Basic Right Hand Lock Entry and Hook

The instructor demonstrates the fundamental entry from a right hand lock position. After the opponent strikes, the defender clears the stick and drives the butt toward the opponent's head as a committed strike. If the opponent blocks, the defender is positioned to immediately execute a hook trap.

Vertical Stick Lock Mechanics

The vertical stick lock is executed by shooting upward while maintaining close hand proximity and applying forward wrist extension. This two-way action pins the opponent and controls their movement backward. The technique can be finished with strikes or held as a controlling position.

Free Hand Trap with Penetration

When the opponent strikes, the defender blocks and executes a straight cross with the free hand while simultaneously maintaining defensive awareness. The defender forces the action by throwing the opposite hand upward, committing the opponent to their attack. The trap is completed by diving the hand inward for control.

Stick-Based Trap Variation

Rather than performing a standard disarm, the defender dives the stick into the trap position but stops short of full extension. The defender shoots the free hand toward the opponent's head; when blocked, the stick is retrieved and locked against the opponent's trapped arm and neck.

Aboniko Combination Entry

The defender integrates the aboniko strike before executing the trap and lock. A head strike stuns the opponent, or alternatively, a hand strike reduces the opponent's defensive reaction. This combination weakens the opponent's structure before the trap is secured, or can transition into a throwing technique.

Hammer Lock from Deep Penetration

If the defender overshoots during penetration, the empty hand scoops the opponent's arm into a hammer lock position. There are two execution methods: driving the opponent to the ground with palm pressure, or maintaining an inverted palm to apply pain and direct the opponent upward using the stick as a control lever.

Hammer Lock Takedown Finish

The defender hooks behind the opponent's arm and walks them directly to the ground while maintaining stick control. This takedown variation transitions seamlessly from trap and lock positions. The opponent's stick is neutralized as the defender advances with controlled pressure.

Mastery Through Focused Practice

The instructor emphasizes that depth of skill with a limited technical arsenal surpasses superficial knowledge of numerous techniques. Practitioners should master two or three fundamental variations rather than attempt to memorize hundreds of incomplete techniques. Dedication to refining core methods produces superior practical application.

Bruce Chiu Teaching Backhand Traps and Locks from Modern Arnis

Black and Blue Video

Backhand Cut

2 min read·8 key moments·PT4M43S video

Key Takeaways

•Basic Right Hand Lock Entry and Hook
•Vertical Stick Lock Mechanics
•Free Hand Trap with Penetration
•Stick-Based Trap Variation

This is from Bruce Chiu's Instructional DVD Backhand Strikes of Modern Arnis Bruce Chiu Teaching Backhand Traps and Locks from Modern Arnis. This video was video taped and edited by myself and my company Black and Blue Video Productions, Inc.

Related Techniques

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does this video teach about backhand cut?

This video covers basic right hand lock entry and hook, vertical stick lock mechanics, free hand trap with penetration. It provides detailed instruction from Black and Blue Video.

How long does it take to learn backhand cut?

The basic mechanics can be understood in a single session, but developing reliable execution requires consistent drilling over weeks of practice. This 8-part breakdown helps structure your training by isolating each phase of the technique.