Introduction to Kid McCoy's Corkscrew Technique

Kid McCoy, known as the Corkscrew Kid, was a fearless and highly successful boxer who specialized in causing pain and damage through rotational punching techniques. This instructional guide covers four distinct corkscrew punch variations that McCoy employed to create lacerations and disruption in combat.

The Corkscrew Jab

The corkscrew jab begins as a standard orthodox jab but rotates the thumb downward just before impact, creating a ripping motion. This variation keeps the face protected behind the arm, penetrates tight guards due to its inverted vertical fist position, and can be executed both offensively and defensively. The technique is particularly effective for causing lacerations and severe pain that exceeds a standard jab.

The Corkscrew Cross

The rear-hand corkscrew cross incorporates hip rotation, shoulder torque, and weight transfer while applying the same downward thumb rotation as the jab. This technique is especially effective as a counter to the body and generates significant power through integrated lower-body mechanics. The corkscrew cross serves as an excellent setup for follow-up strikes.

The Corkscrew Hook

The corkscrew hook travels vertically until impact, then rotates to horizontal, creating a ripping effect across the target. This technique excels at generating eye damage and lacerations when targeted at the face, and can be adapted for body shots by ripping horizontally across the liver and spleen region. The rotation timing distinguishes this strike from conventional hooks.

The Corkscrew Uppercut

The corkscrew uppercut begins as a standard vertical uppercut but transitions to a hammer grip at the moment of impact. This variation naturally transitions into upward elbows or throat strikes and is particularly effective when the striker has taken a knee or needs to strike upward from a compromised position.

Application and Summary

McCoy's corkscrew punching system prioritizes causing pain and lacerations to set up more powerful finishing techniques. All four variations—jab, cross, hook, and uppercut—can be applied to both head and body targets, with the cross and hook offering particular utility for body work. These techniques remain effective in bare-knuckle and light-contact systems where laceration and pain become tactically significant.

All about Kid McCoys Corkscrew Punches

Tommy Moore: Bartitsu Lab, Boxing & Gutterfighting

Corkscrew Punch

2 min read·6 key moments·PT5M23S video

Key Takeaways

•Introduction to Kid McCoy's Corkscrew Technique
•The Corkscrew Jab
•The Corkscrew Cross
•The Corkscrew Hook

Welcome to the Bartitsu Lab. Home to content covering historic and modern arts. The channel has a focus on the arts of Edwardian / Victorian Britain and the WW2 Theatre, though you will see many things outside of that too. Like what you see? Buy my Bartitsu Book here: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Modern-Bartitsu-Tommy-Joe-Moore/dp/B08SNV3H34 My WW2 book here: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Shanghai-School-Streetfighting-Defendu-combatives/dp/B091DYRB68/ref=cm_cr_arp_d_product_top?ie=UTF8 Follow me on Facebook for events, seminars, book a 121 or a seminar or just say hello! WW2 Combatives, Gutterfighting, W.E Fairbairn material, Bartitsu, Boxing, HEMA, RSBD and much more!

Related Techniques

Cross Counter Double Shift Punch Falling Step Punch Jolt Punch Power Line Punch

Frequently Asked Questions

What does this video teach about corkscrew punch?

This video covers introduction to kid mccoy's corkscrew technique, the corkscrew jab, the corkscrew cross. It provides detailed instruction from Tommy Moore: Bartitsu Lab, Boxing & Gutterfighting.

How long does it take to learn corkscrew punch?

The basic mechanics can be understood in a single session, but developing reliable execution requires consistent drilling over weeks of practice. This 6-part breakdown helps structure your training by isolating each phase of the technique.