Training Equipment Selection
The instructor emphasizes using a real, sharp knife rather than rubber training knives for disarm practice. While rubber knives allow speed work, real knives create the psychological adjustment necessary for genuine threat response. Training with real blades must be conducted slowly and precisely to avoid injury.
Core Principle: Balance Disruption
The primary defense strategy involves disrupting the attacker's balance rather than engaging in a strength contest over the weapon. By shifting the attacker's brain priority from knife retention to regaining equilibrium, the grip naturally loosens. This approach is safer than attempting to overpower a strong grip.
Stroking Disarm Technique
The stroking method involves securing the attacker's wrist with one hand while using the other to stroke the knife free through controlled friction. The defending hand contacts the blade edge-safe (non-sharp) side of the knife. The motion requires firm pressure but relies on leverage rather than strength.
Lever Disarm Technique
A fulcrum is created at the base of the attacker's hand, using the knife blade itself as the lever. The defender's hand is placed flat on the spine of the blade to avoid cutting. This technique demands precision and extensive practice before real-world application.
Strike Disarm Method
The striking approach targets the attacker's hand and wrist using various impact points including the hand, leg, or knee. When close range prevents hand strikes, the elbow becomes the primary weapon due to proximity. Strikes may loosen the grip sufficiently to apply secondary disarming techniques.
Elbow Strike Application
In close quarters where the attacker is stabbing, the elbow strike is most effective due to spatial constraints. The forearm acts as a solid striking object while the body remains relaxed to transfer full body weight. Multiple elbow strikes may be necessary followed by a takedown.
Training Safety Protocol
All disarm techniques must be practiced slowly and with precision accuracy to prevent self-injury during training. Practitioners should identify specific anatomical targets before executing techniques. Avoiding training injuries is critical since performing disarms while already injured significantly increases danger.
Systema: how to disarm a knife?
Key Takeaways
- •Training Equipment Selection
- •Core Principle: Balance Disruption
- •Stroking Disarm Technique
- •Lever Disarm Technique
For more information, questions or training requests please contact is on: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TransitionCRT/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/transitioncrt/ Website: https://transition-crt.com/en/ Phone: +31627158499 In this video we explain a few basic options of how to disarm a knife.
Related Techniques
Frequently Asked Questions
What does this video teach about knife disarm?
This video covers training equipment selection, core principle: balance disruption, stroking disarm technique. It provides detailed instruction from Transition CRT.
How long does it take to learn knife disarm?
The basic mechanics can be understood in a single session, but developing reliable execution requires consistent drilling over weeks of practice. This 7-part breakdown helps structure your training by isolating each phase of the technique.
What are the key details for finishing knife disarm?
In close quarters where the attacker is stabbing, the elbow strike is most effective due to spatial constraints. The forearm acts as a solid striking object while the body remains relaxed to transfer full body weight. Multiple elbow strikes may be necessary followed by a takedown.




