Self-Defense Against an Armed Attacker: Strategies and Tactics

Self-defense in the face of an attacker with a firearm is one of the most critical but challenging situations any individual can encounter. The essence of self-preservation is to avoid the situation entirely, but nonetheless, understanding the most effective responses can be a lifesaver. In this article, we explore the principles of evasion, the importance of situational awareness, and the strategies martial arts offer for dealing with an assailant.

Evasion Tactics

The golden rule of self-defense is to not be in the place where the attack can occur. Always consider your location and the time, and whether you need to be there. Think about the risk and your surroundings. 'Indian Country,' as the saying goes, is not a place for cowboys; staying in the fort might be a better idea. Always be aware of your surroundings and who might be watching you or following you. Avoid appearing vulnerable, as attempted attacks are often opportunistic.

Preemptive Measures and Legal Implications

While self-preservation is crucial, so is legal compliance. Local laws may restrict your right to self-defense in certain circumstances. If you’re an unarmed person who has made it to this point without any preparatory measures, you should definitely reconsider your actions and choices. The overarching advice is to always practice careful planning and situational awareness. If you find yourself in a situation you definitely shouldn’t be in, the options are limited. Run, comply, or charge.

Response Options: Run, Comply, or Charge

Running might seem hopeless against a bullet, but there’s always a chance you could escape. The moral and practical considerations of fleeing must be weighed against the certainty of facing a bullet. If running is not an option, compliance might be necessary. Negotiation or placating the demands of the assailant might ensure your survival, or at least your escape from a worse fate. The last option is to charge. This is typically advised in cases of immediate life-threatening scenarios, such as when the attacker is about to kill you or is already firing. Charging can lead to a chance of control or even disarm the assailant, but the success rate is incredibly low.

Physical Tactics: Hand-to-Hand Combat and Gun Disarmament

Several martial arts teach techniques for dealing with an armed attacker. However, the most versatile and potentially successful method is to flee. If you choose to fight, understand the dynamics of evasion and physical combat. Martial arts such as Taekwondo, Judo, and Aikido offer techniques for dealing with armed attackers. Some principles to remember include the use of head butts, teeth-to-nose or teeth-to-ear attacks, and defensive techniques to prevent the trigger from being pulled or to prevent the gun from firing.

Conclusion: Preventative Measures and Preparedness

The best defense against an armed attacker is often prevention. Knowing when to avoid a situation and situational awareness are crucial. If you find yourself in a predicament you never should have been in, consider running, complying, or charging as your options. Seek to avoid the situation, and if that’s not possible, be prepared for the worst. Understanding martial arts techniques and physical combat strategies can provide you with the skills needed to defend yourself, but the first and foremost advice is to avoid the situation whenever possible.

Remember, the key to survival is often to avoid the situation in the first place. Stay alert, stay prepared, and stay safe.