Always Armed: Environmental Weaponry

As far back as the first documented battles, the great "EQUALIZER" between warriors has been weaponry. In the 21st century things remain the same. The gamut of applications range from Global Military, to Inner-City Law Enforcement, to a civilian's own personal defense.

It is common knowledge that a human's most valuable weapon is his BRAIN. A close second is the nearest inanimate object. All "REAL WORLD" martial instructors teach you that almost anything can be used as a weapon, but a statement alone does not equal training. Without training, both mental and physical, one cannot expect to create a dominant response. No matter who or where you are, you are "ALWAYS ARMED"! When someone mentions weapon, the average person pictures a "gun, knife or club" as a weapon.

Don't be average. It may one day cost you the ultimate price!

This basic outline will intellectually show you the (7) categories of "STREET DEFENSE" environmental weaponry. Once you absorb this concept, the next step is to formulate a plan of action. Each inanimate object will have one or more attributes, that if looked upon as a weapon will bring an exciting new dimension to even the most experienced street fighter. This instinct is not a new idea, but a primal one.

It is common to catch a toddler as he strikes another with whatever is in his hand. From that point on, the child hears, "Don't hit!" or "Put that down!" etc. Basically, you need to re-program yourself to the instincts you were born with.

#1 IMPACT
#2 EDGED
#3 PROJECTILE
#4 CHEMICAL
#5 COMBUSTIBLE
#6 FLEXIBLE
#7 ELECTRICAL

The mental ability to categorize your surroundings is simple. The next level is to be proficient in actual technique, and understanding of each category. The most neglected aspect of weaponry is the successful blending of your pre-existing "hand-to-hand" training; i.e.: Blocks, strikes, kicks, grappling, etc. One must not learn to rely on available weaponry, but simply not overlook other opportunities.

#1 Impact - The largest considerations of this category are material of weapon and intended target: Lethal vs. non-lethal, attacker and personal factors.

#2 Edged - Again targets will determine the outcome - fluid slashing, and/or punctures to vulnerable arteries. Human dermis is one of the most fragile of the animal kingdom.

#3 Projectile - Eye-hand coordination is another forgotten avenue of the trained warrior. To hurl an object at another with accuracy and power is key. It may make the difference between life and death. (YOURS)

#4 Chemical - Toxic, and irritating particles are all around us. Imagine what is under the kitchen counter!

#5 Combustible - This is the least available, but if recognized could be as simple as a soda can distraction or a petrol bomb.

#6 Flexible - To whip, strangle, or disarm a knife-wielding assailant with your belt. The situations are numerous.

#7 Electrical - Our high tech lives are filled with amps and voltage. The end of a power cord or battery cable could end an attack before it starts.

Exercise: Categorize the following items: 1) empty gun; 2) book; 3) can of soda; 4) purse

In closing, let me remind you that an "Empty Cup" philosophy will empower you
to absorb knowledge throughout your lifetime. The next time you look at a lamp,
you should be picturing the PERFECT WEAPON fitting all (7) categories!