it.
Thanks Chuck! And BTW, pay attention to further knife news regarding Chuck and I in the upcoming months...

How far down the rabbit hole

2010-01-05T19:54:00.002-07:00

When I started studying and training, it was for a very simple reason. I wanted to not get my ass kicked, and, honestly, to kick the ass of those who I felt needed it.
Due to experience, and some helpful influence, I realized there was alot more to this stuff. Fist fighting was helpful, but all of the sudden, I was around people who were using knives, and other weapons. Well, I knew I needed to figure that one out, and thus began a new part of the journey. Well, along with this, I have always been a history buff, and interested in the odder side of things. So it can't be too much of a stretch to imagine I started drawing parallels between my situation, and earlier events and people, and started adding new skill sets. Seeing as the closest correlation I can see for self defense is covert work, such as the OSS in WWII, or the Home Guard type units, I started looking into those areas. A whole new world opened for me... E&E, tactical medicine, survival, urban survival(not the same, at all), all types of strangeness. Some things just started as interesting hobbies, like knot work, but they come in handy in other areas, also. This growing interest led to better tools, like the infamous LaGriffe, and other "covert, hide-out" implements.
Along the way, I met some very awesome people, who instructed me in better ways of moving, and integrating all of the skills into an organic whole, which has become a lifestyle, as Den Martin says, it is the "Tactical Lifestyle"
As you delve into this, you begin to see that it is as much a mental game,if not more so than a purely physical one. So the trail leads you to mindset, states of conciousness, NLP, etc... Then, you hear about OODA loops, Hicks law, decision trees, optimal states, and the learning continues.
How far do you want this path to take you? It can last a lifetime, and lead to some very cool things.

WTF is wrong with people

2009-11-29T17:34:00.003-07:00

Black Friday came and went, and here, in the Denver area, an 80ish year old lady was injured during a fight over a spot in line at the local, posh, shopping resort not mall, it is so yuppified, that it is a resort.
Remember last year, a guard was trampled to death in a WalMart. I find this all greatly disheartening, and it put me in somewhat a funk over the last couple days.

You know what, it is not gifts, or money, or possesions that are important.
It is the people in our lives that have meaning.
There are a few people who bring this to life for me.
Jae, nothing would be without you, not me, not anything. It is dark and difficult now, but it is all the better for you being here, shining.
Marc, you have done a lot, but mostly you just are, and let me be me. I am grateful however, and for better or worse, you are responsible.
Don and Ken, man, what can I say. You are the family I need when I need it, the friends all wish they could have. You have walked some hard miles with me over the last years, and helped me grow, and to wise up. Nothing else wraps it up better than thank you.
Bobbe, I can't say it enough, but I won't say it here, other than, it has been interesting, hasn't it. We have grown together, and have been there through the
storms. The winds still blow, but at least it doesn't suck.
There are others, Jay, Chuck, the rest of the clan, but for now, thank you all.

Reworking of an old post

2009-11-29T17:26:00.002-07:00

In response to some questions as to what knife, or other tool should I buy,
I reworked this post from a couple years ago.

Alright, for those of you who know me, you know I am a proponent of armed
self defense, and the proper use of tools for the job at hand, whether that be in a self
defense, survival, or work situation. And given that the martial arts I study are, at the
very least, weapons intensive, I thought it was time to revise and add some information
to the various postings I have made here and elsewhere on the web.
The first thing to consider is what you carry and why. Have you thought through the
choices available, tried various options of carrying your chosen tools, and actually practiced accessing your tool under a stressful situation, or simulation thereof? The late Bob Kasper
had a drill I would highly recommend for finding out if you can act in time to draw your
weapon. Dress in your normal manner, and have your training partner slap at your
head aggressively while you try to fend him off and access and deploy your knife. This
could be done with any weapon or tool, and in various modes of dress. I was shocked the first time I tried this in winter clothing. Better to learn it then, in training, than on the street for real.
The choices available now in knives, guns, flashlights, and various impact weapons are truly amazing, and honestly, somewhat unneccesary. All the new supersteels are mostly marketing hype, to be truthful about it. The averager user of a knife will not notice a whit of difference between VG-10, CPM S30V, or most other steels. The designs available are there for one reason; to entice you by how it looks. For some designers and companies, it actually is important that it function, but the majority of knives sold are what I term charming cheapies,
and are solely made for looks, with performance a far afterthought, if at all. And above all, mostly irrelevant for most self defense encounters. In the end, you need a reliable lock, a sharp
edge, and a point for knife work. Now remember, I got my first job in the knife industry 8
years ago, selling them, and have been full time in the knife industry for over 3 years now.
I do not say any of this lightly, as I do buy, use, carry & collect knives of all types. But if your focus is for survival and self defense, and money is a concern, as it is for most of us, do not be intimidated or conned in to thinking you need a $300 fighting knife, when a $40 one is just as good for your needs. Only you can decide that, and you should educate yourself, and get what you think is the best for YOU, not what the magazines, salesmen, steel snobs, and theorists
try to push off on you.
The next thing to consider is what your threat status is, and what you should carry to address that. This is a very controversial subject, especially in the online SD/knife world. I have been known to carry more blades than a combine, to steal an off handed compliment I was given once.
I did this for various reasons, most of which do not apply to me anymore, so I changed my carry
routine. I no longer work or live in an area where I know violence will happen. I have a normalish life now, and for that reason, I can amp down on the poundage of steel, leather and lead. Take as much time to honestly evaluate your risk as you spend picking your carry pieces.
You should also learn the laws concerning carry where you live and work, as they may be different if you move between municipalities often. Even if you have no intention of obeying the
laws, it is better to know what they are then being ignorant and leaving your future to luck
and chance.
Now, there are people who will say that this BS, steel is important, yada yada yada...
Look, what is important is, what feels good to you, fits your hand, and your environment. Legalities are up to you to learn, as they vary too much, sometimes from county to county. In all honesty, and after years of disappointment, the best way is to go and play with a bunch of them. Go to a gun show, knife store, whatever, and start touching, squeezing, and otherwise knifesturbating them, that is the only way to find style your knife.
Don't worry about what other people have, think or say. In the end, you will find the perfect one, and it will be yours.

An update before a (hopeful) flurry of posts...

2009-11-25T18:55:00.002-07:00

...over the weekend.
It has been a weird almost two months since I last posted.
Got sick, Jae got sick, and now I ave a hernia and strained back muscles.
Work has been crazy, but there has been some good developments there.
I have some reviews written, a couple articles(including the how to buy a knife one), and an odd post or two
to put up here over the Thanksgiving weekend.
To everyone, American or not, have a great Thanksgiving, because if you can read this,
you have something to be thankful for, namely having more than the majority of the world.

It's October

2009-10-01T07:34:00.003-06:00

As we are now in the month I look forward to every year, I always sit back, and remember. It is the start of a new year personally, as I feel autumn is a better time to begin, as opposed to winter.
Remembering all those who came before, all that has happened, and all that can happen in the coming months.

It's October, and I'm happy as can be.
There is a crisp chill in the air, leaves are turning, and the sun is starting it's resting time, sleeping later, turning in earlier.

It's October, and we made it.

Interested in training with Rory Miller?

2009-08-21T20:00:00.002-06:00

I've mentioned Rory Miller here a few times, way more in real life.
He has been on a contract in the Middle East for the last year, and posted
that he is coming home.
He also posted that he is thinking about teaching, doing privates, and seminars.
If you're interested, click the link in the list to the right, or
click

here

Great group, very worthy cause

2009-08-21T19:39:00.002-06:00

I'm posting this because I think it is a great thing to be doing.
If you can, support this. If your near one of the seminars, attend, you will
learn some of the best self protection skills ever.
==============================
The first International Senshido Charity Event is coming up quick, September 26th is right around the corner and we would sincerely appreciate anyone and everyone's help in promoting this worldwide event for us. All the proceeds for this event will be given to local charities.

The Montreal, Canada Senshido Fundamentals of Personal Protection seminar on September 26th 2009 from 12 to 6pm income will be given to the Welcome Hall Mission/Mission Bon Accueil located in Montreal, Quebec(the Children's division) & will be held at Leriken Functional Fitness (formerly the Senshido school) at 680 St. Catherine Street west, 1st floor, Montreal, Quebec.

9 Countries/10 Cities participating and contact information for details, info and costs for each:

The Senshido International Team:

Montreal, Canada: Richard Dimitri - rdimitri@senshido.com

Tampere, Finland: Ville Kaivonen - Contact vka@sci.fi

Mexico City, Mexico: Ian Hodgkinson - vampiro@me.com

Sheffield, England: Craig and Debbie Welsh - info@kapapsheffield.co.uk & Adam Cooper - adamcooper123@hotmail.co.uk

Beirut, Lebanon: Georges Fahmy - georgesfahmy@gmail.com

Tucson Arizona, USA: Dominic Alexander - juslearnin1@hotmail.com, Tara Burke - patches9@gmail.com & Dusty Alexander - dustyalexander@gmail.com

Washington DC, USA: Glenn Wilson - goldeneyemartialarts@yahoo.com

Liege, Belgium: Rod Fiardi - rodolphe.fiardi@yahoo.fr or rodpersonalprotection@yahoo.fr

Sydney, Australia: Dominic O'Neil - dominic@rollersaustralia.com.au

Aukland, New Zeland - Phil & Athena Thompson - admin@protectselfdefence.co.nz

We would most sincerely appreciate it if you could share this info on your blogs, facebook pages, forums, websites, etc. without spamming of course... every bit of help counts as we aim to collectively donate over $20,000 to local charities worldwide. If this event is successful, we shall be holding it annually and as our team grows, so will the donations to the charities and so will be helping thousands worldwide.

All charities have been checked so please don't use the excuse that charities never give the money where it is suppose to go, although this is widely true, it isn't of every charity and the ones specifically chosen by the team were chosen carefully and with good conscience.

Thanking you in advance for your help.

The Senshido International Team

He's baaack

2009-08-06T18:50:00.005-06:00

For those who have been wondering where the Godzilla of combative arts has been,
Amo Guro Michael Blackgrave has a new website, to go with his newly minted
teaching vehicle. Check out

this

as he already has a couple articles, a video, and a great explanation of his methodology.
Welcome back, Mikey.

Happy Birthday

2009-07-26T19:18:00.001-06:00

Just needed to post Happy Birthday wishes to the best person ever in my life, my wife.
Jae, I love you, and wish all the best for you.
It may be your birthday, but I am the one who received the best gift.

Hubud Lubud, my basic understanding

2009-07-17T20:19:00.002-06:00

Hubud Lubud; To tie and untie (loosely translated from Tagalog)
Almost exclusively taught as a sensitivity drill in Filipino Martial Arts.
===========================

Since working Hubud, and making it a cornerstone of my training, it has revealed itself as a multifaceted exercise, with three main areas:
Attribute building
Strategic overview and
Tactical application

For building fighting attributes, Hubud is a great expandable drill.
In its most basic form, it teaches; threat recognition, sensitivity, timing,
flow, and transition. Since it consists of three fairly Gross Motor Movements,
once learned, it gives a good base of defensive responses. It is also modular,
meaning, it does not teach in a by rote fashion. Each piece of the drill performs
a good defensive action to aggressive attacks.
You can also work Hubud to practice other techniques. Start Hubud with your training partner, and after a few rounds, start throwing in guntings, limb destructions, insertion shots, or low kicks, etc.
Or use Hubud as a moving base to start training techniques from a moving base.
The best attributes this drill imparts are sensitivity and flow. Varying the intensity of the drill, as well as the timing, teaches one to feel the attack, and respond as required, not as you may have planned.
All of the above is directly related to flow, or moving in the most beneficial manner to effectively accomplish your goal. Getting well versed in sensitivity and flow leads to real skill in trapping, skill that can be done real time, instead of just for show. And finally, as we progress through Hubud, we can use to build attributes in things such as knife and short weapon work.

The strategic overview that comes from Hubud Lubud is keeping your center and exploiting the center of your opponent. Every move covers and protects your center line, and opens and clears your attackers center line.

Tactically, Hubud provides an "immediate action drill" which provides three means of defense and offense in one logical progression. Each movement can be performed as a stand alone defense, if you are able to follow it with an immediate counter attack. But when performed in a synergistic manner, as a whole, it works wonderfully, providing defense, mobility, offense, flow, and an opening into your opponents center.

Each of the three motions in Hubud can be applied in both an offensive or defensive capability, as needed. In other words, the first motion, which appears in the drill as a rising deflection/block, is very effective at this purpose. But, with a difference in range and intent, it could also be an effective blow, such as a forearm upper cut to the throat/jaw area.
To borrow a great bit of terminology from Kuntao Silat instructor Bob Orlando, they can be applied in either block mode, or in strike mode.

Finally, when you add in the switches, it leads to a form of fighting ambidexterousness. Practicing Hubud will not teach you to write with both hands, but it will expand your options in combat, by letting either side to perform the action needed, without getting in each others way.

Important knife law information

2009-06-11T09:28:00.001-06:00

Please read this and act on it.

Breaking News: We have received word that U.S. Customs & Border Protection has DENIED the numerous requests for extension that it had received and is planning to stick with the June 21 deadline for comments.

CBP's denial of an extension seems to be a clear indication that they do not intend to act in a fair and reasonable manner on this issue and have already made their decision to go ahead. That means we have to set the stage for the next act, which will likely be conducted both in court and in Congress. The battle is far from over, your comments will play a role in both efforts.

Knife Rights is developing a new comments letter for concerned knife owners to send to CBP and a strong email to send to Members of Congress. We are not about to roll over for this clearly out-of-control government agency.

NOTE: we have disabled the links to Model Letters as we rewrite them in light of Custom's denial of our request for extension.

Please click here to be added to our email list (customs@Kniferights.org) so we can keep you advised.

U.S. Customs & Border Protection (CBP) has proposed revoking earlier rulings that assisted opening knives are not switchblades. The proposed new rule would not only outlaw assisted opening knives, its broad definition of a switchblade would also include one-handed opening knives and could be easily interpreted to cover most other pocket knives, even simple old-fashioned slip-joints.

Note that CBP's interpretation of the Federal Switchblade Act forms the basis for national, state and even local law and judicial rulings in many cases. This ruling by CBP is NOT limited to just imports. This WILL affect virtually everyone who carries a pocket knife, no matter the type!

Download the 63 page CPB document and read it for yourself.

Knife Rights has sent a letter to CBP requesting an extension to the ridiculously short 30-day comment period. We need your help to make an impression on CBP. They figured that they could slip this by everyone with little notice. We need to let CBP know that they are not going to get away with it; that we noticed and we are not happy and that we will not stand by while they take away our pocket knives.

We are in for the fight of our lives. We need you to write CBP NOW!

Click here for a Model Letter you can send to CBP.

However, the reality is that CBP isn't required to listen to our demands, but they do have to answer to Congress. After you send a letter to CBP, giving them notice they are not going to sneak this by us, the next step is to inundate Congress with emails and letters.

If you want to be free to carry your pocket knives in the future, you need to write your Senators and Representative TODAY!

Click here for a Model Letter you can send to Members of Congress.

We have also prepared a Communicating with Congress page that includes tips to maximize the effect of your letters. This page was developed after consultation with experts who understand exactly how to get your message across to Members of Congress. We have also included easy links to find your Representatives, if you don't know who they are or the best way to reach them. How much of an impact your communication has can be significantly impacted by how and what you write. Our aim is to help maximize your impact so your Members of Congress actually listen and do something. PLEASE, take a few minutes to review our Communicating with Congress page BEFORE you act.

Knife Rights was formed three years ago because we knew it was only a matter of time before something like this would happen that would threaten to take away our right to own and carry our knives. Well, that time is now and we're working to help keep our essential tools and essential rights. We cannot do it without your help. Knife Rights is only as powerful as the forces we can bring to bear. You are the only truly effective weapon we have. Policitcans only listen to voters. NOW IS YOUR TIME TO ACT!

Because you are sending a hard copy letter and emails via Members' web forms, we won't know you did it unless you let us know. It is critical that we be able to know how many have responded, so please click here to send us an email (customs@Kniferights.org) to let us know you've sent the letter and emails.

WRITE Customs NOW!
WRITE your Members of Congress NOW!
Join Knife Rights and help support the fight to keep your Knife Rights!

Copyright 2009, Knife Rights, Inc.
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The Gathering '09, my view

2009-06-06T18:45:00.002-06:00

OK, I have put this off long enough, and Jay, Chuck, and Buzz have posted their
Gathering posts, so, off we go into my memories of this Gathering of the Tribes, v. 2009. But first, a quick word. If you are going to come on here, and post something
about people who were not present at the Gathering, do it under your name. I will not post anonymous comments. Either be an adult, and take responsibility for your words, or STFU. I don't have time for cowards, or shit-stirrers. So, onwards and upwards.

Raja and I got into Grand Rapids(yeah, I know) at midnight Thurs/Friday, and Chuck
Pippen was cool enough to come get us, and put us up for the entire time we were there. This is the most important thing about the Gathering to understand, it is about tribe, family, taking care of each other, and it is personified in how Chuck & Jeanne open their home to all of us reprobates every year.
Friday was spent admiring the knife Chuck made for me, based on the first class I taught in 2007. Keep an eye out for my review of the Weasel, coming soon. We went to breakfast at IHOP, with Mel Hebert, who is a Rossi Kuntao player, and a damn good one. Also at breakfast, and staying at Casa Gathering was Geoffery Bossman, who is
a long time practitioner of various SE Asian arts. Pretty talented as well.
So far, it was a good group of people. We spent the rest of the day bs'ing, playing, getting to know each other, and greeting the fellow travellers as they came in. It really is like coming home to recharge, especially when you get to see the family you have chosen after a long interval. Buddha came in, and it is always great to see him, and we talked for a long while. Then, the Jayman showed up with his entourage. Now the fun was beginning, in earnest. Jay is just one of those people who I hit it off with the first time we spoke, and it has grown from there.
He also brought Carl Ross, who I had heard so much about, and was finally able to meet him. Hey Carl, I hope you find the other half of that job soon, brother.
More eating, this time at a nice Irish Pub, and really getting to talk with Ian, who drove Raj and I there. Ian is an amazingly talented smith and knifemaker, and funny as hell, to boot. As always, somehow, we always manage to stay up til the most ungodly of hours, and the fun just keeps going.

Saturday comes, and, as is the tradition, Jeanne made a wonderful breakfast, and then the training begins. At a Gathering, you can take whatever classes you want, for as long as you want, kind of like a buffet of mayhem. Well, Saturday morning, the table gets set. This year, all of the returning instructors taught on the first day, noobs, the second. Well, nobody is more of a returning instructor then Chuck and Don, so they were first up. Great class on entries against a commited knife attack. Got the blood pumping, the forearms clashing, and some very good, usable
stuff, when the pointy end is trying to enter you.
Then came one of the classes I was waiting for, Jay Carstensen. He is KSMA. Do not let this guy fool you, he knows his stuff. Although he did not teach a repeat ninjutsu class this year, I was still happy. He taught a variant on medio sumbrada, and translations to knife and empty hand. I personally picked up a lot from this, and everyone was rocking along with it, despite the mosquitos best efforts.
After Jay, came the man who is the king, no the KING of treachery, Guro Buzz Smith, of Maharlika Kuntaw. If there is a tricky way to do something, he will teach it in his Bugtongan class. A man after my own heart, I must say. The best part of the class, aside from the angling, was the foot stuffing session. But I guess you'd a had to be there...
Next, it was my turn. I must say, I did better this time, and Raja was the best assistant I could have hoped for. But Raj, sorry about the eye.
After my class, it was Sterling and Dans turn for PSP. They worked on the Ales from that system, and did a great job.
At the end of their class, Jay and Chuck present formal Declarations of Brotherhood for the KSMA. I am proud to have received one, along with Don Young, and Carl Ross.
It's like coming home, and not being a martial outlaw any longer.
That was the end of formal training for the day. But, as always, training always goes on. One of the most oft heard phrases of a Gathering, "Hey, what about this?"
or "How do you...". Great times, and a great dinner, set up in potluck manner.
Once again, much laughing, talking, sharing, more goofing, and lots of pics.
Sunday, as stated prior, was noob day, and they were all great.
Craig Gray taught some effective handgun disarms from Krav Maga, after starting with some Chi Kung work. These were probably among the most realistic ones I have seen, and provided another glimpse of the reality you might face.
Then we all convened in the dojo, for Nick Gutschow, and Silat Sharef groundwork. I wish I could give a first hand report on the movement, but I and all the other old guys sat and watched. It was some good, old fashioned, hard floor work, and definately a young mans game. But, Nick is impressive as hell, and moves like a
lizard on greased glass. It was spooky.
Then came Mel... sounds like a song, huh. He did boxing meets Kuntao, and did it in a wonderful, high energy, and very applicable manner.
This was truly the end of the formal training, and a huge amount of info was given out, with no ego, no holding back. If only all "martial artists" could be so cool, and generous...
More food, fun, laughing, show and tell, man, I wish it could happen all the time.
Thank you so much to Jeanne and Chuck, for the hospitality. Thank you to the Tribe, for the great time. Thank you to Sterling, for interviewing me for his podcast show, and thanks to everyone, we'll be back next year.
Oh yeah, next year is the big 10th for the Gathering, good times, man, good times.

Happy Birthday

2009-05-06T19:24:00.002-06:00

Hey, Jayman, Happy Birthday!!!
Be seeing you in a couple weeks, be ready for a late Guiness!

Nice pics

2009-03-10T21:16:00.007-06:00

New review

2009-03-10T21:06:00.002-06:00

Jeff Crowner Mini-Korambit

Being both a Silat player, and having a great appreciation for nice edged tools, I am always on the lookout for good, new blades. Particularly ones that are an intrinsic piece of the silat arts. One of the most available Indonesian style blades are kerambits, also spelled korambit, kerumpit, et. al.
Quite frankly, most kerambits offered up for sale today have missed the mark. It takes more than a finger ring to make a kerambit. Kerambits made or designed by actual silat practitioners are even harder to find, and ones that really speak to me are one in a million. Luckily, through some networking, I was able to receive a kerambit designed and handmade by someone who understands what makes a kerambit unique. We can speak all day of the angle of the curve, "rear brakes", ripper teeth, etc, but when all is said and done, what counts is very few, but all important.
Does the kerambit move, does it fit your hand, so when you pass and hook, you instinctively know where the point, hook, or ring are? Does the handle fill your hand, without being to thick and unwieldy? Does it have an edge that will cut, yet with enough tooth to allow hooking, guiding, or shielding?

The kerambit I received was from Mr Jeff Crowner, from the Northwest US. After some emails and conversation, he was kind enough to send me one, and I have been running it for several months. Every time I thought I had enough to write this review, I would discover more about it, and think I would be short selling this wonderful piece of equipment. So, I decided I needed to write this now, even though I doubt I can do it justice. I have some pictures that Mr. Crowner had sent me, of his kerambits, and some of his other work, and I will include some of them here. In a future article, I will have pictures of the one he sent me, and some sequences, showing how well it works, and moves as you are doing silat. Unfortunately, with this new computer, I cannot figure out how to load my own pictures into it yet.

First, what to me is a very important consideration. With the way the world is going, and how tight money is, I believe in doing as much business with people who have morals and heart as much as possible. Mr. Crowner is a man like this. I have rarely talked with someone with as much care for his craft, and concern for others as he. If you are going to spend some of your hard earned cash on a great piece of steel, he most assuredly deserves your business.

Okay, on to the kerambit. It is on the small side, as the name mini-korambit implies. It is very close to the size of the authentic Indonesian kerambits I have been able to see and play with. Where this one parts company with the native versions is in it's stoutness. This thing is a mini-monster. It is one piece construction, with black micarta scales, and no rough edges anywhere. I love the thickness of it, it is 1/4" thick through the spine, with the ring at slightly over 1 1/2" inner diameter.
This gives it an astounding amount of strength. This thing will not break on you, no matter what you do with it. As a fist load, it packs sufficient strength to do what it needs to do. The blade is double edged, which I love, with a subtle curve that is enough for hooking, but remains a very efficient cutter when you need it to be. Both edes come in at 2", and the blade itself is chisel ground, with the grinds on the outside or obverse side of the blade. Mr. Crowner also provides a nice Kydex sheath with the kerambit, and it works well for on the belt carry, which is good for most of his customers, who are mostly servicemen. For me, being a civilian in the urban area, and the way I was taught to use a kerambit, which is as a stealth weapon, I made a nice little leather slip sheath that fits in the pocket. Witht his set up, this kerambit comes into play very fast. One of the most important considerations on the angle of the blade on a kerambit is will it hinder the draw by being too hooked. This one is just right, it hooks enough to scoop, trap, and rip, but is not so extreme that it catches on the draw. This is just another example of the attention to detail that went into the design, and the construction of this piece. Overall length is about 6", from ring to tip, trying to account for the curve.
All in all, I cannot recommend this kerambit enough. Handmade, with care, and built for silat, and to be used, not collected, or spun for fun, this is one of the best knives I have had the pleasure of owning using, and training with in a long time.
Thanks for reading.

A post script; I just received this from Mr. Crowner, and thought it should be posted witht he review:
...I tried my best to over design the Mini Korambit for the Military and Silat person in mind...Many people that train with blades have never tried to test them with their Silat movement while cutting targets like flesh and bone...To go further many have never tried to cut something while the target is moving...My mentor Wayne Goddard taught me one thing...Test and retest the blades you make like the fashion you are to use them....I took time and bought meat with bones, Chicken...etc...I tested blades on materials like this...The last thing a blade maker wants is to make something, send it to a customer and then it break on the first use...I am a firm believer is heat treat as the spirit of the steel...I would personally favor a so called inferior steel with a superior heat treat then a superior steel with and inferior heat treat. I take a really long time in my testing and retesting...For example, the heat treat I did on the Korambit you have used for testing has the following heat treat sequence with L-6:
Hand forged, normalized, ground to flat, profiled and blade grind, normalized after heavy material removal with the bevel grind, edge quench, 2x2hours at 375 temper, blue back draw on spine in blade area...Then finally a soft ble draw on the tip. What this does for the tip is keep it from cracking or beaking...It might bent a little but never break...A superior heat treated blade...God Bless....Jeff Crowner

Required reading

2009-01-19T20:10:00.002-07:00

Since I have started teaching, I am putting together a required reading list for the students. Here is what I have so far, what would you add?
======================================
Violence, Blunders & Fractured Jaws, Marc MacYoung
Ending Violence Quickly, Marc MacYoung
Taking it to the Streets, Marc MacYoung(yours truly in the pictures)
Real Fighting, Peyton Quinn
Meditations on Violence, Sgt. Rory Miller
Don Rearic dot com
Indonesian Fighting Fundamentals, Bob Orlando
Real World Self Defense, Jerry Van Cook

There are others, but I haven't decided on the importance yet.

Teaching, learning, and a recommendation

2009-01-19T19:18:00.006-07:00

It has been a really good time so far this new year. Not without its challenges, and moments that would test the patience of a saint, but a time of growth, maturing, and having old blinders taken off.
One thing that has been very interesting, I have been teaching. I started teaching one guy in my apartment. That grew in to 3 people. Kind of crowded in our "small" place, but doable. Now, through Rajas' contacts, we are having a weekly class at Auraria campus, with 5 people. Quite a bit of growth, in a short amount of time.
One of the students is so into this, that she also books one private a week, and I love to see someone pursue this so much, with so much attention.
When you teach, you always want to make sure you are teaching to the student, and the level they understand the reality of this huge subject. If you teach for your ego, or just for what you want, it is a giant dis-service to the people who choose to train with you. We are starting slow, learning how to chain motion efficiently, covering our openings, and entering. The greatest tools that we have been using are Badan Dasar, Hubud, the corridas, and Draw the Bow and Spin the Wheel.
It is interesting to see how each student takes the info, and works with it. It definately shows the mental place each comes from. It will take a while, but these kids are good, and learning at their own pace, but relatively quickly. I am proud to be a part of this.
===============================
Got one of the best books I have read in a while this weekend. I have finished the first read through, and am going through it again, with a highlighter, and a notebook. It has been a while since any book has done that for me.
So, what is this book, you may ask.
Meditations on Violence, by Sgt. Rory Miller. It had been recommended to me by a couple people I respect, and I finally broke down and bought it.
I am serious folks, save your pennies and buy this. If you train martial arts for self defense, or teach for the purpose of self defense, you need this book. It cuts through the crap, and lays it out there. Since the recommendations, I have started reading Sgt. Millers blog, and I must say, it is captivating. You can see a link over in the link bar. Do yourself a favor, and start reading it, and buy the book.
Get it here:

Meditations on Violence

Please, get it.
Thanks, Terry

Bobbe ...

2009-01-08T11:39:00.001-07:00

Bobbe Edmonds, beer Nazi, writer, Silat/Kali teacher, and one of the
Brothers, is going under the knife for his back, looks like sometime today,
if it hasn't already happened.
Keep a thought for him, pray, or whatever you do, please.

Hello everybody...

2008-12-18T19:06:00.002-07:00

Guess what, I'm home... or at least back with a computer, and able to post.
3 more working days, and the Christmas rush is over. That means life will return to its normal level of craziness.
Loaded up the booth for the SHOT Show yesterday, which is some very heavy stuff, so I am going to go rest my back, which the cold is not helping, either.
Hope all is well for everyone.
T

No computer means no posting

2008-11-16T14:56:00.002-07:00

Hey everyone, I'm sitting here at a cyber-cafe as I type this.
Why? Because my home computer crashed. Thanks to a great friend, I should have it back soon, but til then, I will keep in touch the best I can.
T

My position, abortion, rights in general

2008-11-08T18:49:00.002-07:00

After some wide ranging discussion with some people who read my last post, I think I should clarify some things. I am not a fan of abortion at all, and for the most part, think it is wrong, and unnecessary, considering medical advancements we have made in the last few decades. But, it is not my place to impose my morality, through government force, on anyone. People have to make their own choices, and they also have to live with the consequences of their choices. There are also medical situations that I can see where an abortion may be a viable option, if not the only choice. So, if you want to classify me in modern political speech, I would be pro-choice/anti-abortion. Quite a dichotomy, eh? It is not as big a twist as you may think. An individual has one right from which all others come from, and that is the right to make the choices he/she sees fit. The minute you try to regulate any one choice, you are infringing on the rights of all. After all, your choice may be the next to be infringed. In my world, rights are inviolable, even if I don't agree with how those rights are used. It is not left to me to judge, that is left to God. I just make the best choices I can, with the intellect and spirit I have been given, and know that I will be judged on those. I expect no more, and no less from everyone else.
Clear things up better?

STFU Already

2008-11-05T20:15:00.002-07:00

Well, that didn't take long.
The election is not even 24 hours in the past, and the Republicans are whining
about all the reasons they got beat, and not realizing why they really lost.

Do you want to know why you lost, Mr. & Mrs. Republican...
Look in a damn mirror. You, from this joke of a president, the lamest of lame ducks,
to this idiotic "Joe the Plumber", to you, and me, as I had a hand in this, because I, too,
voted for George W. Bush once. It is your own damn fault this occured, and you need to realize it,
and fix what went wrong before you deserve another shot at getting this countrys' trust back.
I have never seen such a betrayal of core principles, and such blatant manipulation of fears
and abuse of power then with this party leadership, and everyone of you that followed it deserve
to live with what your party did, and became.
What betrayal, you might ask. What is the core principle of Conservatism?
To be left alone, to rise or fall on your own, and to be fiscally responsible.
What has happened to the "modern conservative movement"?
This party has engineered the biggest transfer of wealth, from us, to greedy, selfish businesses,
in history. Instead of putting strictures on this, it is open ended, and being made up on the fly.
How the hell is this fiscally responsible??? And where is the personal accountability for the CEOs
and others? I guess we have to wait til they get back from the spa treatments, and spending their bonuses
before we find out if they will take responsibility or not, eh?
On down the line, every step of the way, every leader this party has, both politically, and culturally, have turned
Conservatism into a joke, and they continue to.
A few examples...
Rush Limbaugh( best described by my Brother, Don, as a pompous assbag), Shawn Hannity, Bill O'Reilly,
and a host of other radio & TV personalities lying, not calling its own leadership to task, and being nothing but the worst kind
of populist propagandists. "Oh, it's fine to loot the Treasury to bail out some millionaire, but it's 'Socialism' to provide health care
for poor people!" is but one example

George Bush, and the Republican Congress spending more money than all other Presidents combined, and leaving it for future
generations, to pay for.

Fighting a war that was not needed. The facts are in folks, Iraq had nothing to do with 9-11, even the Commander-Guy said so,
and every reason they gave has been proved, at best, an exaggeration, and mostly, a batch of lies.

Torturing innocent people, admitting they are innocent, but refusing to release them, even though it is admitted that there are no charges
to be brought... this is respect for life? This is protecting us?

Cronyism run rampant. Michael "Brownie" Brown is the best example, but this administration is rife with it, from him, to Harriet Miers,
to Julie Myers, not a one of them had any experience for the jobs they were given. But they seemed to have the one thing George valued most,
not critical thinking skills, not common sense, but a personal loyalty to him, and a big Republican contributor in the family.

Using fear to control & divide the populace. Whether it is news of some losers "training" to attack a military base, to fear of someones religion, color,
or choice of lifestyle, it all points to not having anything to offer the public, so make them scared, and they will beg us to make them safe. And it worked for awhile.
But not anymore.

Divide and conquer. Using wedge issues to divide people, and using the resulting friction and gridlock to do what you want. Abortion... it is not a thing to recommend, but it is none of your
business if someone has one. Are you against abortion, don't have one, and help people so they don't have to have one. Don't like gay people? Don't be one, but leave them alone, and they will
leave you alone. Scared of Muslims? Talk to one, not all are fanatics, and you may make a friend, or you might find that you don't like them, but they are just people like the rest of us.
Religion, and the so-called war on religion. You know what, I don't care, and neither should you. Religion is personal, and should stay that way. Live your life, and let others live theirs. If you
are right, you will get your reward, if someone else is right, they will get theirs, but it doesn't effect life here.

The ultimate betrayal of Conservatism. Government should never be used to push a private, moral, or religous agenda. A Conservative believes in letting each person choose their own way,
and suffer the consequences of those choices. A Conservative helps people, because he may need help himself. A Conservative defends the rights of others, because they are his rights as well.
If you allow anothers rights to be squashed, yours are next in line. But most of all, a Conservative believes in doing right, because it is right, not winning at all costs, not lying, and not cheating
to get his way. They do not loot, they do not violate the Constitution, and they do not, above all else, intrude in the private life of others.

None of this is meant to imply that Democrats are blameless, by any stretch of the imagination. But, as someone who leans more conservative than not, I am angry about my beliefs being betrayed.
And worse, I am furious at the lack of personal responsibility that people calling themselves conservatives are exhibiting now.
It is because of these reasons, and more, that you lost us, and this election.
It is high time for some deep introspection in the conservative movement.
STFU already, you have enough problems to deal with.

President-Elect Obama...wow

2008-11-05T19:18:00.000-07:00

Well, we did something in this country that seemed, for many years, to be, at best,
unlikely, and in reality, impossible for much of my life. My country elected an African-American
as our President.
Congratulations, Mr. Obama. I hope everyone who voted for you will do the hardwork you spoke of
during your acceptance speech.
I definately think that the Republican party deserved the thrashing they received, and in some ways, think
they got off somewhat lightly, but now, the Democrats have an awful mess to clean up, and they are
just as responsible for getting us here.
You handed this man, our new President-elect, a shitpot of trouble, and it will take more than his speeches
to make this country right. We all will have to buckle down and get it done, whether we voted for, or supported
Mr. Obama, or not.
Unlike many of my friends, I have not posted any politically oriented articles, nor stated who I was supporting.
I did not know who I was voting for until I was filling my ballot out. But I sure as hell knew who I wasn't voting for.
I am, and will always be, unaffiliated, or independent, and refuse to vote because of a letter behind someones name,
and I do not support a two party system, so I am a third party voter. It is quite a switch, I used to be a reliably
Republican-leaning independant, until this incarnation of the party turned Republicanism, and worse, conservatism,
into a twisted, nightmare version of what it should be.

As a country, we have a lot of hard choices to make, and a lot of realizations we need to face up to. In the last 28
years, we have let this country turn into a dangerous, dumbed down, uncaring, selfish place. We have divided ourselves,
using the most idiotic reasons, to where we cannot get anything done that is important.

Please, for our country, do what you can to make it better, work for it, because an election is a new beginning, not a
ending to the problems we are facing.

Congratulations, Mr Obama, you got this mess to deal with, and I wish you well with it. All of our futures depend
on you, and us, fixing this.

Finally, someone who upholds justice,

2008-10-12T14:36:00.001-06:00

and doesn't just follow the law.
(Thanks to Todd for this one.)

Sheriff tells deputies not to help in foreclosures
Illinois lawman too many innocent renters are being made homeless
The Associated Press
updated 4:52 p.m. PT, Wed., Oct. 8, 2008
CHICAGO - The sheriff here said Wednesday that he’s ordering his deputies to stop evicting people from foreclosed properties because many people his office has helped throw out on the street are renters who did nothing wrong.
“We will no longer be a party to something that’s so unjust,” a visibly angry Cook County Sheriff Tom Dart said at a news conference.
“We have to be sure that when we are doing this — and we are destroying some people’s lives — we better be darned sure we’re talking about the right people,” Dart said.
Dart said he believes he’s the first sheriff in a major metropolitan area to stop participating in foreclosure evictions, and the publisher of a national foreclosure database said he’s probably right.
“I haven’t heard of any other sheriff unilaterally deciding to stop foreclosures,” said Rick Sharga, senior vice president of the Irvine, Calif.-based RealtyTrac, Inc. He said the sheriff in Philadelphia helped push a moratorium on foreclosure sales, but that involved owner-occupied homes and not renters.
Dart said that from now on, banks will have to present his office with a court affidavit that proves the home’s occupant is either the owner or has been properly notified of the foreclosure proceedings.
Illinois law requires that renters be notified that their residence is in foreclosure and they will be evicted in 120 days, but Dart indicated that the law has been routinely ignored.
He talked about tenants who dutifully pay their rent, then leave one morning for work only to have authorities evict them and put their belongings on the curb while they are gone.
By the time they get home, “The meager possessions they have are gone,” he said. “This is happening too often.”
In many cases, he said, tenants aren’t even aware that their homes have fallen into foreclosure.
This week, an attorney asked that Dart be held in contempt when his deputies did not evict tenants after determining they were not the owners and did not know about their landlord’s financial problems.
A judge denied the attorney’s request, Dart’s office said, and Dart said that after talking to the Cook County state’s attorney’s office, he is confident he is on solid legal ground.
“My job as sheriff is to follow court orders, absolutely,” he said. “But I’m also in charge of making sure justice is being done here and it is clear that justice is not being done here.”
The state’s attorney’s office said it would not comment on conversations with Dart because his office is a client.
Foreclosures have skyrocketed around the country in recent months and Dart said the number of foreclosure evictions in Cook County could more than double from the 2006 tally of 1,771. This year the county is on pace to see 4,500 such evictions, he said.
Dart warned that because the eviction process on foreclosures can take more than a year, the number is sure to climb even higher.
“From all the numbers we have seen, we know (they) are going to be exploding,” he said.
Sharga said there are more than 1 million U.S. homes in foreclosure — with about a third of that number occupied by someone other than the owner.
“That number will continue to get bigger,” he said.
Dart said he believes banks are not doing basic research to determine that the people being evicted are, in fact, the homeowners.
He said that in a third of the 400 to 500 foreclosure evictions his deputies had been carrying out every month, the residents are not those whose names are on the eviction papers.
Nor, he said, are banks notifying tenants that the homes they’re renting are in foreclosure. He added that when banks do learn the correct names of those living on foreclosed-upon property, their names often are simply added to eviction papers.
“They just go out and get an order the next day and throw these people’s names on there,” Dart said. “Whether they (tenants) have been notified, God only knows.”
Evictions for nonpayment of rent will continue, Dart said, explaining that those cases already have gone to court, his office is confident the people being evicted are who the landlord says they are, and there is no question the tenants are aware of what is going on.
Dart said it’s only fair for banks to give occupants of a foreclosed property adequate notice before forcing them out.
“You are talking about a lot of people in rental situations living paycheck to paycheck,” he said. “To think they are sitting on a pool of money for an up-front deposit, security deposit, is foolishness.”

What friggin year is this...?!?

2008-10-12T12:16:00.002-06:00

For the last few days, Jae, myself, and the rest of our apartment complex have been
living a quasi pioneer life. On Wednesday morning, the main water heater went out, developed a crack, or something. Not a big deal. I used to work maintenance for a few places, a couple hotels, so I know it should be back on by the end of the day, beginning of the next, no problem. Except I didn't consider the lack of response from the landlord. Now we are here on Sunday, and just now got heat and hot water.
It has been dropping into the 30's at night, and with no heat, that is way to cold.

I think we made it through ok because of some of the survival habits I have, like extra blankets, candle lanterns, which reflect some heat, and the attitude that allows me to improvise.
On the other hand, I like being spoiled, you know, not having to boil pots of water to bathe, or wash dishes, or not relying on the oven for heat.

Now comes the clean-up that couldn't be done for almost 5 days, laundry, etc...

As the Chinese say, for this incident, and the last 3 weeks;
May you live in interesting times...

New DVD review; "Inverted Edge Tactics"

2008-09-16T19:45:00.005-06:00

Inverted Edge Tactics
DVD by George "Mercop" Matheis
Review by Terry Trahan

George "Mercop" Matheis is a regular feature on several online tactical/knife forums, and has a training company,
with which he conducts a wide variety of training programs, generally short duration, seminar based self defense
classes. He also has a small selection of DVDs available through his website, either as a refresher for his seminars,
if you attend, or for stand alone training at home. His website is

Mercop

Here is a short bio George wrote, on my request:
=====================================================================================================================================================
I recently retired after almost two decades of civilian and military law enforcement. The vast majority of my carreer was with the Aberdeen Police Dept in MD. I served on patrol and SWAT. As a firearms and officer survival instructor I was instrumental in our agency being the first municipality to issue and train its officers with a tactical folder. I also started our patrol rifle program and using air soft for force on force. I had always been interested in training but after a deadly force incident in 2000 I realized that the reality and training had little to do with each other. My core art being Yoshi Ryu Ju Jitsu I began to incorporate the best of that and other arts into brutal open hand combatives that would either allow me to prevail in conflicts or create space and time to upgrade to the appropriate level of mechanical force. We encountered way more edged weapons on the street than firearms and none of them looked like what people were training with. When people hear edged weapons they think about knife fighting which I find a pretty useless skill set for two reasons. One is that if you wait until you see a knife to defend against it you are too late. The other is that if you do get a chance to use a knife during an altercation it has to be introduced with open hand skills. Stick stuff came to be because I hate OC spray and used my ASP all the time, seldom for striking, but more for joint presses and takedowns. The firearms were just natural since I am a gun guy an have a bunch of FI credentials. In MCS we seldom shoot outside of seven yards.
=======================================================================================================================================================
George sent me his IET DVD at my request for review, and I requested it for one main reason. Of course, I will
say whether or not this is a good instructional, but I wanted to see for myself if the claims that this was a rip off
of the Reverse Edge tactics that I have been affiliated with, and teaching, for several years. When Mercop
first announced the pre-release of this DVD, several people started assuming, as the DVD had not been
released yet, that it was another case of copy someone elses work, and take the credit.
After watching it a few times, and being very familiar with all the material involved, I can say without reservation
that it is not Reverse Edge methodology. It will work as an adjunct to FGEU bladework, but is significantly different.
The first way this is apparent is by the fact that RG methodology, whether from

MAAJAK

SouthNarc

D.R

, or myself,
is primarily thrust oriented. We use the edge as a secondary method, but the emphasis is on the thrust, as we feel this
can transfer over to any handheld tool, whether edged or not. Mercops method is more knife specific, and edge oriented.
He only teaches reactive slashes in this presentation. If you are looking for a comparison for the material he teaches, it is very
similar to Michael DeBetthencourt, and the classes he taught through a certain firearms company several years ago.

In this DVD, Mercop introduces a knife he has chosen for the "official" IET blade, which is the

Al Mar Payara

,
which appears to be a well constructed folder, and it has an available training drone. Even though he states this is the official knife
for his method, he does state that one can use whatever knife one has, which is good, as I generally harp on that kind of crap, as it
costs you more money than it should.
Now, onto the meat of the program. Do I think this is any good. Yes, I do. Will I use this method as my own, probably not. The whys are;
I have a few methods of knife work that I have trained for too long to drop for this method, and, as mentioned, I am primarily a thrust oriented tool user,
even with impact weapons like saps. But, as a crash course in edged weapons survival, and knife use, this DVD has some very usable material,
is easily learned, and if given a modicum of practice, easily retained. There is no fluff on the discs, and the production and sound are surprisingly
good for a private production.
Things I would note as needing improvement are: a more thorough explanation of some of the concepts taught, such as the iron Triangle, and the Panic Push,
as well as demonstrating this method against unequal weqapons, and multiple assailants.
Overall, this is a good production, and if you have no previous knowledge of the use of the knife, you can learn to defend yourself using the material presented,
which in the end, is what really matters. And if you have some knife combatives background, you can use this to add to your tool box.

Inverted Edge Tactics

Mercop

Thanks for reading.

A great quote, stolen from a great friend

2008-09-07T20:04:00.002-06:00

"Society does not want free men. They talk freedom, democracy, anything they want. But they don't want free men. Society wants conditioned men…men who march in step." ~ Charierre

And a quick piece of advice: If you haven't read Papillon, why not.
It is one of the greatest books, and survival manuals ever.
Banco is good, but Papi is a classic.

We survived

2008-09-07T19:48:00.002-06:00

Hello,
To answer a few questions, yes, we survived the DNC, and if I could figure out how to embed video, I will have a post soon. If not, I will post video links to a few things, and give a bit of opinion(I know, you're shocked).
I have 2 reviews coming up, 1 book, and 1 DVD.
Other than that, working, training, writing, and living life!

DNC happenings

2008-08-21T18:40:00.002-06:00

So, the Democratic National Convention officially starts Monday, in my pleasant little town. But, people have already started showing up, delegates, conventioneers, and protesters.
Some lovely rumors going around, mostly about how bad the protesters are going to be, some of which may be true, but also, how bad the police, and other authorities are going to be. In case ya'll didn't know, we live in the downtown area, about 1 1/2 miles from the Pepsi Center, Jae works 3 blocks from Civic Center Park, where the
majority of the protests are going to be, and my route to work takes me past Invesco Field, where Obama is giving his acceptance speech. That day, they are closing the street I take to work, so I still have to figure out how I'm getting home that day.
Just some stories of interest, considering all this going on.
Cyanide and dead Somali found in ritzy hotel, blocks from the State Capitol(and Jaes work):

Somali & cyanide at the Burnsley

Gitmo on the Platte:

GITMO

Freedom cages for protesters:

from the main protest website

Oh yeah, warnings are being given to keep supplies for 3 days, that 911 may not be able to respond, and they may cut power and water.
This will be fun!

ANARKOS

2008-08-14T18:54:00.002-06:00

I have no sovereign, all I have is my life
There are no secrets, merely truths I have not yet discovered
Materialism is not life, living and joy, pain and growing are life
Modern society is the abberation, not the norm,
It does not set my thoughts, my intelligence guides me
No gurus, just guides and fellow wanderers

I will not quit, I will not fail, I will
SURVIVE
I WILL LIVE

Well, hmmm, the economy sucks....

2008-08-11T18:53:00.002-06:00

This is an important topic for people to pay attention to for two reasons.
A)Survival: The worse things get, the harder preperations are going to be to
make, and the more expensive supplies and the like will be. And...
B)Self Defense, just as theft related crimes rise during the holiday season, they also do during times of economic "downturn", or plummeting downfall, as this might turn out to be.

Due to this, we need to realize the fact that you are not going to be able to rely on most mainstream sources of information on the economy. This is also due to(mostly) two reasons:
A) Corporate ownership of all media. Almost every media outlet in this country is owned by 6 companies. They are not just media companies, they are also producers of goods and services, which they want you to buy. Since most of the "goods" they produce are useless, and of no real value, they would be expendable to most people during an economic hard time. Since the aforementioned companies desire profit over anything, including honesty, they will not let the news be known, so as to not endanger their profit margin.
B)Related, but different than above. Almost all of these companies have "financial services" components of the corporations, and they are making a killing off this mess.
I guess it really just boils down to greed. In the words of Don, greed as a mental illness. Enough is not enough, and too much is barely adequate.
Well, since all this is happening, it, as usual, falls on us to take care of things ourselves. Be more cautious while you are out and about. Take the normal crime avoidance measures. Secure food, preferably some long term storage food(check the links for a good source). Get out of debt. Seriously. It is my wife and my biggest goal right now, and we are working very hard at it.
Make sure all your stuff is in good repair, car, house, all of it, not just gear geek stuff you like to play with.
Watch to not get suckered into buying for the sake of buying, save your money, but don't keep all of it in the bank. Remember IndyMac, and now, the FDIC is having trouble covering bank failures already, and they have just started.
Stay safe, and take care.

A quickie

2008-08-03T19:54:00.003-06:00

Hello all, been doing a lot of thinking since my last posts.
One thing I didn't realize before this episode was how many people read this blog,
and from how far away some of them are. It is awesome, and humbling to realize that people from Belgium, France, Germany, and Japan(too name a few) read this, and care enough about me to write me, and see if I was ok. It also makes me realize who and what are important to me. Bobbe, Jay, Don,Chuck, Rod, and Serge, especially, thanks for everything.
On to more important things. Take a look at the series of posts Don Rearic has over at the Reclussionaire. It is a stark look at the reality we are all facing, as the powers that be continue their quest to take over everything, and put the blame on us for being irresponsible. Particularly these two posts:

Salinas thinking

Jeffersons war

Scroll down his blog and read his response to Phil "asshat" Gramms "Nation of whiners" statement.
The stress and tension are building here in the downtown area due to the DNC coming to town. I have a pretty bad feeling about this one. A little less than 3 weeks, and people are getting froggy, and violent already.
Heat is getting ridiculous here. 104 on Friday, and not much cooler the last 2 days.
Thats all for now, keep an eye out for more posts this coming week, as I have a couple reviews to do, and some other fun stuff.
Take care of yourself, and those you care for, as its obvious our "betters" don't care.

Thanks for the concern...

2008-07-03T18:27:00.002-06:00

... from the bottom of my heart, it means the world to me, at time when it was
very much needed.
Things are evening out, and I am seeing things in a more clear manner.
There will be a lot of work to do with everything that I found.

What doesn't kill me makes me stronger, and it is a positive statement.

WTFO!?!

2008-07-01T19:48:00.003-06:00

Ever have the rug pulled out from under, saw what was there, and felt like an idiot and fool. Just happened to me, from a direction I never saw coming.
Makes me wonder why I do the things I do.

Pain is weakness leaving the mind and body, they say.
This crap must be making me one strong MoFo....

First Amendment, it still is the law

2008-06-15T16:53:00.002-06:00

Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the government for a redress of grievances.

I am amazed lately at hearing and reading how people, of all persuassions, want to deny others exercise of the First Amendment. I see it happening with all the amendments, but the attack seems to be more prolific on the 1st.
As most of you know, Denver is hosting the DNC in August. Once again, the powers that be, have decided that all protests shall be held in a "free-speech zone". WTFO?!? According to the Constitution, which is the basis of all law in this country, the whole nation is a free speech zone. Is it that the high and mighty don't care what "We the People" have to say? People get aressted for passing out videos on the 16th St Mall?!? The 1st Amendment does not say that peaceable assembly and speech that we like is protected, it says all speech is protected. What part of this is hard to understand? You not liking what someone says is not grounds to deny them the ability to say it. If you don't like it, walk away, plain and simple.
Don't you realize that when you quash someone elses right of speech, yours may be next? It sets a precedent, and not a good one. Pull your heads out, people. If this keeps happening, the Constitution will be gutted, and meaningless.
Why do you think the ACLU supported the KKKs right to march? Not because they agree with the Klan, but the right is more important than ideology.
Protesting is not new, especially in a time of war. Every war in this country has been accompanied by protest, including WW2. If you don't know this, search it out, and study it. WW1 veterans were one of the largest groups leading the protests, it also birthed Pacifica Radio, as a voice for protest.
If your are so limited in your worldview, and so fragile that you cannot handle being challenged on your beliefs, you are not informed, you are simply a follower.
A sheep, if you will. What are sheep led to? Inform yourself, read everything, come to your own conclusions. I don't care if they match mine, but know why you believe what it is you believe.
And above all, throw off the blinders of ideology, and support anyones rights as enumerated in the Constitution, agreement or not, or you will be next!

Heartwarming

2008-05-20T16:59:00.001-06:00

In 1986, Peter Davies was on holiday in Kenya after graduating from Northwestern University.

On a hike through the bush, he came across a young bull elephant standing with one leg raised in the air. The elephant seemed distressed, so Peter approached it very carefully.

He got down on one knee and inspected the elephant's foot and found a large piece of wood deeply embedded in it. As carefully and as gently as he could, Peter worked the wood out with his hunting knife, after which the elephant gingerly put down its foot. The elephant turned to face the man, and with a rather curious look on its face, stared at him for several tense moments. Peter stood frozen, thinking of nothing else but being trampled. Eventually the elephant trumpeted loudly, turned, and walked away. Peter never forgot that elephant or the events of that day.

Twenty years later, Peter was walking through the Chicago Zoo with his teenaged son. As they approached the elephant enclosure, one of the creatures turned and walked over to near where Peter and his son Cameron were standing. The large bull elephant stared at Peter, lifted its front foot off the ground, and then put it down. The elephant did that several times then trumpeted loudly, all the while staring at the man.

Remembering the encounter in 1986, Peter couldn't help wondering if this was the same elephant. Peter summoned up his courage, climbed over the railing and made his way into the enclosure. He walked right up to the elephant and stared back in wonder.

The elephant trumpeted again, wrapped its trunk around one of Pater's legs and slammed his stupid ass against the railing, killing him instantly.

Probably wasn't the same elephant.

This is for all of my friends who send me those heart-warming stories...
hehehe

Life happens in the big city

2008-05-14T20:39:00.002-06:00

An interesting thing has been happening for the last few weeks here.
I leave for work, every morning, about 6:45 am. For the last few weeks,
every Wednesday, there has been a crackhead camped out in the foyer of our
apartment building. Luckily, the door to the actual apartments is secure, but if you want to go outside, you have to go through the foyer.
So anyway, here is this guy, stinking, mumbling, and not wanting to leave. Now,
I live in an area called Uptown, with alot of "hipsters", who are about as safety
concious, and ready to deal with the unpleasantries of life, as I am able to understand La Traviota.
The first time it happened, I asked him to leave, he complained, but I insisted, and held the door open, and he shuffled off. Same thing the second time.
The last time however, he must have been jonesing or something, because he wasn't having it.
I walked into the foyer, smelled and saw him, and got ready. I told him he knew he couldn't be there, and to please leave. So, he jumps up and says he is going to stay. I say no, you don't live here, and I must insist that you leave. He starts flailing around, and yells," I'm gonna kick your ass, before you make me leave!"
I am kind of taken aback, given the previous encounters, so I say, "What?"
He responds with, "You gonna kick my ass!?" Now, I have about 4 mins to catch
my train, so I am getting impatient and pissed, so I look at him and say
"I guess that would be upto you, wouldn't it."
Hmmm, he left, and I haven't seen him since.
In spite of this, I still love living downtown.

Obtaining information

2008-04-06T18:32:00.002-06:00

I have always been a firm believer in seeking as much info as possible, as it makes
surviving so much easier. And remember, WeaselCraft at it's core is about surviving.
It doesn't matter much to me what the bias of the source is, as long as my own mind is still working. If you can't extract information from any source, and see how it effects you, you need to learn how to. Drop your own biases, and just take the info for what it is.
Unfortunately, what passes for news in our country is either propaganda directly from the government, or what the corporate powers want us to see. Oh, wait, isn't that the same thing? Corpratism/fascism are awful close together.
Anyway, here are some of the places I go for news, info, and sometimes, entertainment.
As with everything I do, I am sure there are plenty of things to piss off most everyone in this list, as there are far right & far left, as well as some "conspiracy" sites here, but it is all info that effects us, so it is good to know.

www.thomhartmann.com
Thom is a classical liberal, in the sense of Thomas Jefferson, and provides good insight into things effecting our country, and the world. He also constructivly engages the Right on his show.

www.infowars.com
Alex Jones' site. Lots of straight news with a Big Brother lens.
Some veers to conspiracy, but, it is consistently correct in data, although some conclusions he reaches, I do not agree with.

www.whatreallyhappened.com
Mike Rivero, also of the GCN radio network, deals in straight info, basically just links to other sources. Man, the world is scary when you read it all.

www.whatdoesitmean.com
Biggest list of headlines I've found

www.beforeitstoolate.com
A great hub for survival information. It is all links to different websites run by Kurt Wilson, who is a genius when it comes to actual survival, and he does not sell Gucci Gear.

english.aljazeera.net
For news from the Middle East, which is kind of important to pay attention to.

www.democrcynow.org
Amy Goodmans radio show, very informative, and not part of the false left/right argument. This one does fall squarely in the socialist/anarchist arena.

www.flashpoints.net
Another Pacifica radio show, same as above as far as inclination.
Both DN & Flashpoints report on many things you will never see covered in the MSM

I will add more later, and further update the links section.

I would just like to remind everyone, you don't have to believe the bias to get the information. Listen, read, learn, and make up your own mind.
Thinking is the best, most important part of surviving.

Weaselcraft profile pics

2008-04-06T18:29:00.004-06:00

Thanks for the comments on the profile pic.
It is actually one of a two piece that was going to be a T-shirt several years ago.
Unfortunately, that never worked out, but here are the two pics together.
Sneaky, eh?

My take on the Rev. Wright "issue"

2008-04-06T18:05:00.004-06:00

My take on this is that, among other things, it is hypocrisy at its highest.
Everyone one on the Right is freaking out and condemning Sen. Obamas pastor for
the "anti-american" things he said. While what he said may not be pleasant, they might be downright disturbing, but, they are not unpatriotic, or whatever horse-dung is being said.
He is simply stating what he believes is done in this country, of which, there is actually evidence to back up quite a few of his assertions. The Webb story on the CIA/crack connection is but one.

Now the hypocrisy comes in. Several months ago, in September, there was a Republican debate. It was called the "Value Voters Debate",
as if uptight, right wing conservatives are the only ones who have values... anyway, the debate opened with a choir singing this song...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QehVoPP5yc4
(sorry, vid wouldn't embed, please cut & paste to watch)

Now, notice, they are complaining about what they see wrong in the country, and saying God should not bless our country.
Isn't that unpatriotic, anti-american, or whatever else is being said about Rev. Wrights opinions?

Just something to make you go hmmmm.....

Working on some new posts

2008-03-30T18:12:00.002-06:00

Things are slowing down for me, and I have some post almost ready.
I think I either pulled a muscle, or tore it, in my right shoulder, so it might be a bit longer.
Take care everyone.

New review!!!

2008-02-10T16:42:00.000-07:00

Douk Douk, a Ghost, and a 21st Century Douk
A review/article by Terry Trahan

Several years ago, I was discussing various survival related topics with
my Brother, Don Rearic, and the discussion turned towards small folders
for pocket kits. He brought up a knife by the name Douk Douk, and asked if I
knew about them. I told him I had read a review of them by Fred Perrin, but had never
used one. Well, at his urging, I ended up getting one to include in a kit. I do not know what
took me so long, but I do know that I missed out on a wonderful knife for many years, that I
cannot see doing without any longer.
The Douk Douk is a slip joint folder made completely out of steel, with a nice bail at the end of the
handle to accept either a fob/lanyard, or a length of cord, for different purposes. It comes in 3 different
sizes, and I have a medium and a small, and find they can handle anything I have been able to put them through.

I like the carbon steel for a few different reasons. First, it can be used along with a fire rod to create sparks to
start a fire in a survival emergency. Second, it is easy as hell to resharpen, and takes a razors edge with no
hard work involved in the sharpening process. The only downside to this wonderful knife is the opening process.
As mentioned, it is a slip joint, and one with very strong backsprings. Strong backsprings are a great thing, they keep the knife
open and don't let the blade close on your fingers. However, it does not provide for quick use of the knife, and definately is way
to slow for SD usage. Apparently, I am not the only one who likes the Douk, it's blade shape is wonderfully useful, and it
is the right size for any job. Among fans of the Douk is one Mr. Laci Szabo. As a matter of fact, I purchased one of my
first Douks from his website, www.szaboinc.com
Mr. Szabo has an incredibly creative mind for bladeware, and produces some of the most usable, attractive, and purpose
designed knives around. I was looking at his website, and nearly had a heart attack, as the answer to the Douk problem was
right there in front of my eyes. Mr Szabo had designed a fixed blade Douk Douk. The fixed blade Douk has a 4" handle with
Micarta scales, is full tang construction, and has the traditional Turkish clip point of the folding Douk, with a 3.5" blade.

Let me tell you, I have used this knife for everything I can think of. Utility use has seen it go through hundreds of feet of cardboard
in the warehouse at work, opened a few thousand packages in the repair shop, and all the other normal uses you can put a knife
through. In all of this, I had to sharpen the knife a grand total of one time. The handle really makes this knife shine for defensive use,
however. Mr. Szabo totally reworked the traditional handle of the Douk Douk, and made it as ergonomic as possible. The length
of the handle, and the weight of the knife due to its thickness provides a balance point right behind the choil, allowing for rapid
manipulation of the knife, and grip changes that are smooth and quick. This knife shines in all four of the major grips, but really works in
standard forward hammer grip, and RGEI, due to the point alignment, and the curvature of the handle.
I cannot recommend this knife enough. Some will say that the price is too much, but the construction, useability, and feel of the knife
guarantee that it will last a lifetime, and serve you well. It is well worth the price, especially for a truly custom knife, that you will want to
use everyday.
I have been testing the Douk Douk fixed for a few months, and in that time, I frequently checked Mr. Szabos website, to see what other
new ideas or tools he has come up with, and during the process, I saw another tool there that I had to have. It is no secret that I believe in
overlapping layers of tools, and different tools for different jobs. Impact tools are one of the articles that I think are indispensible in a defensive
profile. My ideas of good impact tools run the gamut from saps & blackjacks to knuckles, to Stingers, and especially Koppo sticks.
In this new tool that Laci Szabo designed, he has managed to combine the best of the Stinger/knuckle tool, and a Koppo.
It is called a Ghost, and it is constructed of one piece of hardened aircraft aluminum. It should be obvious the many uses that this tool can
be applied to, and I am working on an article showing some of the uses for the Ghost, but I had to include some pics and a mention in this article.

I have to admit, after receiving the Ghost, it has supplanted my carry of the Van de Camp sap.
All the pics used in this article come from either Fred Perrins old Geocities website, where the original review of the Douk Douk is,
or Mr. Szabos wonderful www.szaboinc.com
Thanks for reading.

EDC Kit

2008-01-09T20:07:00.001-07:00

Everyday Carry/ Urban Survival Style
All to often in the tactical world, we(and I do include myself here), all to
often concentrate on the newest or coolest knives or other protection tools
that come down. While there is nothing inately wrong with this, I would like to expand
the concept of EDC beyond this realm, and get into some other considerations that might be of
interest and/or use to you.
One area that gets some, but not enough, interest is TacMed, or emergency first aid, under hostile
conditions. If you carry a knife for self protection, you are manifesting your belief that you may be
attacked by another armed individual, or group of individuals, intent on doing you harm, right?
That would be the only reason for an armed response. If you do this, shouldn't you also face the
possibility that you, or a loved one, may get injured if this occurs? Here is where a Blow Out Kit(BOK
for short) or trauma kit comes into play. There is no set form for these to take, and only a few items are
common to all good ones, but everyone needs a starting point.
First thing in any good trauma kit should be a way to control bleeding. There are several products available, and we will concentrate on
3 of them here, for control of various levels of bleeding. First on my list is a good one handed bandage,
i.e the Israeli Battle Dressing(IzzyD), or other one hander. Unlike the old style GI Compress Dressing, which
has two tails that you tie together, these dressings are predicated on the assumption that you may not have full use
of one hand, but will still need to apply the dressing to a wound. It does this by having one tail, and a hook system, so
you can anchor and then wrap the bandage. This is invaluable for so many reasons. If your arm is cut, you cannot use
that hand to tie off a traditional bandage, so logic and simplicity dictate the use of this piece of equipment. I would still advise
carrying the old GI dressing, as you can use it on other wounded areas, or for assisting another, however.
Next, for more serious bleeding, would be a one handed tourniquet. Same theory as the Izzy, but without the dressing.
I would not feel comfortable advising on tourniquet use in this short article, please pursue some form of advanced first aid training
to learn about this aspect of care. Having said that, if you know the hows and whys, this piece of kit is priceless to help keep your
butt in this realm long enough to get some professional assistance. A quick note, none of this is intended to replace professional
medical care or advice. It is intended to help you survive the aftermath til professional care is available.
Finally, if all else fails, and direct pressure, bandaging, and even tourniquets are not working, a packet of QuikClot, as a last
resort. This is an exothermic powder that will stop the bleeding on an arterial cut. Very good stuff for the job. Remember, this is an
in extremis piece of kit. You would not use this unless the other option is bleed out. Yes, it will burn the surronding tissue, but given the
other choice, I think this is a fair trade-off. Death or some tissue damage, but as usual, the choice is yours.
Next, keeping in mind the urban focus of this article, would be things to make life easier. Something like keeping an extra supply of your
prescriptions and pain killers( I recommend Ibuprofen), that you take, I keep all of mine in a little pill bottle. I also keep some OTC aleergy
meds in there, along with some low dose (baby) aspirin, in case of heart attack(mine or someone elses). A nice little roll of flat duct tape, maybe
6 feet long has many uses, limited only by imagination. Do you carry a flashlight? If so, do you carry spare bulbs and batteries? I do,
in my bag, and it takes no room at all.
Fire is a big subject for survival, and firestarting. I do have some more "survival" type fire starters in one of my kits, because you never
know, but for my money, nothing beats two cheap, see through lighters from the corner convenience store. I stress the see through
kind for the simple reason of fuel level. With Bics, or other opaque lighters, fuel level will be guess work. If you can see through it,
you can see your level. Two(or more) just for redundancy. I keep one in the bag, and one in a pocket.
An emegency stash of cash, some extra strong safety pins, a compass, some tweezers, bandaids, a list of contact numbers, copies of your
drivers license and SS card, a small utility knife(take a look at a Douk Douk), and you're on your way to a decent kit.
In the bag, I also keep some zip ties, paracord, an all purpose piece of cloth called a cheiche, climate appropriate clothing accesories(gloves, scarf).
I also keep some food bars, my favorites are Larabars, or Odwalla food bars. A water bottle will be a must, of course.
MultiTools are another wonder we cannot do without. I carry 2 kinds. One is a Spyderench, and the other a Byrd HarpTool. Both are
available from Spyderco, but the Spyderench has been discontinued. It has been replaced by the Byrdrench, which is the same tool,
different place of manufacture.
If I can answer any questions, or provide more help, please let me know, and I'll do my best.
T

My new tattoo

2007-12-16T20:03:00.001-07:00

Here are a couple shots of my new tattoo. This was done by Heidi at Twisted Sol on Thanksgiving weekend. The photos aren't the best, and I want to take some in the daytime.

Those who know me will know what the tat means, but for those who need help, here goes.

The crossed baston & sundang, along with the circle and triangle, are from Bobbe Edmonds school crest, and symbolize what he has taught me, the FMAs I am learning, and the emphasis placed on weapons in my teaching.

The crossed kujangs are highly symbolic and personal for me. This is part of the crest for the art I have studied the longest, Silat Zulfikari, and my teacher, Mushtaq Ali.

Together, these come together and form what my personal style is becoming.

Sword & Dagger by MAA James A Keating

2007-12-12T20:06:00.000-07:00

Master at Arms James A. Keating:
Sword & Dagger 2 DVD set
A review by Terry Trahan
The newest DVD available from MAA Keating is a 2 DVD set entitled Sword & Dagger.
In this video set, MAA Keating teaches Filipino Espada y Daga, as seen through the Comtech
filter. With each DVD coming in around 1hr 10min, this is one of the most in depth instructional
series I have seen offered this year.
In the first DVD, MAA Keating introduces the beginner level EyD sets to teach the basic movements
needed to become proficient in this style of Filipino Martial Arts. What makes this an excellent purchase is
the way the sets build on each other. As in Pencak Silat, there are core movements present in each set, and one
advances by constantly practicing these movements, refining them, and adding the next link in the chain to form the next
set. As the series progresses, and in to the second DVD, the sets get progressively more complex, with more movements
added to cover different angles, or to introduce various "styles" of striking such as Redondo, Witik, etc in to the framework of
long/short weapons.
Because of the complexity of the sets, MAA Keating breaks each one down into its component parts, and demonstrates them
with a partner, and from various angles, to insure a proper understanding of each component, and the flow required to execute them.
In his book "Gentlemens Steel Reader", MAA Keating mentions that the FMAs teach a student on at least three levels at once, and no
where is this more apparent than in this EyD curriculum. There is the obvious level, being able to use long/short weapons combinations
in a combative situation. But, this also goes into deeper territory, it teaches movement, body angling, power generation, and conceptual use
of both knife and empty hand.
As mentioned, throughout each segment, there are ample demonstrations of each set, with different training partners, and also demonstrations of
the variations available in the more advanced sets. In each variation, Mr. Keating encourages the student viewer to make each set, and its accompanying
variation, their own, and adopt the movements for themselves.
At the end of the first DVD, MAA Keating demonstrates the form "Tai Yata" which is a single person training drill that ties the material together very well, as well
as introducing the body mechanics and english required from this dicipline. This portion of the video is very well filmed, and shot from different angles, including
overhead, so the viewer gets a total view and understanding of this form. It is also demanstrated with training partners as a developmental tool, and to sink in the
reason the body mechanics are important.
In the second disc, MAA Keating also performs a Carrenza against all three of his assistants, each armed with a different set of weapons, to show how to get into the flow
and use this material. Also interspersed are traditional drills adapted to the long/short framework such as Sumbrada and Sinawali.
All in all, this series has much to offer, on many levels, and is easy to follow, as to learn each segment.
To order, contact Mr. Keating through www.jamesakeating.com

A quick update

2007-12-02T15:58:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone, been awhile, so I thought I would post a quick update on how things are going.

Kicking caffeine has been a bitch, but I'm down from 3-4 pots of coffee a day to maybe two cups at work. My diet change has been successful, and I barely eat processed sugar anymore.

Working some hardcore overtime from last week through Christmas, but the money is good, and will go into the moving fund.

I have a new review I'm working on for Jim Keatings Sword & Dagger DVD set, and oooohhhh
baby is this an awesome learning tool. Everyone needs one.
I also have an article coming up about my kit that I carry everyday, beyond just toys.

The new tattoo is done, and as soon as it heals, I will post a pic. I love it, it came out great. Goto
http://www.internationaltattooart.com/index.cfm?page=backissues and look at the Jan 2006,
the cover girl is the artist who did the tat.

Take care all, and talk soon.

Boker Plus/CLB Designs MPT

2007-11-08T09:48:00.000-07:00

A review by Terry Trahan

Boker Plus/Chad Los Banos MPT Knife Review
A little note: I know it is highly unusual for an employee of the company
to review one of its own pieces. But I was impressed enough through the process of this knife that I had to. I usually limit my reviews to books, videos, and custom knives, but had to make an exception for this one. Thanks.

02BO591/02BO592
Technical Specs:
Steel: AUS 8
Blade Length: 3 3/4" OAL:6 4/5
Weight: 3 oz Sheath: Zytel

The newest design from Chad Los Banos to be made under the Boker Plus line
is the MPT,(Multi Purpose Tanto), model number 02BO591 for the plain edge,
gray finish, and 02BO592 for the partially serrated, black finish.

This is an interesting new design that solves a few of the problems presented when
one chooses to carry a fixed blade over a folder, which happens to be my preference.
First, the blade shape, and grinds are strong enough to handle anything a knife this size should, and stronger than most knives in this category. It is a fairly thick blade as well, making making it handy for outdoor and survival chores, as well as for the urban carry role it was designed for.
The blade shape offers a great mix of the tip strength of a tanto, with the cutting power of a recurve edge in the same knife. It makes for some great snap cuts as well as being very good at fine cutting, both in the kitchen, and in the warehouse at work.

The most obvious feature of the knife is the handle. This, in my opinion, makes the whole package come together. It is also the part of this design that solves the carry problem mentioned earlier. With the short handle, it can be carried in multiple positions without the handle biting and digging. Yet the handle is thick enough, and textured to provide a solid grip. If your hands are a little larger than average, you can do as I did, and add a lanyard or fob to the handle, and your grip is even more sure.
The sheath also helps with the carry possibilities, as it has multiple attachment points for any carry you can think up. I have used the following means of attaching the knife, and have not had any problem; Small TekLok, Large TekLok, G-Clip, J-Clip, Static Cord, and a Bro Clip from HAK. I have carried it in the following positions also; appendix carry, both 1 o'clock and 11 o'clock handle up and down, IWB strong and weak side edge forward, 11 o'clock appendix carry with the edge up/handle down, ala the Clinch Pick, and have not had one problem with any of the combinations I have tried.

To me, it is obvious that this knife was designed with urban/SD carry at it's heart, and I cannot help but think that the design succeeds at this. It runs through the flow drills like a dream due to the balnce and weight. As mentioned, the grinds and edge are excellent, and it pierces and cut everything I have put in front of it. The handle provides a solid, comfortable grip in reverse grip edge out, forward grip edge down,
and forward grip edge up. It is not as comfortable in reverse grip edge in, but it will perform in that grip.
All in all, Chad has designed a very good knife, and the price point makes it available to anyone who needs a good, solid blade.

Terry Trahan
8/14/07

Street Knife by MAA James A Keating

2007-11-07T19:00:00.000-07:00

A review by Terry Trahan

The newest DVD release from MAAJAK is Street Knife, featuring Mr. Keating,
and Pete Kautz from Alliance Martial Arts and Modern Knives.
I would like to echo MAA Keatings words here before I get into more of the review;
this is a core DVD to add to your library. No matter if you are a beginner to the knife, or an old
player, you will learn from this. If this is your first time delving into the knife arts, this DVD will
serve you very well.
Ok, onto the review.
The DVD opens, as all of MAA Keatings do, with an overview of what he will be teaching. I find this
very helpful, as you already have an outline of the material in your mind, and can "file" it appropriately.
After this, the teaching begins. After a brief talk about the responsibility involved in carrying a knife for
self defense purposes, and the reasoning behind the Street Knife curriculla, Mr. Keating briefly covers some basics
on carrying and opening of a folder, and positioning the carry of a small fixed blade. I agree that not much time should
spent on this in a video presentation, it is a personal responsibility to teach yourself this. With the points presented, it
will be an easy task for the beginner to find the best way for them to proceed.
Next comes the instructional meat and potatos.
Basing this course around the simplicity required of a true Street Knife course, all the drills and skills are based off
of four motions. Two low line, and two high. Variations and logic chains are built off these basic positions.
As Mr. Keating points out, this is application, not art, although it is skill. It is a simple, easy to learn series of logical
movements you can count on in the high stress that occurs in a real assault/fight. I do have to say that the first low line
response is my favorite, but all are well thought out, demonstrated, both in drill form, and with a demo of the dynamics
involved in a real deal jam. This last point to me is a gem. To often, drills are presented, and the impression given that
you will do them in a "static" drill format when using them in the real world.
After the drill portion, we come to a segment on skill development. With an eye to the fact that alot of people must train
alone, or only have infrequent partners, MAA Keating tilts his skill development to solo trainers.
I will not give it away, but the tool used in the first segment on skills development is conceptual thinking at its best.
Many will watch it and be dismayed or dismissive, and not try it. This would be a big mistake on their part.
It developes skill, and rapidly. It has been added to my kit, and it is affordable as hell.
Next, a segment on misdirection/stage magic is given by Mr. Kautz. In a visual continuation of the "Magic Trilogy"
hosted on Alliance Martial Arts, and with credit to the authors, MAA Kautz brings you through two misdirections
that are easily applicable to knife work. Pay attention to this part!!!! If you work the concepts taught, it will add to your skill
level immensley, as well as help with survival. As MAA Kautz points out, it may help score a date as well. Hey, who says conceptual
knowledge is not univeral in application.
I highly recommend this DVD. If you have Street Knife and Hellbows, you are well on your way to combative proficiency, if you train the
material.
Thanks for reading.

One more

2007-09-29T20:08:00.000-06:00

Some of my photos

2007-09-29T20:06:00.001-06:00

Go read this

2007-09-09T20:07:00.000-06:00

And then see if you can do something to help...
http://awesome.goodmagazine.com/transparency/006/trans006tellmemore.html

I can't believe this is still happening, and people do not know enough to form an opinion.
Post this elsewhere, if you feel like it.

One of the best days ever

2007-09-05T21:09:00.000-06:00

Every once in a while, there are just those days that will always stay in your memory.

Last St. Patricks Day was one of those, and I was sorting through the pictures, and found this one that wraps it up perfectly.

Plus, I love my wife, and this is one of the better pics I have been able to take of her.

Happy Birthday Mushtaq

2007-09-05T19:54:00.000-06:00

At every turn over the last decade, you have been there for me, to pick me up, train me, spank me down when I get a little full of myself. You have also been there when the inevitable backstabbings occur.
You have been the wise old man so many wish to be, but can never aspire to.
You gave me introduction to the martial arts I love so much, and cleaned up the ones I studied
before I knew you.
You opened my eyes to the world, and taught me to see the fun and joy in it, alongside the bad.

You introduced me to some of the most important people in my life, and took me in as family.

You made me learn how to organize and teach.

But most of all, you have been my friend, through thick and thin.

Happy Birthday, old man, and know Jae and I think often of you.
Talk to you soon...

REVIEW Hellbows by MAA Keating

2007-09-05T19:33:00.001-06:00

Hellbows by Master at Arms James A. Keating
A Review by Terry Trahan
As most of you who know me are aware of, I have been a fan of MAA Keatings for years. In a lot of my teaching,
full credit goes to him as I share a concept, or explore the depths of a technique.
While mostly known for his work with edged weapons, he is equally skilled at multiple areas of martial arts/self defense.
In this DVD, he touches on integrating knifework, but this video is all elbows, all the time.
Coming in at about 48 minutes, it harkens back to the Comtech Specificity series that were made for specific weapons.
My favorite was the push dagger tape. Well, taking that same idea, Mr. Keating has done an elbow specific instructional.
I can hear it now, "Elbow specific, how many ways can you use an elbow?" and other such comments. Suffice to say that whether
you are a beginner, or a veteran martial artist, there will be plenty to learn, and plenty that you probably have not thought of before.
MAA Keating is the prime example of teaching conceptual chains for martial movement, and he applies this conceptual process
to developing use of elbows into a high form of extreme close quarters defense.
Starting with an introduction, covering what material he will teach, he takes the drill Hubud-Lubud as his base for introducing
the use of this tool. After working the regular Hubud, he then transitions it to an elbow developmental tool.
I am tempted to write everything contained on this video, but you will have to buy it to really grok the material.
From "simple" destructions, to basic dumog, this is by far the most educational DVD I have had the luck of seeing recently.
The 5 Elbow Shields alone are worth the price and more. These were shown in Modern Knives video magazine issue 2,
but they are expanded upon in this DVD, and branched out conceptually.
As stated earlier, he touches on knifework in this one, specifically on reverse grip work, using the framework developed
through all the elbow drills. It is a natural progression, and if this is the only knifework you learn, it will serve you well in a
self defense situation.
It is hard to go into more detail without giving away the henhouse, but I have to rate this one very highly. It seems that
MAA Keating is forging ahead in this world of mega production, and doing his own thing as he is so good at, and is regularly
putting out good material. Keep an eye out for the DeQuerdas DVD, and, if you haven't taken a look recently, check out some
of his newer stuff, such as Panantukan Knife-Boxing.
Also, if you haven't, consider subscribing to Modern Knives Video Magazine, it is quarterly, and full of great information.
For further information, please goto, www.jamesakeating.com or www.modernknives.com
Thanks for reading.

Happy Birthday Mr. Steve Perry

2007-08-31T14:54:00.001-06:00

The author, not the singer....

Anyway, today is Mr. Perry's birthday, and not to say he is old, but we found a draft of his first book, and scanned a picture. Here is a peek...

Response to Aaron, my politics...

2007-08-25T17:09:00.000-06:00

...sort of explained. This is in response to Aaron, who responded to my horseshit post, and mentioned my political leanings. Aaron, the post you brought up was over 2 years ago, and is
accurate for where I was at the time. I was a disillusioned former right wing conservative individual. Things have changed since then, as they must if you stay informed, and let yourself
evolve with new information.
At best, I am now a political agnostic, meaning I don't believe any politicians like I used to.
I also think the two party system is highly fucked in its present incarnation. I would like to see us take a more parlimentary system, and force these useless bastards to form coalitions, and work together to solve our problems.
I am finally, fully convinced that there never was the "Republican" party I believed in, it was all smoke and mirrors just to gain power. The "Democrats" are a scared, poor excuse for an opposition party, so they do not get any respect from me. Any party that comes to power, and immediatly ignores the people who got them there sucks, period, full stop.

In short, I am an American without an official political voice, who is veering rapidly toward a smaller, personal commune type system.
The labels liberal and conservative have no meaning to me any longer, other than to let me know what filter the one who identifies as that is using.
Hope this helps.

What kind of happy horseshit is this...

2007-08-24T18:30:00.002-06:00

Ok, I saw this last week, but work swamped me. I wanted to post the whole article, but, surprisingly, it was taken down after it got attention.
What kind of inbred, constitutionally challenged fuckwad believes this kind of drek, much less writes it in public.
Read and weep, these are the words of someone who thinks he thinks, and who obviously doesn't know what country or century he lives in. I am shocked.
Family Security Matters was running.But, just because they removed it, that doesn't mean it doesn't exist anymore."President Bush is reviled; he has become another victim of Democracy.By elevating popular fancy over truth, Democracy is clearly an enemy of not just truth, but duty and justice, which makes it the worst form of government. President Bush must overcome not just the situation in Iraq, but democratic government.However, President Bush has a valuable historical example that he could choose to follow.When the ancient Roman general Julius Caesar was struggling to conquer ancient Gaul, he not only had to defeat the Gauls, but he also had to defeat his political enemies in Rome who would destroy him the moment his tenure as consul (president) ended.Caesar pacified Gaul by mass slaughter; he then used his successful army to crush all political opposition at home and establish himself as permanent ruler of ancient Rome. This brilliant action not only ended the personal threat to Caesar, but ended the civil chaos that was threatening anarchy in ancient Rome – thus marking the start of the ancient Roman Empire that gave peace and prosperity to the known world.If President Bush copied Julius Caesar by ordering his army to empty Iraq of Arabs and repopulate the country with Americans, he would achieve immediate results: popularity with his military; enrichment of America by converting an Arabian Iraq into an American Iraq (therefore turning it from a liability to an asset); and boost American prestiege while terrifying American enemies.He could then follow Caesar's example and use his newfound popularity with the military to wield military power to become the first permanent president of America, and end the civil chaos caused by the continually squabbling Congress and the out-of-control Supreme Court.President Bush can fail in his duty to himself, his country, and his God, by becoming “ex-president” Bush or he can become “President-for-Life” Bush: the conqueror of Iraq, who brings sense to the Congress and sanity to the Supreme Court. Then who would be able to stop Bush from emulating Augustus Caesar and becoming ruler of the world? For only an America united under one ruler has the power to save humanity from the threat of a new Dark Age wrought by terrorists armed with nuclear weapons."
In the immortal words; "OH MY FUCKING GAWD!!!!!"
Idiots, simps, and fucking power hungry, murderous cowards.
Fuck 'em

Knife Review Ugly Knife from Tribal Edge Knives

2007-07-29T16:54:00.000-06:00

OK, if you read the post about my summer vacation, you will see that I went to see my

Silat teacher(who showed me some cool Kali, also), Mushtaq. Aside from being a scholar,

cook, and martial arts teacher, Mushtaq also is a knife maker. His website for this is

http://www.tribaledgeknives.com/

He does this with Chuck Pippen, but they both have different styles.

When I arrived, he gifted me with two items I will keep forever, a walking stick, which will be reviewed later, and a knife, known as the Ugly Knife.

This knife is a wonderful multi-purpose knife. It is probably the most useful all around knife I have owned for quite a while.

According to Mushtaq, he designed it with utility in mind first, and SD as something it can do

as well. I can attest to it's utility use, as I carried it at work for awhile, and used it in the warehouse. Comfortable, sharp, and strong enough to handle everything, including falling on a concrete floor while I was climbing some shelves.

But, as we all should know by now, my interest in knives is more towards the SD/survival end of things. This knife performs wonderfully in this regard. A neutral handle means it can be used in all 4 primary grips. The balance point is in the middle, slightly in the handle, making slashes

easy and second nature. The point lines up for thrusting as well as any bowie I have used.

Look Mushtaq and the crew up at the link provided above, and buy one.

Even if you don't need one, you really do.

RIP Carl

2007-07-24T19:40:00.000-06:00

I just found out that Close Combat teacher and researcher, and major influence on me,
has died. Carl Cestari passed on yesterday, 23JUL07.
I will miss our discussions, and all of his contributions to helping people learn to defend himself.
Mostly, I am sad that the world will be missing out on an example of his level.

RIP, Carl. We still need men like you.

Damn, check this out!!

2007-07-15T20:38:00.000-06:00

As many of you know, one of the most important things in my life is music.
Primary among my favorite groups is Motley Crue.
Nikki Sixx of the Crue is releasing a book soon called the Heroin Diaries, due in September.
Of course I'm going to get it, but the cool thing is that he has made a soundtrack for the book.
Check out the first song on it at www.sixxammusic.com
I also have it as the profile song on Myspace.
The song is called "Life is Beautiful", and it is kick ass.
Go on, click the link and listen.

Just one voice saying

2007-07-15T20:01:00.000-06:00

STOP IT, PLEASE!

Sometimes things in life, and the world in general back right up on you, and make you shake your head in disbelief.
When you have a martial artist stealing his friend and partners work, without credit, and cutting said friend out of the organization they made, that is chickenshit, and not worthy of a man, much less someone who proclaims himself a friend, useless turd. Bite me Bernard.

When you have corporations raping the environment, making it impossible for working people to survive, much less prosper, in the pursuit of greed for greeds sake, and a government that is staffed by the same bastards, how do you go on? When hard working men and women cannot afford health insurance, or have to wonder how they will pay the utility bills, because some
dollar sucking business whore needs another new vacation home or a $55 bottle of 'Bling"
water, how can you sit back and be quiet? When gas prices rise, and record profits are taken by
oil companies who are unapologetic about their gouging, how can you believe in justice and fairness? When those gas prices make your food budget unaffordable, how do you live?

When your government supports fat bastards who would whore their mother for a dollar, instead of the people, how can you have faith in elected officials? When the "elite" get commuted sentances, or special treatment, how can you believe in equal justice under the law?
When a city is still destroyed after a hurricane 2 years ago, how can you trust the government, when they are selling that city to their rich buddies?

When a liar, drug addict, drunk can claim authority from God to start an illegal, immoral war, and then ignore those who he works for, how can you believe in representative government?
When the VP can insist he answers to no one, how can you trust Executive Branch decisions, statements or announcements?
When our government supports repressive governments it likes, and supplies them with the money and tools of their oppression, but overthrows democratically elected leaders it does not like, how can you trust our foreign policy?
When the congress cannot or will not stop an out of control executive branch, how do you not think it is a dictatorship?
When corporations buy off all our politicians, but they limit our access and influence, how can you trust the Constitution?
When prisons are privatized, and war as well, how can you believe that we are still a just nation?

Where is the fairness inherent in being equal in this country. How can you believe in the American Dream when it is jerked further away everyday by those who have achieved nothing, save being the lucky result of sperm placement or theft?

Just tell them all, STOP IT, NO MORE, I WILL NOT WORK FOR THIS, OR PUT UP WITH THIS! In whatever way you can, because we cannot survive like this.

What I did on vacation

2007-06-14T18:58:00.000-06:00

Alright, at the end of May, I managed to get some vacation time, and decided to go to
Michigan. I know, I know, Michigan. But there was a good reason. It was the bi-annual
Gathering of the Tribes at the Innovative Martial Arts dojo, and my first chance to go.
And, despite it being in Michigan, I loved it.
It started on Friday, 25MAY07. After an interesting tour of mid-70's airports, and a smoking
lounge designed for 10, and serving 35, I arrived in Grand Rapids, a little before my brother-in-crime, Bobbe Edmonds(look in the links bar). We met up, gathered luggage, met Chuck, and his
partner Don, and got the rental car. So as not to sound braggy, I will just say that Mazda M3s
are the shit. We went to the hotel, dropped the luggage, got some toys out of the bags, and went to Chucks house, which is also where the dojo is. On arrival, I met Jeanne, Chucks wife(she really is to good for you Chuck), and finally saw the old man, Mushtaq, my silat teacher.(once again, look in the links bar), and a bunch of other people, some of whom I had communicated online with for awhile. One was Bill Bednarik, who makes some of the nicest trainers, thumpers and toys I have seen. Check his stuff out at www.combativecustoms.com . His fighting ability is top notch as well. Finally, Jay Carstensen of KSMA fame showed up(you know, links bar),
and we soon found out that Jay has a sick, perverted sense of humor. Of course that means that we became fast friends. The rest of the night was spent talking, playing, and show and tell with
a bunch of various interesting implements. At around 2 am, Bobbe and I made it back to the hotel and passed out. Then came Saturday...

Saturday, or, How to hurt someone, hurl crass insults, and perform silat while laughing hilariously.
Mush,(he just loves being called that), I mean Guru Mushtaq, started the day, after Cody Fielding warmed us up with some Intu-flow. Silat Zulfikari was the basis, of course, but it was an interesting segment. Taking one "seed movement" and taking it as far as you can.
Then came a great treat. Guro Buzz Smith of Maharlika Kuntaw taught. He is amazing, has a great sense of humor, and incredible teaching ability.
After Buzz, Chuck and Don took us through some Hocheim knife work.
Then, as a great surprise, Grandmaster Bobby Taboada, of Balintiwak Cuentada Eskrima, taught a class on the basics of his great art. What a nice man, especially as he was "just in the neighborhood". In Michigan!?! His class was great, and a lot of information was transmitted
on the use of the baston in Balintiwak.
The drummers also helped out by keeping the tempo at the right pace. It was also fun sharing "oxygen" with Grandmaster in between classes.
After this, it was Chuck and Don time again, teaching a section on SunYun Do walking stick work, as part of their rank testing. Oh, did I mention that Don didn't know he was testing? Sneaky bastards, it was great. I enjoyed whacking sticks with Jay, and learning what they had
come up with.
Then, after all this, the "official" rank testing, for 4th Dan was held. After a presentation, questioning period, and some small scenarios, they, meaning Chuck and Don, had defend against a mass attack/robbery consisting of 6 people, of which I was one. And boy did they have to work. I am a sneaky, assholey bastard after all. In a great performance, in which Cuck managed to stab me in the throat through my mouth, without hardly touching anything,(long story), it was done. After conferring, they were unanimously awarded 4th Dan ranking by the League of Non-Alligned Martial Artists, of which I am a proud member..
Then, there was much food, comaraderie, and more playing, until bedtime, which I can't remember when that was. I do know that the only place to eat in Grand Rapids after 1:30 am
is Denny's, though.
Sunday was started off by Cody of RMAX International teaching some FlowFit, and getting us more in touch with our movement, which was awesome. Then the moment we had all waited for. Bobbe did a great segment on the silat of the Sunda peoples from Java. Never as there been such a mix of laughter, smartassedness, and twisting joints. It was one of the best classes in silat I have been involved in.
Then there was a small class, followed by Grandmaster Toboada teaching some empty hand apps from Balintiwak. Another great time.
Then, the rest of the time, through Monday night was just great fun. Sharing, playing, show and tell(still), movies... the list goes on.
I had a blast, can you tell?

2007-05-12T19:30:00.000-06:00

In the series of articles I am posting, this seemed like a logical next step, to start explaining the
mindset, and methodology used with the toys we will be looking at. This article was originally written for Thrust Magazine. I hope you enjoy.

Pikal: Or why I’m a backwards knifer.
In this article, I will be discussing the use of the knife in Pikal or
reverse grip, primarily with the edge facing in, as opposed to facing
out.
Before discussing the actual usage, methodology, and reasons, a little background information, and history of this method may be in order.
The first widely examined use of the knife with edge in was done by Master at Arms James Keating ( www.jamesakeating.com ) on his 3 volume Drawpoint series of instructional videos. In Drawpoint Vol. 1, he teaches the thrust from a forward of the hip waist carry, with the edge facing inward. He then flows into rotary picking, and in subsequent volumes, expands it into Slash & Thrust and Palasut drills, taken from Filipino Martial Arts. After this, the internet forums really started becoming popular, and forums for specific activities started popping up. On the knife related forums, a gentleman by the name of Don Rearic started talking about using the knife in this manner, which I will refer to as RGEI (reverse grip edge in) for ease of use. Don ( www.donrearic.com ) was telling people how to use the knife RGEI, and it’s benefits in CQC, or Close Quarters range encounters. The miracle of the internet has been the way that it attracts like minds, and soon, another member of the forum, who preached the same message, was promoting RGEI as well. This gentleman was SouthNarc ( www.shivworks.com & www.totalprotectioninteractive.com ) .
SouthNarc produced a DVD on the subject entitled Reverse Edge Methods, and the methodology has been catching due to the work these pioneers did. Other proponents that deserve mention are Ray Floro of Australia ( www.florofighting.com ), who teaches his take on this method, and, I believe, coined the term “backwards knifer”, and Nigel February and Lloyd Dejong of the Piper system in South Africa ( www.pipersystem.com ) which is a modern African system of combat.
So, now that we have the background, the why’s need to be answered. The first question always asked is why do you hold the knife with the edge toward you, and not the enemy? The answer is both simple, and deep. The way our bodies work, we are stronger pulling then we are pushing, which means our rips and cuts will be stronger. Another reason is it allows for a ripping out and cut after the thrust. RGEI is primarily a thrusting method, the shearing cuts and rips are used to clear obstructions, such as arms, out of the way to continue thrusting.
RGEI works as a reactive application of force, and it is uniquely applicable to self defense due to the use of gross body mechanics, in every facet, from the draw, to the sewing machine like thrusting. All these actions rely on gross body movement, which due to adrenaline and stress are the easiest, and most likely to succeed in a combative self defense situation.
We draw the knife in a convulsive, full grip manner when using a fixed blade. The wrist is locked, and the knife moves immediately from draw to thrust without any chambering or preparatory movements. Simultaneous with drawing the knife while responding to an attack, we use our off, or live hand, as our defense, warding and clearing to make room for the knife to do its job. If the attacker we are defending against happens to block our counter attack, we hook and shear his arm out of the way. By having the edge of the knife in, towards us, this creates a situation where we have de-fanged the snake, and also made a new opening to launch our next series of thrusts, if required. A very important thing to remember, is that none of this occurs in a vacuum, we never forget to fully integrate our other weapons available, such as using our live hand to punch and create openings and distractions for the thrusts and shears to be effective.
Another reason this method is effective is the possibility of using the knife as a trapping method. By the edge biting into the arm, it is effectively neutralized, and easier to manipulate, if the opportunity arises.
Finally, one of the best reasons for studying RGEI is the transferability of the skills to non-edged tools. Using this methodology, since it relies on the point of the weapon, not the edge, you have a “software” downloaded in your brain that will operate with any hand held blunt weapon, such as a closed folding knife, pocket stick, pen or marker, cell phone, eyeglass case, the list is endless. The only difference would be the kind of damage done. With the knife, you will create thrusting wounds, with a blunt object, you will be making blunt force trauma on the attacker.
This is not a passive, stand back and react method, it requires rapid and overwhelming aggressiveness to overcome an attacker who has initiated a criminal assault, has the advantage of surprise, and presents a big enough threat to merit potentially lethal force.
The aggressiveness of this method is obvious from the default defensive posture, which is forward facing, and the forward drive instilled through the thrusting action.
I would recommend any one interested in a easy to learn, quick to apply, easy to retain, and highly effective method of self protection to pursue this path, you won’t be disappointed.
Terry Trahan, WeaselCraft Combatives
27 Dec 06
907 words

EDC, CC, and ruminating

2007-04-24T19:11:00.000-06:00

Alright, for those of you who know me, you know I am a proponent of armed
self defense, and the proper use of tools for the job at hand, whether that be in a self
defense, survival, or work situation. And given that the martial arts I study are, at the
very least, weapons intensive, I thought it was time to revise and add some information
to the various postings I have made here and elsewhere on the web.
The first thing to consider is what you carry and why. Have you thought through the
choices available, tried various options of carrying your chosen tools, and actually practiced accessing your tool under a stressful situation, or simulation thereof? The late Bob Kasper
had a drill I would highly recommend for finding out if you can act in time to draw your
weapon. Dress in your normal manner, and have your training partner slap at your
head aggressively while you try to fend him off and access and deploy your knife. This
could be done with any weapon or tool, and in various modes of dress. I was shocked the first time I tried this in winter clothing. Better to learn it then, in training, than on the street for real.
The choices available now in knives, guns, flashlights, and various impact weapons are truly amazing, and honestly, somewhat unneccesary. All the new supersteels are mostly marketing hype, to be truthful about it. The averager user of a knife will not notice a whit of difference between VG-10, CPM S30V, or most other steels. The designs available are there for one reason; to entice you by how it looks. For some designers and companies, it actually is important that it function, but the majority of knives sold are what I term charming cheapies,
and are solely made for looks, with performance a far afterthought, if at all. And above all, mostly irrelevant for most self defense encounters. In the end, you need a reliable lock, a sharp
edge, and a point for knife work. Now remember, I got my first job in the knife industry 8
years ago, selling them, and have been full time in the knife industry for over 3 years now.
I do not say any of this lightly, as I do buy, use, carry & collect knives of all types. But if your focus is for survival and self defense, and money is a concern, as it is for most of us, do not be intimidated or conned in to thinking you need a $300 fighting knife, when a $40 one is just as good for your needs. Only you can decide that, and you should educate yourself, and get what you think is the best for YOU, not what the magazines, salesmen, steel snobs, and theorists
try to push off on you.
The next thing to consider is what your threat status is, and what you should carry to address that. This is a very controversial subject, especially in the online SD/knife world. I have been known to carry more blades than a combine, to steal an off handed compliment I was given once.
I did this for various reasons, most of which do not apply to me anymore, so I changed my carry
routine. I no longer work or live in an area where I know violence will happen. I have a normalish life now, and for that reason, I can amp down on the poundage of steel, leather and lead. Take as much time to honestly evaluate your risk as you spend picking your carry pieces.
You should also learn the laws concerning carry where you live and work, as they may be different if you move between municipalities often. Even if you have no intention of obeying the
laws, it is better to know what they are then being ignorant and leaving your future to luck
and chance.
Coming in part two, we will look at various lights, thumpers, and other random thoughts on the wonderful world of toys tools, and talismans. I hope this helps you on your path.

2007-04-01T09:59:00.000-06:00

Just playing with the new camera, and software.

Here is a pic of me that my wife, Jae, took last week.

I really dig this photography thing, it's a blast.

22MAR07 R.I.P Pak Herman

2007-03-22T19:12:00.000-06:00

Today marks the 7th anniversary of the passing of Pendekar Herman Suwanda.

I never studied with him, or his system while he was alive, but through friends, I have
begun to learn Mande Muda, and have a greater appreciation of him, and his art.

I wish I had a chance to meet you, Pa' Herman, and the world is a better place for
you having been here, and worse off due to your passing.

test

2007-03-10T11:23:00.001-07:00

testing

The past as indicator of the future

2007-03-10T10:09:00.000-07:00

My Brother, Bobbe, has been making a series of posts on his blog, which you can
link to from my link bar, talking about the past life he used to have, and how he has
come to be where he is now. Bobbe and I have similar backgrounds, not in the details,
but in the overall. I was lucky enough to avoid the homes.
One thing that stands out in his posts, and conversations we've had about them,
is the way that we are not what was predicted for us. For the most part, we are successfull,
fairly well adjusted, albeit weird, adults. And not one person from that former life would have thought it possible.
There are things that you cannot tell people who haven't lived it, and things that no one
would ever think effect you like they do, and to those people, I say good, you do not want to
know what that life is, or what it does to you, but it does not lead to a good life, on the average.
Not many people make it out, much less end up leading a non-borderline life.

There is no amount of sympathy that can help you through this, there is just hard work, realization, tears, and the encouragement and support of close friends, who in reality
are the families we chose for ourselves. No individual comes through this alone, and you lose
a lot through the process, but it does make you more appreciative of what helped you through it.

So, in the spirit of what I am appreciative for, and all who made this possible, I'd like
to say thanks for believing in me, and giving me the strength to be what I am now;
Jae, Mushtaq, Bobbe, Marc, Don, Todd & Tiel, Brandt Bollers, the V-boys, the GPC 's,
Aaron, Erin, and many more.

First an update

2007-03-10T09:46:00.000-07:00

I guess I need to learn some better time management, and not let events control
me so much that I neglect things, like this blog.
The biggest thing that has happened since last I was here is I changed jobs. I am back
at Boker, and things are going very well. At least that part of life seems to going well,
and the stress is definately easier, especially now that I have my department under control,
and more caught up.

It looks like there will be no permanent damage to my finger, and I have full range of
motion, and no noticeable weakness. I love having the pin out, and not wearing that damn splint
any longer.

Damn, I love rock n roll. I have been lucky enough to see Tracii & LA Guns 3 times
in the last 6 months. Tracii is a great guy, and one of the most under-rated guitarists in
history.

The weather is finally getting into the spring time groove, and almost all the snow from
the blizzards is gone, at long last.

I know that my wife and friends are the greatest thing to ever happen to me, and have
helped me grow into what I am now, Thank You.

GLAM PUNK IS NOT DEAD!!!!!

Take care of yourself, it's the least you owe yourself.

A political message...

2007-01-21T11:13:00.000-07:00

... not for the easily offended. This is from the album
"Here come the Brides" by Brides of Destruction, and it sums up my
feelings about most politicians and leaders in this country.

"I can see you smile on my TV
A spewing vile necessary
Dementia of your deception

I don't wanna be the tolerant
I don't wanna pay the consequence
I don't wanna be the President
Doesn't really matter what I say
Nobody listens to us anyway
Doesn't really matter what I do
I'm so sick of you...
SHUT THE FUCK UP!!!!!

A pathetic talking head
You product of our walking dead
Your war machined evangelistic mission

I don't wanna be the tolerant
I don't wanna pay the consequence
I don't wanna be the President
Doesn't really matter what I say
Nobody listens to us anyway
Doesn't really matter what I do
I'm so sick of you...
SHUT THE FUCK UP!!!
SHUT THE FUCK UP!!!!

Shut The Fuck Up
written by: Nikki Sixx, Tracii Guns, & London LeGrande
2003

2006-11-16T19:42:00.000-07:00

I was just experimenting with the new computer, which is one of the reasons
I haven't been here lately. I will fill everyone in on the rest in due time.
I hope this picture upload works. If so, you will see a pic of the finest SD knife ever made.
I will add some more details and discuss using this unique knife later.
Hopefully you will see aLaGriffe, handmade by Mr. Fred Perrin.

Please check out this place

2006-09-13T05:42:00.000-06:00

I became aware of this charity through Nikki Sixx,
of Motley Crue fame. I researched it, and it
seems to me to be one of the best around.
Go, look, if you can, donate. More
real work needs to be done to honestly help
runaways, and homeless young people. It
is a very personal thing for me.
Goto www.covenanthouse.org
Thanks

EDC considerations

2006-07-19T19:36:00.000-06:00

Being in the online Self Defense/weapons world, I have read
time and again countless EDC (every day carry) threads, where
people list or post pics of what they carry on their person everyday.

Now, I am not going to get sanctimonious, and berate people for
carrying excessive amounts of gear, but really, do you carry it
for a purpose other than the cool factor? Do you know how to use
what you carry, can you access it in enough time for it to make
a difference and be useful? I carry, by some peoples standards,
alot of gear, but you know what? It is all thought out, includes
emergency medical and survival items, that I know how to use.
Plus, yes, I carry weapons that compliment my style of fighting.

Just remember, only buy and carry things you know how to use, and don't
buy things because someone says it's cool, or the latest greatest.
EDC should and must be personal, not groupthink based, use your brain,
study what you may need, and make good choices.

Betrayal...

2006-07-19T19:17:00.000-06:00

It seems that no matter what, no matter the medium,
betrayal is still plaguing or times.
Not just once or twice, and not just online, but this week seems to
be full of it for me.
It is making me reconsider some things, some ideas I had that were
years old. It is also making me more careful of associations I might have.
Well, we'll see how it goes, and what shapes up from this.

What makes the difference?

2006-07-17T19:29:00.000-06:00

What is it that makes a person succesful in surviving an attack?
It is not the art they study, the technique they used, or how long they
have studied. No, it is something far easier to understand, but the only thing that you can't learn from someone else.
It is simply the attitude to get it done, no matter what it takes, and go home.
The FIDO* attitude will carry you through when all else will fail you.

Do you have it?

*FIDO= Fuck It Drive On

Have you ever woken up.....

2006-07-17T19:07:00.000-06:00

.... and realized the nightmare you were having was better than the world you
awoke to?
Yeah, me too.

Happy Birthday Erin Nicole Trahan

2006-05-12T22:49:00.000-06:00

You are 15 years old today, and I miss you more than you can imagine.
Take care of yourself.

Thoughts on integration of skills

2006-04-25T19:16:00.000-06:00

First, I apologize for the rambling nature of this post, but I am having one
of those epiphany/muse moments, and want to get it down.

For many, many years, I have been involved in the modern martial arts/combatives
arena, and in the survivalist field as well. The reason for this is that I see the whole issue as having one goal, keeping my butt safe and alive.
I have many approaches to this, and have spent alot of time trying to tie
them all together into a cogent whole. If they are all covered under one umbrella,
it makes categorization easier, and it makes communication and teaching easier.
Since everyone loves labels these days, I had a lightning bolt hit me about what to call my approach to learning/training. As we all know, as evidenced by the title of my blog, what I do is called WeaselCraft. But what I do to integrate things into it is G.O.S.T. The purpose of this is not to have a cool sounding name, but
to have an easy way to explain the whys and wheretofors. G.O.S.T stands for Goal
Oriented Self preservation Training. That is the purpose of this whole exercise.
The goal is to stay alive. The ways to achieve this goal are many and varied.
It includes such things as EH combat, knives, impact weapons, guns, flexibles,
survival, E&E, trauma first aid, etc...
What we need is an over arching framework to fit all this into. I have heard this approach called eclecticism, modernism, or(one of my faves) Integrationalism.
The point is to have a way of looking at life, and skills, that makes it easy
to categorize the skill you are learning, and fit it into your framework.
We will have skills that are frontline, like the post I wrote previously on Congruency. Then we will have skills that are secondary. This means that they are important, but not as reliable, or are for specific instances. Then, we have the skills that don't seem to have any tangible, immediate payoff, such as primitive survival skills, or Tactical Medicine. Even exercise, which for me is the RMAX
approach, I highly recommend it, fits into this outlook/framework.
What we need is to integrate all our skills into our lives, and minds. It
shouldn't be a list. An example, instead of "I'm working gun now, next I'll work
on my first aid skills. Tomorrow will be my knife day, followed by my striking and grappling training", what we should try is to integrate all of them into one training package. Obviously, we need to work on individual skills, like shooting, but in our minds, we can link them, and then, take a training gun, and integrate knife work into our gun retention, and then simulate getting hit, and having to care for ourselves in a Tac-Med situation.
Like I said, this is rambling thoughts right now, but I would like some feedback, and I will rework this into a more manageable and readable article.

Dammit!!!!

2006-04-16T20:05:00.000-06:00

Well, I tried to teach myself how to do my own links,
and copied what had been put in my links for me, and it worked.

I had a lot of links to some really cool places, but then I changed my background, and lost the links. Now I don't have a way to copy them, and can't remember
how I did the linking. So to all my friends, I will try to get them back up soon.

Oh yeah, Mushtaq, HELP!!!!!!!!
Thanks.

Congruency in training, and building blocks

2006-04-16T19:11:00.000-06:00

In my opinion, training must take different forms depending on the
goals of the group you are teaching. If the group is long term martial arts students, you have time to go into more of the details of the art you
are teaching. But, if it is a short term combatives/self defense type
course, everything you teach needs to be simple, to the point, easily retained,
and, if the student wants to pursue further training later, in line with the
base art that you teach. There should be as much congruency in the movements
as possible, as well as commonalities with the art you got your material from.

My WeaselCraft is basically a stripped down version of the Silat I have learned,
and mixed with various influences, such as input from the Filipino Martial Arts.
These two dovetail very nicely, because the base of the movement is similar,
so we are less apt to get confused in the movements than is we were mixing say,
Judo and Capoiera.
We must also make sure that each movement, or concept builds upon the one before it. A good example is the first installment of the WeaselCraft package. In attempting to have congruency, I hook together the basic movements that would flow from the primary cover/defensive reaction. From a "flinch", we flow into an edge of hand blow, followed by an elbow. Why does it go in this order?
Well, From the flinch cover, the EOH blow is the easiest, most efficient,
and powerful blow we can make. But, the main reason is because we can link many
things to the motion in an EOH blow. First we can turn it into a hammerfist,
which opens different targets, and can be used with more power. Then, we can add tools to the mix, without having to learn a different movement base.
From the EOH/Hammerfist, add a knife in reverse grip edge in (RGEI), and
the motion now becomes the pikal/reverse edge methods we espouse on TPI.
Exchange the knife with a flashlight or a koppo stick, and the motion remains the same, only now, it is with an impact weapon. This brings knockout power
to the fold really quickly. And the reason I add the elbow, in case a blow misses,
the logical follow up, based on position, tools available, and direction of power would be a basically horizontal elbow, which then gets you back to the beginning,
as the termination of an elbow blow is the start of a powerful EOH. I tie this to
the basic triangle footwork, both for evasion/power generation, and also because the next step from there would be to teach sapu and beset, which happen to work off the Tiga, or triangle langkah.
So hopefully through this small explanation, you can see the logic of linking
what you teach to a common base, and then, having time later, you can add to it.
Thanks for reading.

Quirky?

2006-04-16T16:45:00.000-06:00

Your Quirk Factor: 80%

You're so quirky, it's hard for you to tell the difference between quirky and normal.No doubt about it, there's little about you that's "normal" or "average."

How Quirky Are You?

See if this one works

2006-04-16T08:52:00.000-06:00

I have tried to post a couple times recently, and knowing me,
I did something to lose them. So, I am trying a test post.

But, there are some links I'd like to put up in here to make it worthwhile
as well.

My friend Bobbe has a blog at www.currythief.blogspot.com
A really good martial artist, and all around good guy, Jay Carstensen, has his blog here
at www.ksma.blogspot.com for info on his system and group of Kapatiran Suntukan Martial Arts.
Noah Walt, publisher of Thrust Magazine, and a friend of mine has a blog at
www.thrustmagazine.blogspot.com and you should check it out.
Noah has some great knives available for sell, and his magazine is one of the best tactical
publications available.
Don Rearic, as usual has the best survival/SD info going, at www.donrearic.blogspot.com
For the internet forum activity, both Don and I moderate over at www.totalprotectioninteractive.com and it is the site for no BS street survival, or at least we try.
I have a couple silat posts almost in the can, and will try to have them up here in the next couple days, if this post works.
Take care, and thanks for reading.
Terry

WeaselCraft

13 days and a wake up

Enough of the crap

Rory Miller seminar

Two, count 'em, two seminars coming up

Hello all, difficulties and learning

New Year new way of living

A new project, come to fruition

Tossing an idea back and forth, mentally...

I'm like a proud Papa

The time of my life

Interesting times???

Some random shots

Life is full of choices...

Weirdness, life, et al...

Bet you thought I forgot

Scars

Sanctuary

Wild Weasel by Chuck Pippen

How far down the rabbit hole

WTF is wrong with people

Reworking of an old post

An update before a (hopeful) flurry of posts...

It's October

Interested in training with Rory Miller?

Great group, very worthy cause

He's baaack

Happy Birthday

Hubud Lubud, my basic understanding

Important knife law information

The Gathering '09, my view

Happy Birthday

Nice pics

New review

Required reading

Teaching, learning, and a recommendation

Bobbe ...

Hello everybody...

No computer means no posting

My position, abortion, rights in general

STFU Already

President-Elect Obama...wow

Finally, someone who upholds justice,

What friggin year is this...?!?

New DVD review; "Inverted Edge Tactics"

A great quote, stolen from a great friend

We survived

DNC happenings

ANARKOS

Well, hmmm, the economy sucks....

A quickie

Thanks for the concern...

WTFO!?!

First Amendment, it still is the law

Heartwarming

Life happens in the big city

Obtaining information

Weaselcraft profile pics

My take on the Rev. Wright "issue"

Working on some new posts

New review!!!

EDC Kit

My new tattoo

Sword & Dagger by MAA James A Keating

A quick update

Boker Plus/CLB Designs MPT

Street Knife by MAA James A Keating

One more

Some of my photos

Go read this

One of the best days ever

Happy Birthday Mushtaq

***REVIEW*** Hellbows by MAA Keating

Happy Birthday Mr. Steve Perry

Response to Aaron, my politics...

What kind of happy horseshit is this...

***Knife Review*** Ugly Knife from Tribal Edge Knives

RIP Carl

Damn, check this out!!

Just one voice saying

REVIEW Hellbows by MAA Keating

Knife Review Ugly Knife from Tribal Edge Knives