FM 21-150 1971 Deal The first Deadly Blow

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DEALPAR'T ONE.

Section

INST INCTIVE RIFLE-BAYONETFIGHTINGRIFLE~BA YONET FlGHTING TECH-NIQUESIntroduetion _

Positions _MO,VNli.eti!ts _TRAINING F'OR RIFLE-BA YONE'FFIGHTINGTraining facUities _Preparation for training _Method of training _PUGIL TRAININGIntToduc~on _Conduct of pugil training _PugH counes __. _PUGIL EQUIPMENTIntroduction _Protective equipment and .st..iek _HAND-TO-HAND COMBATINTROUUCTION TO HANID-TO-HAND

COMBATI. Introduction _II. Priinciples _III. Vulnerahle poi.nts _IV. Available weapons _V. Training _6. BASIC HAND-TO-HAND COMBATJ. Introduction _II. Basic positions and movements _III" Method.s, of attack _J!V. Counters _V. Bayonet parries and. defense against knifeattack _7. ADVANCED HAND-TO-HAND COMBATI. Introduction _II. Fall positions _

HI. T'akedowns andi throws _IV.. Bayonet disarming _V.. Knife attack and defense _8.. SPECIALIZED SKILLSI. Irrt.roduetion _II. Hold and counters to holds _UI. Variations te throws and takedowns _IV.. Sentry sileneing _V. Prisoner searching and securing _A. REFERENC:ES _B. BAYONE'T ASSAULT COURS.E ~ _

CHAE'TD 1.

Section I.n .III.

Otr A.PTEl1 2:.Section I.II.III.

CHAPTEB 8.Section 1.II.UI.

CHAP~ 4.Section I.n.PART TWO.CHAPTER 5.

CHAPTERSection

CRAPTER,Section

CHAPI'ERSection

ApPENDIXINDEX -- _

DESEltT P BLI!CATIONSCoenville,Arizona 8632'5

ISBN: 0-87947-421-X

Pal'


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rifle-bayonet techniques described in this manual;variations in technique will be allowed if the indi-vidual's attack is effective,4. Principles of Rifle-Bayonet Fightingc. The bayonet is an effective weapon to be used,aggressively; hesitation may mean 'sudden death.The soldier must attack in a relentless assault llntilhis opponent is disabled or captured. He should be

alert to take advantage of any opening. If the op-ponent fails to present an opening, the bayonetfighter must make one by parrying his opponent'sweapon , and then drive his blade or rifle butt intothe opponent with force.

Section II.5. Generala.. The soldier holds the rifle firmly but without

tenseness, and relaxes a11 muscles not used in aparticular position. Tense muscles cause fatigue andmay tend to slow himdown. After proper training,and through practice, the soldier will instinctivelyassume the basic positions.

- 0 . AU positions and movements described in thismanual are for right-handed men. A left-handedman, or a man who desires to learn left-handedtechniques, must use the opposite hand! and foot foreach phase of the movement described ..c. Illustrations in this manu a) show the M16Alrifte with the sling tightened. All positions andmovements, however, can be executed with or with-out the magazi ne and with the sling tightened orloose. The movements are also applicable to theM14 rifle.6. B asic A ttack an d Re'sl Positionsa. Attack Position (Fig. 1).(I) Objecti1J8 aM use. This is the basic starting

position from which all attack movements origi-nate. It generally parallels a boxer's stance. Thesoldier will assume this position when running orhurdling obstacles.(2) Execution (the instruotor explains an.ddem-onstrates) .,

(a) TAKE A SHOR.T STEP FORWARDAND TO THE SIDE WITH YOUR LEFT FOOTSO THAT YOUR FEET ARE A COMFORT-ABLE DISTANCE APART.(b) HOLD YOUR BODY ERECT ORBEND SLIGHTLY FORWARD AT THE WAIST.YOUR KNEES ARE FLEXED AND YOURBODY WEIGHT IS BALANCED ON THEBALLS OF YOUR FEET ..YOUR ~IGHT. FORE-ARM IS APPROXIMATELY PARALLEL TO2

b. The attack should be made to a vulneportion of the body: the face, throat, chest,domen, or groin.c. In both training and combat, the rifle-bayofighter displays spirit by sounding off with a 1ana aggressive -growl, This instills a feeling offidence in his ability to close With and disablecapture the enemy with his rifle-bayonet.d. The in tinctive rifle-bayonet fighting sys .

is, designed to capitalize on the natural agHitycombative movements of the soldier.e. It must be emphasized that precise 1.."',..movements will NOT be stressed during trainin

POSITIONSTHE GROUND. THE LEFT ARM IS HELHIGH, GENERALLY IN'FRONT OF THE LEFSHOULDER. MAINTAIN EYE- TO-EYE CO_TACT WITH YOUR OPPONENT, WATCHI:\GHIS WEAPON AND BODY THROUGH PERPHERAL VISION.

Figure 1. Attack j)olliti(ln.


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Figure l~Continlled.(c) YOUR; RIFLE IS HELD DIAGON-

AI..LY ACROSS YOUR BODY AT A SUFFICI-ENT DISTANCE FROM THE BODY TO ADD

Sedion III.7. GeneralThe soldier win instinctively strike at openings andbecome aggressive in his attack once he has learnedto relax and has developed instinctive reflexes. Hismovements do not have to be executed in any pre-scribed order. He will achieve balance in his move-ments, be ready to strike in any direction, and keepstriking until he has disabled his opponent. Themovements explained in this section are basic tothe rifie-bayonetUghter.8.. Basic Movem,entsThere, are two basic movements used throughoutbayonet instruction. They are the whirl and thecrossover movements These movements developinstant reaction to commands andafford the in-structor maximum control of the training forma-tion while on the training field.a. Whirl Movement (Fig. 8)

(:0 Objective and use. The whirl, properly

BALANCE AND PROTECT YOU FROMENEMY BLOWS. YOUR LEFT HAND ISGRASPING THE WEAPON JUST BELOW THEUPPER SLING SWIVEL AND THE RIGHTHAND IS AT THE SMALL OF THE STOCK.THE SLING IS FACING OUTWARD AND THECUTTING :EDGE OF THE BAYONET 18TOWARD YOUR OPPONENT. BALANCE ISMOST' IMPORTANT. POSITIONS MAY VARYWITH EACH SOLDIER DUE TO CONFIGURA-TION OF THE BODY.

(3) COmnT!4M.The command used to assumethe attack position is ATTACK POSITION MOVE.(4) Periormence. Instructor gives commandand men perform movement.b. RelaxPomtion (Fig. 2).

( : : I . ) Ob je r::tiv e a nd u se . The relax poisition isused to give the soldier a chance to rest duringtraining. It also al10wshim to di~ct his attentiontoward the instructor as he discusses and demon-strates the positions and movements.

(2) Execution (the in8tr-uct01'explaim anddemonst?'ates). TO ASSUME THE RELAX POSI-TION FROM THE ATTACK POS IT ION!STRAIGHTEN THE WAIST AND KNEES ANDLO'VER THE RIFLE ACROSS THE, FRONT OFYOUR BODY BY EXTENDING THE AR,MSDOWNWARD.(3) Command. The command used to assumethe relax position is RELAX.(4) Performomce. Instructor gives commandand men perform movement.

MOVIEMENTSexecuted. allows the rifle-bayonet fighter to meet achallenge from an opponent attacking hlm from therear. At the completion of a whir] the rifle remainsin th e a tta ck : p (l sitio n .

(2) E:xecution (the instruct01' explains anddemonstrates). SPIN Y OUR BODY AROUND B YPIVOTING ON THE BALL OF THE LEADINGFOOT IN THE DIRECTION OF THE LEADINGFOOT, THUS FACING COMPLETELY ABOUT.

(3) Command. To execute the whirl move-ment the command is WHIRL.

(4) Performance. Instructor gives commandand men perform movement.b. Croseouer Movement.(1) Objective and USB. While performlngcer-

tain mowments in rifle-bayonet tra.ining, two rankswill be moving toward each other. When the menin ranks come too close to each other to .safelyexecute additional movements, the crossover is usedto separate the ranks a safe distance apart.

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Figuf'e 2' , Reia pOllition.

(B) Commands. The command used to executethe crossover is CROSSOVER.(4) Performance. Instructor gives. commandand men perform movement.

9. Attack MovementsThere are four attack movements designed to dis-able or capturethe opponent, These are the thrust,butt stroke, slash, and smash, Each of these move-ments may be used tor the initial attack or as afollowup should the initial movement fail to fmd itsmark. The men learn these movements separatelyand during subsequent training will learn to exe-cute these movements in a swift and continuousseries, During a n periods of training, the emphasiswill be on conducting natural, balanced movementsto effectively damage the target. Precise, learnedmovements will not be stressed ..(,(. Thr1tSt (Fig. 4) ..

(1) Ob je ct; i,v e a nd u se . The objective is to dis-abla or capture an opponent by thrusting the bay-onet blade into a vulnerable portion of his body,The thrust is especially effective in areas wheremovement is restricted, e.g., trenches, woods, orbuilt-up area. Itis also effective when an opponentis lying on the ground or in a foxhole.

{2) Execution (the instructor explains anddemonstrates), LUNGE FORWARD ON YOURLEADING FOOT WITHOUT LOSING YOURBALANCE, AND AT THE SAME TIME DRIVE

Figut' 9. Whirl moveme-n:t.(2) Execution (the instructor explains and

de-monstmtes). ON THE COMMAND OF CROSS-OVER, MOVE STRAIGHT FORWARD ANDPASS YOUR OPPONENT SQo THAT YOURRIGHT SHOULDER PASSES HIS RIGHTSHOULDER. CONTINUE MOVING FORWARDFOR APPROXIMATELY :SIX STEPS, HALT,AND WITHOUT COMMAND, EXEGUTE THE,WHIRL. REMAIN IN THE ATTACK POSITIONAND WAIT FOR FURTHER COMMANDSFROM l\I[E,.Note. Left handed personnel Cl"OSS left shoulder toleft shoulder.

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THE BAYONET WITH GREAT FORCE INTOANY UNGUARDED PORTION OF YOUR OP-PONENT'S BODY. TO ACCOMPLISH THIS,GRASP THE RIFLE FIRMLY WITH BOTHHANDS AND PULL THE STOCK IN CLOSE TOTHE RIGHT HIP; PARTIALLY EXTEND THELEFT ARM, GUIDING THE POINrr OF THEBAYONET IN THE GENERAL DIRECTION OFTHE OPPONENT'S BODY . QUICKLY COll,1PLETE THE EXTENSION OF THE ARMSAND BODY AS THE LEADING FOOTSTRIKES THE GROUND SO THAT THE BAY-0NET PENETRATES THE TARGET. TO


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WITHDRAW THE BAYONET, KEEP THEFEET IN PLACE, SHIFT YOUR BODYWEIGHT TO THE REAR, AND PULL REAR-WARD ALONG THE SAME LINE OF PENE-TRATION; NEXT, ASSUM.E THE ATTACKPOSITION IN PRE.PARATION TO CONTINUETHE ASSAULT.

(3) Commands. This movement is taught bythe numbers in three phases .:(a) THRUST AND HOLD, MOVE.

(b) WITHDRAW AND HOLD, MOVE.(c) ATTACK POSIT]ON, MOVE.(d) At combat speed the command isTHRUST SERIES, MOVE,(e) Training emphasis will be placed on

movement at combat speed.(4) Perfo'rrnance. Instructor gives commands

and men perform movements.b. Butt Stl'oke (Fig. Sand tJ)-(1) Dbjective (tnd use. The objective is to

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disable or capture an opponent by delivering aforceful blow to his body with the rifle butt. Theaim of the butt stroke may be the opponent'sweapon as wellas a vulnerable portion of his body.The butt stroke may be vertical, horizontal, orsomewhere between the two planes.

(2) Execution (instructor explai:n8 and clem-onsbraiee}, STEP FORWARD WITH YOURTRAILING FOOT; AT THE SAME TIME, US-ING YOUR LEFT HAND ASA PIVOT, SWINGTHE RIFLE IN AN ARC AND DRIVE THERIFLE BUTT INTO YOUR OPPONENT. TORECOVER, BRING YOUR TRAILING FOOT

(b) A 'T TA CK P OS IT IO N~ MOV E.(c) At combat speed th.eccmmand is BUTTSTROKE TO THE (head, groin, kidney) SERIES,MOVE .(d) Training emphasis will be placed onmovement at combat speed.

( 4) P e rf0 1 "'J 'Y l4 'n ce . Instructor givescommand.sand men perform movements.c. Slash (Fiu.7).(1) Objectiveandme. The objective is to dis-able or capture au. opponent by cutting him with theblade of the bayonet.(2) Execution (the i


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Figure 6. Butt eiroke to th.e gro-in.(3) Commands, The movement is tAught bythe numbers in two phases:

(a) SLASH AND HOLD, MOVE.(b) ATTACK POSITION, MOVE.(c) At combat speed the command is

SLASH SERIES. MOVE.(d) Training emphasis will be placed onmovement .a t combat speed.

(4) Performamces. Instructor gives com-mands and men perform movements.d. Smash. (Fig. 8).

(1) Obiective and use. The objective is to dis-able or capture an opponent by smashtng the riflebutt into a vulnerable portion of his body. Thesmash is frequently used as a followup to a . buttstroke and is also effective in wooded areas 01'trenches, when movement is restricted.(2) Execution (the instructor explains anddemonstrates). PUSH THE BUTT OF THERIFLE UPWARD UNTIL HORIZONTAL AND

ABOVE THE LEFT SHOULDER, WITH THEBAYONET POINTING TO YOUR REAR. SLINGUP. THE WEAPON IS APPROXIMATELYHORIZONTAL TO THE GROUND AT THISTIME. STEP FORWARD WITH THE TRAIL-ING FOOT, AS IN THE BUTT STROKE, ANDFORCEFULLY EXTEND BOTH ARMS, SLAM-MING THE RIFLE BUTT INTO THE OPPON-ENT. TO RECOVER BRING YOUR TRAILINGFOOT FORWARD AND ASSUME THE AT-TACK POSITION.

(3) Comsnamd. The movement is taught bythe numbers in two phases:(a) SMASH AND HOLD, MOVE.(b) ATTACK POSITION, MOVE.(c) At combat speed the command ISSMASH SERIES, MOVE.Cd) Training emphasis will be placed onmovement at combat speed.

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Figure '7. Slash movement.(4) Performance. Instructor gives commandsand men perform movements.

10. Defensive MovementsAt times the soldier may lose the initiative and beforced to temporarily defend himself. He may alsomeet an opponent who does not present avulner-able area to attack Therefore, he must make anopening by initiating a parry or block movement,then followup with a vicioua attack. Th.efollowupattack is immediate and violent.a. Parry Movement.0) Obiec.tiv'e and use. The objective is tocounter a thrust, throw the opponent off balance,and hit a vulnerable ar-ea of his body. Timing"

speed, and judgmentare essential factors in thesemovements,(2) Execution (insirnctorexplains and dem-onstrates) .(a) Pa,rry right (fig. 9)., IF YOUR op-

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PORENT CARRIES HIS WEAPON ON HLEFT HIP (left handed). YOU WILL PARRIT TO YOUR RIGHT. IN EXECUTION, STEFORWARD WITH YOUR LEADING FOOSTRIKE THE OPPONENT'S RIFLE, DFLEeTING IT TO YOUR RIGHT, AND FOLOWUP WITH A THRUST, SLASH, OR BUTSTROKE.

(b) Parry left (fig. 10). IF YOUR OPONENT CARRIES HIS WEAPON ON HRIGHT HIP (right handed), YOU WILL PARRIT TO YOUR LEFT. IN EXECUTION, STEFORW ARD WITH YOUR LEADING FOOSTRIKE THE, OPPONENT'S RIFLE, DFLEeTING IT TO YOUR LEFT, AND FOLOWUP WITH A THRUST, SLASH, OR BUTSTROKE.

(c) Recover1J (fig .. 11). IMMEDIATELRETURN TO THE A'fTACK POSITION AFTE


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COMPLETING THE PARRY AND FOLLOWUPATTACK.

(3) Commands, The movement is taught bythe numbers in three phases;(a) PARRY RIGHT (OR LEFT), MOVE.(b) THRUST MOVE.(c ) ATTACK POSITION, MOVE.(d) At combat speed the command isPARRY RIGHT ,(LEFT) or PARRY (RIGHT

OR LEFT) WITH FOLLOWUP ATTACK.(4) Performance. Instructor gives commands

and men perform movements.b. Block.(1) Objective and use. When surprised by anopponent, the block is used to cut off the path of

his attack by making weapon-to-weapon contact. Ablock must always be followed immediately with avicious attack.

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(2) Execution (the instructor explains a.nddemonstrates), EXTEND YOUR ARMS USINGTHE CENTER PORTION OF YOUR RIFLE ASTHE STRIKING AREA, CUT OFF THE OP-PONENT'S ATTACK BY MAKING WEAPON-TO WEAPON CONTACT. STRIKE THE OP-PONENT'S WEAPON WITH ENOUGH FORCETO THROW HIM o.FJi" BALANCE.

(a) High block (!ig. 12). EXTEND YOURARMS UPWARD AND FORWARD AT A 45ANGLE. THIS ACTION DEFLECTS AN OP-PONENT'S SLASH MOVEMENT BY CAUSINGHIS BAYONET, OR UPPER PART OF HISRIFLE, TO STRIKE AGAINST THE CENTERPORTION OF YOUR RIFLE.

(b) Low block (fig. 1$). EXTEND YOURARMS DOWNWARD AN D F ORW ARD AT AP-PROXIMATELY 150 FROM YOUR BODY. THISACTION DEFLECTS AN OPPONENT'S BUTT,


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Firru:r~!I,PaTTY ri;"At.,


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ft'iflUre 10. Parry l()/t..

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fi !~ "t . . . .

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\

STROKE AIMED AT THE GROIN BY CA.US-ING THE LOWER PART OF HIS RIFLESTOCK TO STRIKE AGAINST THE CENTERPORTION OF YOUR RIFLE.

(e) Side block: (fig. 14). EXTEND YOURARMS WITH LEFT HAND HIGH AND .RIGHTHAND LOW, THUS HOLDING THE RIFLEVERTICAL. THIS BLOCK IS DESIGNED TOSTOP A BUTT STROKE AIMED AT YOURUPPER BODY OR HEAD, PUSH THE RIFLETO YOUR LEFT TO CAUSE THE BUTT OFTHE OPPONENT'S RIFLE TO STRIKE THEGENTER PORT'ION OF YOUR RIFLE.

(d) Recoveru. COUNT'ERATTACK WITHA THRUST, BUTT STROKE, SMASH, ORSLASH.(S) Commomd. Blocks,are taught by the num-bers in two phases;

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(a) HIGH (LOW) or (SIDE) BLOMOVE.(b) ATTACK POSITION, MOVE.(e) At combat speed the command issame.Note. To minimize weapon damage durIng tring with the blocks and parrie!!, weapon-to-weepon con

must be limited to half speed. These movements, ator combat speed, can be stressed during' pugH training.

(4) Pertormomce. Instructor gives commaand men perform movements.11. Modified MovementsTwo attack movements have been modified to althe rifle-bayonet fighter to slash or thrust an opnent without removing his hand from the pigrip of the M16Al rifle should the situation dict

(1,.. MQdijie,d Thrust. The modified thrust is idtical to the thrust as described in paragraph 9a. w


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Fiyure U. Side b,lock against butt. IHr(lKe.

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the exception of the right hand grasping the pistolgrip (fig. 15).

b. Modified Slash. The modified slash is identicalto the slash as described in paragraph 9a. with theexception of the right hand grasping the pistolgrip (fig. 16).12. FollowUlpMovementsc. Obieetioe and Use. Followup movements areattack movements which naturally follow from thecompleted position of the previous movement. Ifthe initial thrust, butt stroke, smash, or slash fails

to make contact with the opponent's body, 'tsoldier should instinctively followup with addtional movements until he has disabled 01' capturethe opponent. It is Important to followup the initiattack with another aggressive action so the inititive is not lost.

b. Execution (the lnst't'ucto't' Expw.ina and Demonstrates), INSTINCT SHOULD GOVERNYOUR SELECTION OF A PARTICULAR FOLLOWUP MOVEMENT.Note .. For tndning purposes, the instructor may a

should mix UD the series of movements.

1 2 13 1 4 1 5 1 6 m . 1I"igwye 15. Modified thrust.16


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For example:(1) PARRY LEFT, BUTT STROKE TO TRE HEAD,

SMASH, SLASH, ATTACK POSITION.(2) PARRY LEFT, SLASH, BUTT STROKE ro THE

KiDNEY, ATTACK POSITION.HI) PARRY RIGHT, THRUST, BUTT' STROKE TO

THE GROIN, SLASH, ATTACK POSITION.c. Commands. Two examples of commands usingfollowup movements are:(1) PARRY LEFT (trainee executes) ,THRUST (trainee executes), BUTT STROKE TOTHE HEAD (trainee executes), SMASH (trainee

executes). SLASH (trainee executes). ATT_.\CKPOSITION (trainee assumes the attack position).(2) THRUST (trainee executes) 1THRCST(trainee executes), THRUST (trainee executes),B,UTT STROKE 'TO THE GROIN (trainee exe-cutes), SLASH (trainee executes) I ATTACKPOSITION {trainee assumes the attack position).d. All training will emphasize damage to thetarget and violent action using natural movementsas opposed to precise stereotyped movements, In-stinctive, aggressive action and balance axe thekeys to offense with the rifle and bayonet.

P'-igure 16, MQd iji.e d B la sk .

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C HAPTER 2TRAINING , F OR RIF LE-B AY ON ET F IG H T~ NG

Sect ion I. T RA IN IN G F A C IlIT IIE 5

13. GeneralAny large, fiat grassland or sand covered area issuitable for instruction of rifle-bayonet training.However, if available. the bayonet training courtshould be utilized to allow the men to make targetcontact.14. Bayonet Training CourtThe bayonet training court consists. of 72 multi-purpose bayonet targets and an instructor's plat-form (fig. 17). and win accommodate 288 men.The bayonet training court provides a training areaorganized for decentralized, supervised practice ofthe basic skills; however, the men may be movedquickly into an area around the instructor's plat-form to be shown demonstrations of the variouspositions and movements. There should also beample room within the training court to execu.te

movements without the use 01 targets by utilizingthe interval between targets.15. Multipurpose, Bayonet Talrgeta. The rnultipurposa bayonet target (fig. 18)1 isconstructed so that two men can work against

opposite sides of the target simultaneously exceptduring practice of the butt stroke or smash move-ments to the head. This training: aid provides ameans of practicing the thrust, parries, slash; orsmash against a realistically proportioned target.and is designed to minimize weapon damage andinjury to the men.

b. When movements are taught which do notinvolve the pan"y, the parry arms should be latchedto the sides of the targets.

c. Construction details of the target are illus-trated in figure 19. Training Aid Centers may ob-tam detailed plans for construction of these targets.

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I f ~.5 M E .TE RS,I

+ + + + + +! + + + + + i -~1L~ir1~-~ - - + 1 + + + + + + + + +15 M E TE RS

+ + +l+1 + + + + + + + +1.5 M E TE R STARGETS t

~f'5 ,2 M E TE R S: t

( PLtlTFORM)

+ + + + + + + + t + + + +15 METEIRS+ + + + + + + - +{+ + + +t

1 115 METERS

+~++ + +t+ + + + + + + IL 1 . 5 ,METERS ~C OU RT S O U N []RY, FigU'I'61'1. Ba1lrnr.et oourt layout.20


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8 . 0 0 I( 1 4RUBBER TIRE

BU1T STROKETARGET

SLASH/BUTTSTROKE SH IELD

PARRY ARM LAM INA TED RUB B IE RTH RUST TA.R'G,ET

III II \ CONCRETE POURED, ~ B ,ELOW GROUHDI..EVELI ' I \I._---._ ) _..)

--_ 1//---..YDetailed blueprints for target construction may be obtained by Army Training Aids Centers, and major units. ReljJueststor quantities of bluep~ints cO'piesshould be consolidated prior to submitting requests. Requests will be I!ent to the Com-manding General, 3d US Army, ATTN: DeS O&T, Fort McPherson, Ga. 30330.

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MOVE, a l I I students reform on the basedoubletlme) and assume the position of attermen,(3) To form for more detailed mstru .

the instructor stands in front of the two ranksdirects the flanks to dose towards the center.produees a three-sided formation which enablesentire group to hear the conference or seedemonstration. At the end of the instructioninstructor directs, BACK TO YOUR PLACES.18. Fix and Unfix Bayonetsa. Safety. For safety reasons commands for FIX

and UNFIX BAYONETS should be given by theassistant instructor assigned to each group of men.b, Cadence. These movements aloe not executed

in cadence.c. Exec:u.tion (the Instructor Explains and Dem-onstrates).(1) THE' COMMAND IS FIX BAYONETS,AND IT IS EXECUTED ONLY FROM ORDER

ARMS OR UNSLING ARMS. ON THE COMMAND OF EXECUTION, BAYONETS, GRASPTHE BARREL, RAISE THE WEAPON SLIGHTLY, PLACE THE BUTT OF THE WEAPON BETWEEN THE FEET, MOVE THE MUZZLE OFTHE WEAPON TO THE LEFT FRONT. ANDREGRASP THE BARREL WITH THE LEFTHAND. WITH THE RIGHT HAND UNSNAPTHE SECURING STRAP ON THE SCABBARDAND WITHDRAW THE BAYONET. TURNTHE POINT UP AND ATTACH THE BAYONET TO THE WEAPON. WHILE ENGAGINGTHE BAYONET STUD ON THE RIFLE WITHTHE BASE OF THE BAYONET, GRASP THEBAYONET HANDLE AND APPLY DOWNWARD PRESSURE UNTIL A CLICK ISHEARD, FOLLOWED BY LnUTED UPWARDPRESSURE TO INSURE THAT THE BAYONET IS SEATED SECURELY. RESNAP THESCABB,ARD SECURING STRAP AND RESUMETHE POSITION OF ORDER ARMS.(2) TO UNFIX THE BAYONET THECOMMAND IS UNFIX, BAYONETS. ON THECOMMAND OF EXECUTION, BAYONETS,PLACE THE BUTT OF THE W,EAPON BE-TWEEN THE FEET, MOVE THE MUZZLE TOTHE LEFT, AND SECURE IT WITH THELEFT HAND. WITH THE RIGHT HAND UNSNAP THE SCABBARD SECURING STRAP.NOW RELEASE THE BAYONET FROM THEBAYONET STUD WITH THE RIGHT HANDAND REMOVE THE BAYONET FROM THEMUZZLE. KEEPING YOUR EYES ON THEBAYONET POINT, RETURN IT TO THESCABBARD, lNSERTING IT WITH THE RING

Section III. PREPARAtiON F OR TR AIN IN G16. CommandsInstruction in rifle-bayonet training is by com-mand. Commands are used in maintaining controland to teach instant response. However, instructorsshould not expect instant and exact response duringearly training as men must first learn the skills ..a. Commands are of tVIO types; by the numbers,andwithout the,numbers.

(1) By tlw numbers. Commands by the nUID-bers may be used if necessary, however this methodof instruction should be used only when studentsshow they lack sufficient coordination to executethe movements while working from slow motion tocombat (normal) speed.(2) Without the numbers. Whole commandsindicate the men are to execute the entire move-ment as commanded. The speed may be slow Ini-

tially, and as men learn the movements, speed in-creases to a fast or combat rate.b. Appropriate commands for all positions andmovements are incorporated in descriptions as con-tained in chapter one of this manual.

17. f'ormationsa. Baytmet Training Court.(H The principal instrnctnr will take his posi-tion with a demonstrator on the instructor's plat.form and designate areas of responsibility for hisassistant instructors on the court. It is reeom-mended that there be a minimum of one assistantinstructor per 15 students to provide adequate

supervision.(2) Students are moved onto the trainingcourt, and four students assigned to each target(fig. 20).b, Extended Ba.yonetTraining Formation.( 1) When a training court is not availableeach platoon forms in two ranks at normal interval

(fig, 21). On the assistant instructor's commandthe men fix bayonets and. assume the attack posi-tion. The principal instructor commands FORMFOR BAYONE'T TRAINING. MOVE, at whichtime the rear rank extends to the left taking up athree-step in terval. Each front rank man double-times to his left, front to secure a three-step intervaland moves about 12 steps from the man who wasbehind him, executes a whirl, adjusts his positionif needed. and remains in the attack position. Anmen growl w:hile moving.

Note. Instructors will insure that proper interval isconstantly maintained to avoid injury.(2) To assemble the group, the instructorcommands ASSEMBLE. ,MOVE. At the command,

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FACING TO THE FRONT. RESNAP THE SE-CURING STRAP AND RESUME ORDERARMS.Note. For safe'ty purposes, if the bayonet appul'Sdifficult to remove, stick the point into the ground, -bendover, and depress the catch with the left hand whiJepull-

ing upward on the weapon with the right hand.19. Wa rm,up ExercisesWarmup exercises at the beginning of rifle-bayonettraining periods relax the men. and help developtheir muscle coordination. Five or ten minutesshould be allotted for these exercises. Anexcelllentwarmup exercise :is to practice the basic positionsand the crossover movement prior to actual train-'ing in the various attack movements, such as the'thrust.20. Tra~ningEmphasisa. The instructor should encourage the men togrowl. Noise, however, is no substitute for enthusi-asm or ability.b. The men should be in fairly good physical con-dition. before they begin bayonet training.c.. The instructor explains and demonstratesbriefly and clearly. He and his assistants first dem-onstrate the movements in slow motion and explainso that 'each movement is clear. Then they demon-strate by the numbers so that each part of themovement can be understood. This is followed bya demonstration of the movement at combat speed.\d. The instructor stresses speedbalance, timing.and. distance judgment .. Since a tense soldier can-not fight effectively with his rifle and bayonet, the

instructor also stresses muscle relaxation.e, Each man must think and act for himself.Therefore, the instructor should, avoid the harmful

practice of turning rifle and bayonet practice inta drill.21. Care of Weapon

n, Prior to rifle-bayonet training the men musremove the maintenance equipment from the bustock of the M14 and M16 rifles. (Recent production models of M16 have an equipment stowagcompartment on the stock.) This will prevent injuries should the stowage compartment door of thbutt plate open and the equipment come out accdentally.

b. Training personnel must remind! men armewith the MI6 rifle to maintain a firm grip on thsmall of the stock to prevent injury to the hanby the forward assist assembly.c. Care must be exercised to teach proper assauland withdrawal of thrusts made at targets in whicthe bayonet penetrates the target. Improper assaulor withdrawal may damage the M14 or M16,Arifles ..In running assault courses the distance fromassault position to target must be gauged properlyat the time of the thrust. If the man is too closethe target at the time of penetration, the forwardmomentum of the body causes the arms to push thbutt of the rifle to the side. The force of such actiocould damage the barrel of the riffe. Ifwithdrawalis improper (not straight to the rear), or if sideward force is exerted on the rifle before withdrawal is complete; the weapon may be damagedThis may occur as the man begins his movementoward the next target, prior to a clean withdrawalfrom the current target. These faults are tendencieof beginners who. in their haste, fail to properlygauge distance or fail to perform a proper withdrawal,

Sadio" III. METHOD OF TRAINING22. Sequence of TrainingClasses conducted on the training court generallyshould be organized in the following manner:a. Explanation and demonstration of a skin withthe men grouped around the instructors platform ..; b . The men practice in ranks between targets,not using the targets (fig. 20).e, The men practice using the targets (fig. 21).

23. Centrola. Strict control of all activities must be main-tained by the Instructor on the platform. Adequateloudspeakers should be installed to carry commandsclearly to all portions of the training court.b. The men must be numbered in the following

24

manner (fig, 2'1): No.1 and No.2 men on onside of the target, No. 3 and No. 4 men on thother side of the target. When the men are practicing on the targets. all commands must be preceded by the designation of the man (or menexpected to execute the movement; for example: ipracticing the thrust, the command could be onnNUMBERS, THRUST, MOVE:. Or, in the case othe movement using the butt stroke to the headNUMBER THREE, PARRY LEFT, BUTTSTROKE TO THE: HEAD, MOVE. Throughouta class, periodic checks should be made by the instructor to insure that the men remember theiassigned numbers. The men respond to only thoscommands which apply to their number.

,0 . To insure that close attention is paid to th


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instructor, conversations between the men shouldnot be permitted unless the coach and pupil methodof instruction is being used.24. Supervi$ionAdequate supervision during practice is obtainedby providing one assistant instructor per 15 men.Assistant.instructcrs should correct errors and bealert for safety hazards. Assistant instructorsshould also watch for malfunctioning targets andeither immediately repair the targets or shift themen to open targets.25. Safety(t, The .safety of the men should be a constant

concern of the instructor and his assistants, Thebest safety aids are constant control and super-vision, In addition, the men should be briefed atthe beginning of each class on the requirements forsafety during rifle-bayonet training, Bayonets mustbe fixed and. unfixed only on command.

b. Rifles should be grounded near the targetswith the operating rod handles facing upward whenthe men are ordered to move to the instructor'splatform for explanations or demonstrations,c .. An even, level surface that does not becomeslippery when wet should be provided for thet.raining court.d. Left-handed men should be positioned so thatthey are opposite another left-handed individual

when working against the targets. This typearrangement will prevent possible injuries aseries of movements are executed.e. When using the M16AI rifle against a ~the force of contact during the thrust movemen

may drive the hand, gripping the small of the ~toc:k..into the forward assist assembly (on the rigtt sideof the weapon neal' the stock). To prevent injury tothe hand, a firm grip must be maintained on thf i!small of the stock j gloves should be worn as partof the training uniform when weather dictates..26. Continued Train~n.g

,{t. Tomaintain proficiency in rifie-bavonet fight.ing, unit commanders must continue training. Suchtraining should consist of 30 minutes o O f practice 2days per week, These periods will deal with pugiJtraining and other training procedures of a variedand vigorous nature.b. To retrain the correct procedures and coordi-nation, practice the movements first by the num-

bers and then in slow motion. Increase the pacein order to develop speed, accuracy, and aggressive-ness.e. Throughout bayonet training. the men are

trained to detect and strike instantly at any open-ing. Training developes coordination between theeyes and muscles thus producing mental and phys-kat alertness.


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%W:l:oU)Q-z< C3;~u,W.J

~ 88 ."~ ..,,%Z EIQ..wo -_

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E JElE J,8E IElE JE JE JE JE1EJE JElE J8ElE J18

26

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E JE JE JE JBBElF-RE JE JEE J~BaREE JE JB

6BE JBE JBElE JBE J

...J-e>Ill::WI-Z~ zO


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MEN

[2J~t:2 METE R$+-i-[iJ [2]

/TARGET'~ +

2 METeRS[~]_l IT]8ORMATION WHEN f'RACTIHG WITHO'UT T A '~ CETS

+ +,0

oF O o RM AtI ON W HIE N PI< ACT IC ING W 11TH T A liC E T S[2] POSITION Of STUDENi WITH A~51C;NED NUMB'ER+ M lIl..llP UR PO ~E 6A Y ON ET T AR G eT

Figure M. F'QTnMLtion wn,tm proc!:icing with tarpeta.

+0,

[~]

+

27


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PUGIL TRAININGSection I. INtR,ODUCTION

27. GeneralPugit training isa means of teaching the soldierto use the rifle-bayonet with confidence and aggres- -slveness. Mter the soldier has become proficient inthe basic positions. and movements with the rifle-bayonet, he should then b e introduced to puglltraining. Realism in rifle-bayonet training is pro-vided by using pugil equipment. The use of thisequipment furnishes the rifle-bayonet fighter withan opponent" or target, who can think, move, beevasive, fight back, and (most importa.nt) makecorrections (fig. 22) .28. Value of Pugil Training

a .. Since pugil training is a rugged contact ac-tivity, the participants must remain alert. Theyact and react from instinct, thus affording anopportunity to develop their individual rifle-bayonetfighting skills, Little effort is required of the in-structor to motivate participants: the pugil stick isthe motivating force. Much. physical benefit is de-rived from pugil training, as well as the develop-ment of the aggressive menta] spirit so essential ifthe rifle-bayonet :fi.ghter is to be successful incombat.b. Several factors must be considered to gainmaximum effectiveness from pugil training. Thesefactors include training, control, supervision, safe-ty. and protective equipment (chap. 4).

29. Traininga. The rifle-bayonet fighter should be taught thebasile positions and movements, as well as the series

of followup movements, with the rifle-bayonet be-fore beginniug pugil training.b. The pugil stick (chap. 4) I for maximum train-

ing benefit, should approximate the length and theweight of the MI6 rifle with bayonet attached.Substitution of the pugil stick for the rifle providesan opportunity to improve skill and test the indi-vidual's ability to perform against a realistic,evasive target. All the positions and movementswith the pugil stick are the same as with the rifleand bayonet (flg, 23).

Figure .2f. Ma'"'-to-m.a.n (tontact ill vosBible with.pugil equipment.

29


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Fivure ~I. POllitiQn.B ,and 17Wvementll wit '" the pu.yil diekare th"e lIame lUI' wit.htM rilk.


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When such a blow is struck a whistle is used to stopthe round. At the end of a round contestants Jl1(i~eback to their respective lines. assume the attaekpositioIl1and wait for the signal to start the nextround. The contestant who wins two of the threerounds wins the bout.

c. A contestant should be encouraged to move inaggressively and attack violentlv, using any of'theattack movements learned during rifle-bayonettraining. If he misses, or his opponent sidesteps,he should lrnmediately foUowlUipuntil he has landeda b l O ' W to ' a vulnerable spot.d. ,Motivation is no problem in pugH training.The man who hesitates to strike his opponent re-alizes that defeat can be quick and will tty aggres-sive]Y to overcome his opponent in the shortest

possible time.e, Competition in pugil training is keen. Due tothe nature of the two-man bouts, a s.quad, platoon,

Section II. CONDUCT Of PI,IGIL TRAINING30. Warmup Roulnc lIn the early stages of pugjl training, maximumbenefit is gained by working with platoon-sizegrOl.nps (or sma]}er) in a circular formation. Twomen engage in a pugH bout in the center of thecircle. Critiques are conducted so that all may n e a r nfrom the 'Observed mistakes, AU members of thegroup should participate. in as many bouts as neces-sary to gain proficiency prior to going on to moreadvanced training. Tne platoon forms a circle atdouble-arm interval Two contestants and one in-structor are in the center. The contestants assumeth.eattack position 12,steps. from each other. In thefirst round they are allowed to mix-it-up. The pur;.pose is to prove to contestants that the equipmentwill provide ample protection from a hard, blow.Immediately aiter the /W8nnUp round, the contes-tants wi]] engage, in graded bouts.31. G.raded BoUhfl.. During the graded bouts (:fig". 24) the OJ)-

ponents face each other 12 steps apart. The bouteonststs of three rounds .. 'The instructor should bein a position where he can best control the bout. Toseore a point or win a round, a contestant mustseorea solid blow with either end! of the pugilstiekto a vulnerable point. e.g., the head, throat, chest,SWDlach, or groin regions.b. To start .3; bout or a round the instructorwe the whistle and the contestants move toward

each other in the attack. A point isawarded to thema.n striking the first disabling blow. A dlisa.blingblow is determined to be amy blow that is deliveredto the vulnerable parts of the opponentjs body.

and finally a company champion may be selected ..Competition should be encouraged by instructorswhenever possible throughout the pugH trainingprogram.32. Control,. S'upervilion, and Safetyit. Instructors supervising pugil training mustunderstand Us values and limttatlons, The instruc-

tor maintainscontrol of the bout at all times: hisbest method of control. is by blowing a whistle tostart and stop action. He is alert to prevent wild5wingirng' of the pugil sticks, and insures that thecontestants keep their eyes on each other. For safe.,

31


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ty reasons men should be paired who are approxi-mately the same height and weight.

'0 . Contestants use only the positions and move-ments that they have been taught in rifle-bayonettarining. The stick must be held in the same man-ner, and blows delivered, as with the rifle-bayanet,c. One instructor is necessary for each bout.Additional assiatance is required to supervise, thefitting and exchange of equipment. During the fit-ting process instructors insure that equipment isproperly fitted. Instructors constantly observe todetermine any loose or broken equipment. Im-mediately upon detection of insecure equipment,the instructor stops the bout to prevent possibleinjuries, After deficiencies have been corrected. theround is resumed.

Sect i ian I n .33. Human Th.rusting Targ8' CourseAfter several t > . .'o-man bouts, the rifle-bayonet1i,ghter is ready for the human thrusting targetcourse. Eight to ten men are lined up in file 12.steps apart, Each man is designed by the instructorto act as a specific type target. The rifle-bayenetfighter,also in pugil gear, walks to each humantarget. moving with the pugi] stick at the attackposition. As the rifle-bayonet 'fighter approaches anopponent, the opponent shouts the movement thatthe rifle-bayonet fighter is to execute e.,g.,THRUST. SLASH, BUTT STROKE. Mterexecut-ing the movement the rffle-bayonet fighter pauseslong enough for the instructor to make corrections,then he moves on to the next "target.YThe numberof "walk throughs' is dependent on each man'sability to execute the movements correctly , Next,

32

d. The instructor insists that theeonte.stantgrowl during the Couts; this adds to their aggrsiveness and wi1l tend to reduce tension.

.e. Individuals who have had 'prior medical prolem-ssuch as hernias" frequent headaches, previobrain concussions, recent tooth extractions, or crent lacerations containing stitches must beeluded from pugiJ training for ,saietyreasonTherefore, before conducting pugll training itneeessary to screen individual medical recordsdetermine if anyone should be eliminated froparticipetion, Ffnally always. be alert for theexpected, and if in doubt stop the bout immediateto prevent injury.

PUGl l COURSEShe runs through the course at full speed, growliand executing the called movements with maximuforce against his rive opponents, D-utiesare rotatso that all men act as fighters and as humtargets .34. Human Th"usting Assault Cou l r se ,A qualification-type course can be conductedtlDeasure the proficiency of each man. This coushould. approximate an obstacle course in lengobstacles, and terrain. In laying out the cO'IJI.lrSe taadvantage of natural obstacles such as streamditches, hills, and thick woods. Soldiers cladpugil equipment can be p'laeedamong the obstaclto act as human targets. The remaining membeof the unit, clad in pugil equipment, w m negotiaall obstacles and human t.argets using instinctivrifle- bayonet fighting movements.


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C H APTER 4PU G IL EQ UIPMENT

:Sectioln I. INTRODUCTION

Section II. PROTECTIVE EQU IPMENt AND ST ICK

35. GeneralProtective equipment should allow the soldier toparticipate, without either incurring or fearinginjury. Being able to participate without the fea~of injury will help the soldier to develop an indi-vidual style of fighting and :improve his abUity tofight with the rifle and bayonet. The areas whichmust be protected include the head and face, groin,and hands. The equipment described below is de-signed to prevent injuries.36. Securing Pugil EquipmentThe pugil sticks and groin aprons are constructedlocany by training aida personnel. The helmet with

37. HeadgearThis includes a football helmet with a stainless,steel face mask (fig. 26).

(1;, Footbatt Helmet. When purchasing these hel-mets, due consideration should be given to thevariation in the head size of individuals. For each100 helmets purchased it is recommended that 10percent be G Y 2 to 6%. in size, 80 percent be 6%, to7S'in size, and 10 percent be 7% to 71,4 in size.Helmets that are too large for an individual canbe adjusted to fit by adding foam rubber to theInside of the helmet. A ehlnstrap made of vinylplastic. and foam rubber is used to secure the helmetto the head.b. Proteetioe Face Mask Svecij ieati0'n8.

(1) The! protective' face mask is made ofl.4,-inclil round stainless steel rods that are weJdedtogether by electric are welds at all joining andintersecting points. The mask shall consist of a rearframe an.d a bottom frame to which three verticaland two horizontal rods are attached (fig. 27).(2) The face mask is constructed accordingto directions (fig. 27). A vertical rod is attachedon each side of the center rod. 211;.nches to theaide of the center rod.

face mask attached, gloves, and protecti l,"ecup are commercial items of nonstock type25). Nonstandard stock numbers are usedt O o identify these commercial items and thev areobtained through local purchase. To secure p'equipment which meets standards of protectionsafety, the supplier or contractor must be awareof the specifications as contained in paragra37, 38, and 39. It should be noted that the maskis attached to the helmet in such manner that themask will move somewhat when struck. This fea-ture dispenses some of the shock that would betransmitted to the head and neck. should the maskbe fastened tightly to the helmet.

(3) Two horizontal rods are used to reinforcethe vertical rods. The upper of these rods is at-tached to the rear frame, at each side where therear frame bends. and is attached on the under sideof the vertical bars. The lower horizontal bar ex-tends :from one vertical side bar to the other pass-ing under the center vertical bar. This bar is oneinch above the base established by the bottomframe.(4)1 The forward curve of the mask (fig. 27)is formed by:

(it) The contour of the rear frame as itcurves downward toward the wearer's ears. Thiscurve is formed on a radius of 3% inches measuredfrom a point 2~ inches above a base line formedby the bottom frame.

(b) The shape of the upper horizontal bar,which has a radius of 33,4 inches measured from apoint 11,4, inches forward of the base line.

(c) The curve of the bottom I l 'Ame whichis on a radius of 41;8 inches. measured from a point4 inches forward of the base line.(5) The curve of the center vertical rod isestablished by a radius of 63/4 inches as measuredfrom a point 1% inches forward of the vertical

3S


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base line and 1 ; 2 inch below the horizontal base line.The two side vertical rods are curved on a radiusof 612 inches measured from a point 11,4 inchesforward of the vertical base line and 14 inchesow the horizontal base line (fig. 27).(6) Additional dimensions are included on

e drawings which indicate the overall size of themask (fig. 27 and 28) .

c. Attachment of tke Protective Face Ma8the Helmet (fig. 28).

(1) The protective face mask 1 '8 to be attacto . the front of the helmet at three points, topter, right side, and left side.

(2) The attachment is to . be made by meof 2-inch wide leather, industrial stock. 3/16 inc

34

Figure :6. Pugil equipme-nt.

Figure 26. Pugilluladgear.


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PLAN

r .Ase "-IHENOTE :T O f AC I L .I 'T A TE THE U SE (IF lA~ OU lT JIG S ,I)'IMEHSIONS TO tERMIt>!AL. POIt>!TSOF ClURVEDMeJ ," -E lE R RAO I I A R E "!V'Et>! ! 'I IJOM BASE I .I ~E 5_

'" .,

F R O N TB A SE I .I IU

SIDERE-EHFORCII'IG R!NG

S - E C n O Ii A A

THE REA!! fR .... E Ar


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15 ..

12 "

6 1 2"

3'4"

1 i 2 '

10 3 4"

Fi{TUTe 28. Fuo ffla 8k a ttack ed to 1z .elm (1 tIn thickness, smooeh side out. The leather anchoris to be folded with the rod held between the foldsand both ends of the leather anchor securely fas-tened to the helmet.

(3) The center leather anchor is 2 incheswide by 314 inches long, A hole % of an inchin diameter is cut in the center of the leatheranchor. A slot is cut from one end of the anchorto the center hole. This slot is to be 7/16 of an inchwide. Four additional holes are punched, two ateach end of the leather, 1 h inch from the sides and%, of an inch from the ends, These holes are to be,of Va-inchdiameter.36

(4) The side leather anchors are identicand measure Z inches wide by 3 inches long. Twholes are punched in each end of the anchor,inch from the sides and 7/1.6-inch from the endThe holes are to be s inch in diameter.

(5) The mask is attached to the center potion of the helmet, which protects the foreheadby boring two holes in the helmet for the attachment of the leather anchor. The slot end of th'anchor is inserted over the center :rodof the masand under the rear frame. The remaining endthe anchor then is folded so that the holes in boends correspond with the holes in the helmet. Th


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ar:chOl"then is secured with two chase copper rivetsand burl'S. The rivet is diameter 10, length % inch._-\ny other self-locking rustproof fastener that pre-sents a fiat surface both on the interior and ex-t.eriorof the helmet, and of equal size and strengthttl the Chase copper rivet as prescribed, may beused. The rivet passes through the helmet and bothends of the anchor.(6) The mask is attached to each side of thehelmet at that portion of the rear frame whichparallels the front edge of the ear 'piece of the

helmet. The method of attachment of the mask tothe helmet is des]gned to permit some movementof the mask when a blow is received on tile mask.The 2% inch section of the rear frame at the placeof attachment provides a 1 ; 2 inch exposed port'ion ofrod after the anchor is secured. The anchor is at-tached so that the upper joi nt of this section or rod(the junction of rear frame and the upper hori-zontal rod) rests on the top edge of the anchor.Such placement of the anchor permits a t;2-inchupward movement of the mask. The aide anchors

Fi,,'U~ eg . Can"V(Ugroin apron and protective cup.

37


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axe attached by the same method as prescribed forthe center attachment" using the anchors as de-scribed in (2) above and the same type of fasten-ers as described in (15) above'.d. Mask Pad Specifications. A molded foam.rubber mask pad (fig. 28) is to be attached to thelower portion of the mask. The rubber used in thispad. iisto measure 611 2 inches in length, 10/4,inchesin width, and %, of an inch in thickness. The padis to contain two canvas web straps Y 2 inch :iinwidth with a metal snap on each strap for theattachment of the pad to the front lower portionof the bottom frame of the mask. The strapa are tobe of such length as to tightly secure the pad to the

.-_ - . . _ . " . . . . _

""7' ---~ _

mask. This pad protects the upper chest whenmask is forced inward by a frontal blow.38. Orroin EquipmentThe groin is protected by a canvas apron wcontains a protective cup of the variety useathletic competition. It is worn over the oclothing' so that it can be put on and takenquickly on the training field. Duck cloth cottorecommended for use in making the apron.terial such aa salvaged shelter halves and stents may be used provided that the fabric isdurable (fig. 29) .

tI I) ,I II I; ( II I ,,I r IIII L Itv I ,I ,I r:

Figu.r~!lf). La.ero.'u glovu.

38


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Hand Eqluipmentrosse gloves arsreeommended for use in pugilintng, These gloves provide maximum protectionr the fingers and joints of the hands and wrist:IJldaid in controlling the stick (fi,g.:80).

40. Pu,gil Sticka. Gem.eral. Materials needed for the construe..

tinn of the pugil atick are shown in figur~ 31.. Forfurther protection the center ;shaft of the pugil_ .ek may be covered with sponge rubber leavingspace for handholds. 'I'o make light sticks heavier,rubber such as contained in vehicle tire tubes, maybe wrapped around the center of the stick undere sponge sheet material.

b . COt1s truc tion Procedures. Steps used in theconstruction of the pugil stick are listed belowand.!bOW]} in figure 32..

(1) Step 1. Shape stick to required dimen-ions.

(2) Step 2. Lay a polyfoam sheet (2.inchhick, 5 inches wide. and" feet long) on a :flatf'!urfaceand roll it as tight as possible. Roll two ofthese pieces and place one roll at each end of thestick. Apply rubber 'cement to the binding surface&a you roll it.

(3) Step 3. To prepare the blade end of. the

stick lay a thick polyfoam sheet (2~i.nchI1h feet wide, and 12 feet long). on a flat sur face.a.pply rubber cement to the binding side, andas tight as possible around the core formed byend of the stick and small polyfoam roll, Secureroll with rubber bands. Let it dry for at least 2-lhours (fig. 32).(4) S.tep 4. To prepare the butt of the stickcut a polyfoam sheet to . the tapered dimensions uindicated in figure 32:and then follow step 3 above,

(5) Step 5. Construct canvas bags 6 inches .diameter and 14 inches in length. Use the Frenchstitch as shown in figure 32 for added strength inthe seams.(6) Step s, Place the canvas bag over oneend of an adjustable sleeve, such as No. 28 gaugesheet metal or stovepipe of the type used in militarymesshalls, On the opposite end. inserl U te polyfoanrend of the stick (fig. 33). Apply the necessary pres-sure to the body of the sleeve; push the stick intothe canvas bag; and remove the metal sleeve.

(7)1 St~ 7. Secure the canvas bag to the stickwith No.4 screen tacks. Cut off excess canvas afterassembly.

(8) Step 8. Cover No.4 screen tacks withstrip of cardboard.

(9)1 Step 9. Cover the strips (cardboard) withblack plastic tape,

3.


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" , "I 2"X5 X4-0POLYFOo.M ROLL

I,

I 2"' XI" 2"' )(12:0"'------- POLY FOAM ROLLED AROUf'..D (;OF\,iE ---------'

OF STICr


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18"- r

3 0"

STEP NO.31 rIt 11 I :I'" J( 1


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L......., .-....~ .. _

42


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PAIRT TWOH AND -TO ..H AND C OM BAT

CHAPTER 5INTRODUCTION TO HAND -TO ..HAND COM BAT

Sedion J . INTRODUCTION

41. Purpose and ScopeHand-to-hand combat is an engagement betweentwo or more persons in a struggle with or withouthand-held weapons, The average soldier, if trainedonly in the use of his basic weapon, loses his effec-iveness if his weapon faHs to fire, or if he shouldlose or break it. A knowledge of hand-to-handfighting provides the soldier with another means ofaccomplishing his, mission, and also permits himrn defend himself if he is unarmed, Although theprimary reason for training in hand-to-hand com-bat is to develop a proficient hand-tc-hand fighter,!:his training has several other significant advan-tages,a. It builds a spirit of aggressivenesa in theindividual soIdler and instills the will to fight. It

gives him confidence inhis ability and develops hisphysical fitness.b. It becomes another means of' accomplishingassigned missions when the fighting becomes 8 0 0intermingled between friendly and enemy person-el that firearms and grenades would be impractical

to use for fear of injury to friendly troops.c. It is valuable for night patrols and otheroccasions when silent attack is required, Because,of the threat of air assault. guerrilla warfare, orinfiltration, hand-to-hand fighting is taught toseldiers in rear areas as well as to those in front-

line units.42,. Hisloryof Hall1d..to-Hand CombG l ta. Hand-to-hand combat is as old as the firststruggle between two eave men. For thousands ofyears it has provided soldiers and civilians witha means of defending themeelveasbould they beattacked and no weapons were readily available forthem to use.b. It is believed that the first attempt to organizeand develop hand-to-hand fighting techniques took

place in China around 3,000 B . C , The Chineseemperor at that time taught a method of unarmeddefense to his subjects who we e being harassedcontinually by outside invaders,c. Historians believe a similar system of fightingalso was developed by Tibetan monks during the12th century A.D. These monks were forbiddenby thei r religion to C8ilTY weapons, and a. methodof defense was needed to repel the robber bands ofthat era.d. Both the Chinese and Tibetan forms of fight-ing are distant ancestors of modern judo andkarate . .Judo and karate generally are t'egardd bythe American public as mysterious and deadlyarts. They are difficult skills to learn and indi-viduals must practice for great lengths of time be-

fore they become proficient in these martial arts.Army hand-to-hand techniques are simpler, andare better suited to our needs and to the time avail-able for hand-to-hand combat training.e. Very little hand-to-hand combat was taughtto American soldiers during WWI. However, dur-ing WWII civilian-trained instructors worked withArmy personnel to develop methods of unarmed at-tack and defense, as well as other related skins. Thetechniques consisted mainly of escapes from holds,application of holds, and methods of disarming anarmed man. Specialized units, such as rangers and

military police, received instruction in knife fight-ing, strangulation, and other subjects.J. T.he present Army system of hand-to-handcombat, outlined in this manual, Is a combination ofthe strong points of several systems, It is designed

to provide the soldier with a number of actionswhich he can take if contrcnteo by an opponent.The skills are not difficult to learn, and are veryeffective if properly applied. If mastered, they pro-vide the soldier with a method of pressing his at-tack and disabling his opponent.43


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Sedion III.43. GeneralThere are three basic principles which apply' tohand-to-hand fighting. These are balance, mo-mentum, and leverage. In the execution of anyfighting techniques, one or more of these principlesmust be used in erder to successfully defeat anopponent. In the following paragraphs. these prin-ciples are outlined as objective guidelines for theindividual fighter to follow.44. Balarlll:ea. Balance. Balance is a basic motor skill, It isthe ability to resist the downward pull of gravityand maintain an upright position in everyday ac-tivjties such as running or walking. This skill is ofprimary importance to an individual engaged in astruggle. When in an off-balance position an indi-vidual cannot press an effective attack or ade-quately defend himself from his opponent's attack.

It is' vital for the hand-to-hand fighter to under-stand balance in two important aspects:(1) How to strengthen and maintain his bal-ance during a struggle.(2) How to exploit the weakness of theenemy's balance to his advantage.

b. Maintaining YOU?' Bolance. The proceduresoutlined in this manual consist of norma] positionsand simple movements. When executed properlyand through constant practice, these movementswill aid the fighter in maintaining his balance. Twogeneral rules which will help the fighter to maintainand strengthen his balance are:(1) Keep a large base of support. When as-sum:ing a guard position, always insure the feet areapproximately shoulder width apart. either side-ward or from front to rear', The fighter alwaysshould remember that if his feet are too far a:parthis overall balance will ~ weakened; also, if hisfeet are positioned too close together his balancewill be weakened from all directions.

(2) Lower your center of gravity. Flex yourknees to lower the center of gra.vity, this win in-crease your stability and make it more difficult foryour opponent to place you in an unbalancedposi-tion ..

IPRINCIPlESc. Exp,Wting Your Opponent's Weaknflss.(1) The good hand-to-hand fighter will loo

fC)1 ' weak points in the opponent's defense and takfun advantage of them by attacking ruthlesslydisable his opponent.(2) The aggressive use of a11available weapons will place your opponent on the defense. Onyour opponent is on the defense, continue to prethe attack until your opponent is disabled or halost his will to continue the fight.45. Mamenluma. Anytime your opponent's body is movingpossesses momentum. Momentum. is the tendencof a moving object to continue moving unlesstopped by another force,b. You should apply this principle of momentumin hand-to-hand fighting. Use your opponent's mmentum to your advantage. This momentum alonwill not defeat him, but. by using it against him yocan put y01llr opponent in a vulnerable position. Foexample. you can trip him while his is running,step aside as he swings at you. In order for himto continue his attack he must stop his motion anturn to face you.c, Always assume that your opponent is strongethan you, never oppose him directly in a test ostrength. Instead, use his momentum to assist yoin defeating him.

46. leveragea. Leverage, as it applies to the hand-to-haadfighter, is using some part of your body or youopponent's body as a level' in order to place youopponent ,at a definite diisadvantage. For exampleshould your opponent extend his arm toward yoin a striking motion, this will provide a part of h

body to which you can readily apply leveragedisable him, or force him to the ground where hwould be in . a vulnerable position.b. The hand-to-hand fighter also can use hbody as a lever to place his opponent in a . positioto receive follow up blows. For example, in the hithrow the fighter uses his own hip to support thweight of his opponent before flexing his knees anthrowing his opponent to the ground.

S ection III. V UL NERAIB L'E POINTS47. GeneralVulnerable points are areas of the body which areparticularly susceptible to blows or pressure (fig'.34). Since your life is at stake, you should forget44

any concept of fair play, and attack these vulnerable points. Striking your opponent in a vulnerablarea may cause him to drop his defense tempor.arily, thus leaving him open to receive your foHowup blows to other parts of his body. The importan


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srable points of the body are discussed below.41. Vulnerable Points:of the H'ead and

k Regiona.. Eyes, Blows W the ey,eswill cause temporary~ permanent bliindness and intense pain.b. Nose. Blows to the nose cause intense patnand watering of the eyes.c. Ecw$ . Sharp, heavy blows can cause brainconcussion. Lesser blows: can cause shock or result

in ruptured eardrumsand internal bleeding.

f. Temple. Forceful hand blows to the t.may cause loss of consciousness and could resdeath.49. Vulnerable Points of the 1runka. Collarbone. A broken collarbone willintense pain and will disable the attached arm.b. Solar Plexu, A sharp blow to tihe Bolarple:!will cause shock, breathlessness, and possible . -

ternal injuries.e, Stllmach. A sharp blow to the stomach alsowill cause breathlessness and possible internal in-juries ..

~ .... ""''_ NOSE-::r---__YES

STOM ACH ~~ --~ ~ A RM J OIN TS

I N S T E P

d. Nwpe of the Neck. A blow to the nape ofthe neck may cause temporary ]0138 of conscious-ness. If you strike with great force you can breakhis spine.e. A,dam's Apple. A blow to the Adam's appleusually causes pain and breathlessness. If such ablow is delivered forcefully. the Adam's apple maybe crushed and the opponent will strangle.

d. Kidneys. Forceful blows to the kidneys wincause intense pain, shock, and internal injuries.e. Sp'ine. Vigorous blows can dislocate the verte-brae' of the spine, pinching or severtng the spina]cord, and causing intense pain or paralysis./. G-roin. The groin is a very accessible target.Striking' the groin will cause extreme pain anddisability.

. . 5


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so . Vulnerable Points of the limbsBlows to the limbs will cause intense pain and dis-ability.a. Arms. Using blows it is difficult to disable the

arms of a standing opponent. The bones of his

arms and hands can be broken by using certainprocedures discussed later in this manual.b. Legs. A kick to the shin is. very painful. Thsmall bones of the ankle and foot can be brokencrippling your opponent. The knee bends in onldirection, and its tendons and cartilage can be tornby kicks to the side or front of the knee.

Sedion IV. AVAILABLE WEAIPONS51. GeneralIn hand-to-hand fighting your life is always atstake, therefore, you must use any available objectas a weapon ' 1 : 0 help you subdue your opponent.Available weapons are classified as band-held andnatural52. Hand-Held Weapon!sThere are several objects whichusually are avail-able to the soldier on the! battlefield to aid him inovercoming his opponent.a. Steel Helmet. A steel helmet can be used todeliver blows, or as a shield to ' ward off blows fromthe opponent,b. Web Equipme-nt. Full web equipment v u s u -ally is heavy and could be used to ward off anarmed opponent or possi bly disarm him.c. Entrenching Toa~. This tool can be used todeliver deadly or disabling blows to the opponent'sbody.d. Sa1td or Dirt. The good hand-to-hand fight-er can find several objects to ' help him in his attack,

and is limited in the use of available weapons onlyby his own imagination. Sand or dirt thrown at acharging opponent could upset his attack and createan opening allowing you to counterattack.53. Naturall WeaponsIf nothing can be found with which to strike youropponent, or if there is not enough time to pick upan object, use the natural weapons of your body.The most dangerous natura] weapons which asoldier can 1IlS'e are his hands and his feet.a. Use of the Hands. Most soldiers are famil-

iar with using their hand, particularly the fist, infights. There are, however, a number of other andmore effective weapons which can be formed bythe hand. Each of these weapons is suited for at-tacking certain vulnerable parts of the body. Thefighter should be familiar with these weapons, andbe able to select and use that weapon which. is mostsuited to the particular situation. These weaponsare described below and their effective employmentis discussed.

(l) Modified f i . . < ; t (D, fig. 35). Make a fist as'OU normally would. with the thumb curled between

the second and third knuckles of the fingers. However, position the fist in relation to-the wrist andforearm so that the striking surfaces are the largeknuckles of the first two fingers, Insure thatsolid, straight column of bone exists between thstriking surface, the wrist. the bones of the forearm, and the elbow. By positioning the fist in thimanner you will create a smaller, more penetratingstriking surface, and will minimize the possibilityof injuring your hand. Use the modified fist whenpenetrating or shattering blow is desired. such awhen attacking the face, chest, or kidneys.(2) Padded fist (@, fig. 35). Form a fist, buuse the meaty portion of the fist between the wrisbones and. the large' knuckle on the little finger sidof the hand as the striking surface. Strike down,W31'd as though you were using a hammer. By tenslngthe muscles of the forearm and hand, and touching the striking surface with the fingers of thother hand, you wHi realize that your hand will nobe injured easily. Use the paddled fist whencrushing 01' shattering blow is desired, such awhen attacking the temple, the nose, the nape othe neck, or the groin.(3) Snw.. l l fist (, fig. 35). The average fis(not the padded or the modified fist) covers aarea of approximately 8 square inches. To formthe "small fist" fold the fingers at the seconknuckle (8) to make a striking surface of abou4 square iinches. A sharper, more penetrating hlowmay be delivered. Press the thumb tightly againsthe forefinger to stiffen your fingers, and keep thbones of the wrist, hand, and forearm in a straightline. The small fist is particularly effective wheused in quick, jabbing attacks to the nose, Adam'sapple, solar plexus, and stomach.

(4) Knife edge of the hand(G), fig. 35,). Extend and! join the fingers and position th,e thumbbeside and slightly above the forefinger. Do nostrike with the little fmgeh' because it rpay bbroken. Strike with the meaty portion of the littlfinger edge of the hand, between the first knuckle0 ' the little finger and the bones of the wrist. Thknife edge of the hand is used effeeti vely whenpenetrating or shattering blow is desired, such awhen attacking the nose, nape of the neck. Adam'sapple, collarbone, spine, or kidneys.


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C D

Figure $5. Nlwrrd "Wea.p 'Ql1 "


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< 5) Fingertips (. fig..35). Extend and jointhe fingers. with the thumb beside the forefinger ..Use the tips of the fingers as the striking surface.This weapon should be used only against soft tar-gets because the bones of the fingers can be brokenrelatively easily ..Strilk:e the eyes, the Adam's apple,or the stomach.(6) Heet o{ the hand (, fig.. 35). The heelof the hand is an excellent weapon with which tostrike your opponent's chin or nose,b.. Use of the Feet. The feet are extremely dan-gerous natural weapons because they are attachedto powerful muscles and strong bones in the leg.They are also protected by heavy boots ( C D , fig.35).

(1) Toe. The Army boot provides excellentprotection for the fragile bones of the toe. Use thetoe of the boot as the striking surface if you desireto strike a penetrating blow.

Sectionl V.54. GeneralThe hand-to-hand combat part of thi.s manual isdivided into four chapters in order that the soldiercan progress in his .ability to execute the variouspositions and movements expected of him at eachskill level. Training should be conducted at eachlevel.a. Basic SkiU Leeel.(1) At this level the soldier receives his fiest

insight into the Army's hand-to-hand combat train-ing program. Training at tills level is relativelysimple to learn, Correct application of the basicpositions and movements is of primary Importance ..Speed is important : however, aeeuraey and foreemust never be sacrificed for speed.

(2) During this basic phase the soldier learnsprineiples and techniques which guide all hand-to-hand training. These: principles and techniquesmust always be applied in order to become a goodhand-to-hand fighter.b.. Advanced and SpecitJ1,ized Skill Levels.. Dur-ing this level (s) of training speed is equally as im-portant as accuracy and force. In the basic phasethe soldier was concerned primarilY with learningand executing basic positions and movements. Inthe advanced and specialized phases of training themovements become more difficult to learn and moretime should be devoted to training than was allottedduring the basic phase.55. Maior Points to Remember inHand-To-Handl Traini!ng

a. Always use the principles and techniques ofhand-to-hand fighting as outlined in this manual.48

(2) Outside edge of the boot. The edgethe boot is an excellent weapon for attacking tlower Legregion of the body.

(3) Heel. The heel of the boot can be usto deliver shattering blows. Itis particularly effetive when you have thrown or knocked yourponent to the ground.c. Use of Othe'l' Pa'rts of the Body as a Weapo(1) The hand-to-hand fighter also can u

his head to butt his opponent in order to breclose contact with him.(.2) The teeth are an excellent; natural weapo

and are particularly effective when used agaiI!the throat, face area, and fingers ..

(3) The elbows and knees can be driven forcfully into the enemy's vulnerable area and are higly effective when in a situation where the fighdesires to break contact with his opponent.

TRAININGb. To execute the skins . 0 . hand-to-hand comb

effectively, accuracy of movement is of primarimportance,i:. Force must always. be used in order tocontrthe actions of an opponent,d. When an opponent is in a vulnerable potion, always press the attack by using follow

blows to disable him.56. The InstructorThe instructor should be in good phy.sica! conditioand must be able to demonstrate al] the maneuvedescribed in this manual, He must display intenenthusiasm, vigor, and leadership qualities attimes that win inspire the best efforts of the mbeing trained. He should train assistant instructorto closely supervise all practieal work and t(l l deonstrate advanced maneu verso57. Generc:dSafety PrecautionsThe following safety precautions must be followstrictly during all training in unarrnedeombat,

a .. Supervise all practical work closely and estanUy. Never leave a class unsupervised.b. Familiarize the students with each maneuvby a . complete explanation and demonstrationfore attempting praetical work.c. During the learning stages, do not letstudents .get ahead of your instruction. Tprevents accidents.d. During the stages of learning and perfectitechniques. the training partner offers no resance. He should allow the maneuver to be execufreely,


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e. Insure adequate space for all practical work.space at least 8 feet square is needed f01" eachof students.

f. Ha.ve the students empty their pockets andemove jewelry, identification tags, or glasses- be-ore practical work periods.8. Specific Safety Precautionsa. Vu~nerablePoints. Stress that only simulatedlows tv the, eyes or groin area are executed. Light

to other vulnerable points may be used dur-ng the initial practical work. Ali students becomeore advanced, harder blows may be used. In ordero avoid injuries, students must always be cau-against using excessive force.

b. Fall Positisms, Throws, and Holds.(1) Establish a signal that can be given byhe individual student to stop the applieaeion ofressure when practicing holds. A1Jstudents mu stthis signal, particularly when practicingtrangle holds. This signal can be a handclasp if

ands are free; a handtap on his training partnerbe used when both hands are not free.(2) Be sure all students are warmed up be-ore doing any practical work.(3) Teach fall positions before conductingractical work in throws.(4) Caution the students to apply very lightressure until they become familiar with the holds.trangle holds should never be applied with force.ther holds may be applied with more pressure asaining progresses.e. Disarming.

(1) While the men are learning bayonet dis-rming methods, keep scabbards on and the bay-net firmly attached to the rifles..(2) Use bayonet scabbards to simulate kniveshile:giving knife disarming instruction.(3) Caution the students who are to be dis-rmed not to place their finger in the tri.gger guardf their pisto] or rifle while practicing disarmingethods with these weapons,9. Formations

- a . Regulation physical training formations mayused for practice (FM 21-:20). In the extendedlatoon formation have the first and third ranksace the second and fourth ra.m so that each stu-ent will have a partner. Even numbered studentsnot uncover. Itis recommended. when practicinghrows, that twice the normal distance be takentween ranks.b. To instruct disarming methods, it is recom-ended that the instructor use a formation of two

train:in,g circles or a formation that em-loys on1y two well-extended ranks, In forming

the concentric training circle. pair off the studentsso that each will have a partner.60. Commandsa. Most of the maneuvers described in thismanual can be divided into several steps or phases.To facilitate learning and to insure tha.t the studentlearns each movement of an entire maneuver accu-rately, each maneuver is presented by phases.b. For example, the right hip throw is. a three-phase maneuver, In. the first phase the studentplaces his left foot in front of and s1ightly to theinside of his opponent's left foot. At the same time,

he strikes his opponent on his right shoulder andgrabs his clothing. The command for this movementis RIGHT HIP THROW. PHASE ONE. MOVE.At the command MOVE the student executes phaseone and holds his position until given subsequentcommands, These commands are PHASE TWO(THREE), MOVE. When the student has becomeproficient in the movements, you can work: forspeed. The phases of the maneuver are combinedinto a continuous movement by commandingRIGHT HIP THROW. MOVE. At first, the maneu-ver is executed slowly. Students gain speed throughconstant practice.c. Paragraph 115 explains a counter against thelong b~yonet thrust, This disarming method isdivided into four phases. For the first phase (para

USb U) ). the armed student is given the prepara-tory command THRUST. and the unarmed studentis given the preparatory command OVER LEGCOUNTER, PHASE ONE, MOVE. Since youwant both students to halt their movements and re-main in position. for a subsequent command. youmust remind your students to "hold" at the end ofeach phase. The next two pha.ses of the movementare executed while the armed student is extended inth long thrust. The command for the second phase(para 115b 1(2), is PHASE TWO. MOVE. Thecommand for the third. phase (para 115.b (3. iPHASE THREE, MOVE. The movement is com-pleted with the command, PHASE FOUR, MOVE.as specified in paragraph 115b (4), (5) and (6 .The command for executing this disarming maneu-ver is OVER LEG COUNTER, MOVE.61. Exercisea. Recommendations for Wa'1"mup Exerci: _Use combative exercises, grass drills, and tum-bling exercises to warmup your men. The aggres-si ve nature of these warmup drills lends itselfthe spirit of hand-to-hand combat (FM 21-20).b. Recommended DriU fOT Pa.rry Exerci&e.s.is important that your students be trained inbayonet disarming parry movements. before ptieing the disarming methods, To do this, have


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paired students assume their respectiveguard posi-tions with the chin of the unarmed men 6 to 8inches from the bayonet point. The srmec studentstands fast in the guard position during the entireexercise. The unarmed student, on command, par-ries the bayonet first to the right and then to theleft. As he parries to the right, he sidesteps to hisleft obliq 11 8 with his left foot, brings his right foot'slightly to the rear of his left. and faces the side ofthe rifle. When he parries left, he sidesteps with hisright foot to his right oblique.62. Training Pita. The most suitable area. for teaching fall posi-tions, throws, and eounters is a sawdust pit. Youcan obtain sawdust at most military installations.

Figure 36 shows a training area with a sawdust'pit surrounding an instructor-demonstrator plat-form. The pit will accommodate 1(110pairs of stu-dents.

FBI the area with sawdust. Do not use wood shaings because they tend to settle and form a hasurface.c. Build a demonstratiion area, 14 feet squarin the center of the pit area ..Construct retaininwalls with sandbags, four bags high, and fill tinside with sawdust. This platform is big enoughhold two demonstrators and the instructor.d. The students gather around the platformtowatch the demonstrations.

63. Other lraining Areasa.. Any large grassy or sandy area is suitablfor work in disarming methods and throws. Stdents should be taught fall positions before pe

forming throws on a. hard, grassy area.b. Classes in unarmed combat can a]80 be coducted indoors, but; the floors and Wang shouldmatted. An area 8 feet square should be allotted f

SAWDUSTFILL

S OU M IDHORN

U ' X 14 ' IIAHDBAG WALLIMSTRUCTOR 'S ' ....- 4 B A 'G 5 H IG H ,PL.ATFORM ..'-.Jf

SOUNDHORN

SAWDUSTFH_l

Figu.re 38, Hand-to-hand tmining plt.b. To construet a pit dig out the pit area to adepth of 18 inches or build a retaining wall of dirtor sandbags 18 inches high around the pit area.

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each pair of students. The difficulty indoors is thonly a small group of men can participate at otime as most indoor areas are restricted in size.


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C HAPTE R 6BAS IC H AN D-TO -H AN D ,C OM BA T

Section I. INTRODUCTION

64. PurposeApplication of the basic system of hand-to-handcombat is designed for the basic combat trainee orfor the soldier who has received no previous hand-to-hand combat instruction. The skills of this sys-tem are simple to learn and proficiency can bemaintained with a minimum of practice.65. ScopeThis chapter outlines the techniques of basic hand-to-hand combat and stresses ,simple,aggressivetactics with which to subdue an opponent. It de-scribes the various kicks, blows. takedowns, coun-ters, and other movements used to disable: or kill anopponent in hand-to-hand fighting. Because thebasic skills are few in number and are simple in na-ture, these skins are appropriate to the trainiingschedule allowances fQr hand-to-hand combat in-struction during the basic phase of combat training.

66. Aggressive .Actiona. The most successful band-to-hand tighter uses

an aggressive approach. He strikes with speed andsurprise and at the same time employs the princi-ples of balance, momentum, and leverage, Whenconfronted with an unarmed opponent you initiallyshould remain outside of the range to be graspedor struck by him. At the same time you should!maneuver into position to deliver an aggressivekicking attack. If the opponent's ability to attackis not destroyed or upset and the distance is closedto eliminate the possibility of kicking, then. a take-down or blow to a vital area must follow quickly.

b. The opponent's approach can determine yourcourse of action. For example, ifhe is armed with arifle and bayonet. or possesses another band-heldweapon, you must take different action than if hewere unarmed, Likewise if no opportunity accursfor kicking you must take other action to attack.

S ection II. B AS IC POS ITIONS AND MOVEMEN.TS67. GeneralIn order to maintain your balance and provideyourself with all-round protection. there are guardpositions which must be mastered. Two factors con-trol the selection of the guard position to be used:flrst is your choice of offensive maneuver, andsecond is the desired degree of protection to yourvulnerable areas ..

68. GU:Q.rdPositionsu. Objective and Use. 'TIle objective of a guardposition is to be alert and in the proper positionto execute the desired maneuver. Guard positionsare assumed any time a . protective and ready posi-tion is appropriate.b. Description: Side GwJ.rds.(1) Right guard. To assume the rigih1i:.guard!position. the right side of tlhe body is facing youropponent; feet are spread shoulder width apart;

the toes are pointed directly to the front; knees

flexed; and body held erect. The arma ara flexedwith the forearms at a 450 angle. right arm 1ead-jng, left arm held in front of the neck region. Thefingers are extended and joined: eyes are on yOUl'opponent. The majority of the body weight isplaced on the left foot . V i fig. 37) .

(2) Left gu.ard. The left guard position isthe same as the right guard position except thatthe left arm is leading, right arm in front of theneck region, and the majority of the body weight ison the rightt foot (, fig. 37).

(3) F~()nt guard. To assume the front guardposition, face, directly toward your opponent,spread your feet shoulder width apart with yourleft foot a.nd heel of that foot generally on linewith your right toe. Bend your body forwardslightly at the waist and flex the knees. Hold thehands approximately 6, i nches in front of the facewith the fingertips at ey-elevel. The knife edges ofyour hands are leading with the palms facing in-

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ward (fig'. 38). This position is similar to a boxer'scrouch. Ifyou are left-handed, reverse this positionand.bring your left foot to the rear and your rightfoot forward,c. Changing Gua,rd. Positions. Some maneuversare best executed from the, side guard (right orleft), and others from the front guard, As a gen-eral rule kicks are delivered most effectively froma side guard and throws and. takedowns are accom-plished best from the front guard. To change guard

position the following appropriate action is taken.(1) Rear guard moventent. In order to meet

an. opponent approaching from your rear; youmust reverse quickly your right or left guard posi-tion. This is accomplished by quickly reversing thepositien of your arms and head to face the newdirection. The weight of your body is: shifted tothe rear foot at the same time the head and armsare moved,

(2) Move from side guard to front gua7 'd.Itis a simple matter to move from either the rightor left guard position to the front guard. To.changeposition pivot on the ball of the front foot andmove the rear foot forward to the position as pre-scribed for the front guard, also adjust the posi-tion of the hands accordingly. To change fromfront -glllard to right guard. move your right footforward, turn the right side to your opponent, and

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adjust the position of your hands, To. change frofront guard to left guard reverse the procedure.d. Instruciio a.ndComma.nds. Guard positioare taught as whole movements. When readypractice, the command RIGHT GUARD,_ LEFGUARD, or FRONT GUARD is given as desirThe command REAR GUARD is used to facethe real." from either right or left guard positionTo move from a side guard to front guard or vversa. simply command the desired guard po.sitto be assumed. For example, to change from froguard, to. ri.ght guard, the command is RIGHGUARD.69.G'lideThe glide is a movement used to gain distance froor to close with your opponent. To gain distanfrom yOUl' opponent, take a long step away frhim and immediately slide you!' leading foot binto the proper position. To close with your opnent, take a stride toward him and slide your traing foot forward into the proper position. Alwassume a guard position after each movement Tglide is not a hop; always t.ry to maintsdncontabetween the ground and the balls of your feet.movements should be executed quickly and smooly; The commands, are REAR GLIDE; MOVE"gain distance from an opponent, and FORWARGLIDE, MOVE, to' close with the opponent.


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5

.Seetio:n lilt METHODS OF AnACK10. Kicksand StompsThe most dangerona natural weApons a . man NS-sesses are his feet and hands; kicka generally formthe frontline of the attack. Other skins are taughtto be used when the kick fails or is inappropri.ate.Every attempt is made to maintain kicking dis-tanee in any encounter with an opponent. If theopponent is allowed to close and grapple, as in judoor wrestling, the larger and/or stronger of theoppeneuts will have the advantage.

72. P'ivo,tKicka. Objective (lirulUse. The objective ]8 to bringan -'opponent to . the groun.d with a kick to the groin

or stomaeh region. 'The pivot kickis used when the:opponent's groin region is turned to the side and,guarded, The pivot kick may be executed fromeither guard position. The proper guard positionto assume is determined by the direction in whi.chthe-'.oppon.ent is facing. This. kick is more powerfulthan tile side kick and CAnbeexecuted ata greaterdistance from your opponent.b. Description. 'To execute this kick from theright guard position ( 1 ) , fig 40) pivot sharply tothe right on the right foot, at the same time draw-

7 1; .: S ide K i c ka . . . Objective a.nd Use. The objective is to bring'the opponent to the ground with a kick to the groinor stomach region. This kick is used when the op-

ponent is facing you with the front o:f his bodyunguarded,b. Description. The side kick may be executedfrom either the l'ilght or 1~ guard position ( C D .

fig. 39). In executing this kick; the knee is pulledup ina flexed posi

FM 21-150 1971 Deal The first Deadly Blow

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Transcript of FM 21-150 1971 Deal The first Deadly Blow