Fairbairns Combative Stick Method
“Fairbairn’s Combative Stick Method” is the definitive guide to the double handed method.
The techniques of the double handed method are the most well known of Fairbairns stick system but they are only a small part of his combative stick instruction. The Double Handed method is shown in the greatest part in Fairbairn’s books “All In Fighting²” and Self Defence for Women and Girls³” – the latter having the most complete explanation of the two works. Fairbairn’s first combative type book “Scientific Self Defence” only shows one double handed technique so it is my opinion that the techniques were developed after this book’s publication, possibly during wartime. As a method it has several things to recommend it; the techniques are gross motor, they are both easy to learn and to perform and retain under stress. The use of two hands also aids in stick retention should the weapon be grabbed or the opponent attempt a disarm. Two Hand use also allows greater control over the stick’s movement during a technique and adds to a blows focus and power.
The method became standard instruction during World War Two for SOE, & OSS agents and to the Commando, SAS, MITC, Ranger and other “Special” type forces, it was also taken up to some degree by the Military Police and even the US Marine Corps. With the exception of some Law Enforcement Agencies the double–handed method was largely forgotten after the War, one can still see some of the techniques shown in self defence books (mostly as “Self–defence using an umbrella”) to this day but it is doubtful that the authors themselves know of their true origins.