Knife Fighting Techniques, Tips & Guides


A knife fight or duel is a fight in which each combatant is armed with a knife.

It is similar to a swordfight, except that knives are much shorter than swords, resulting in the combatants engaging at closer ranges.

There are many martial and military systems of knife fighting, which are usually distinguished by region and culture of origin. Proponents of knife fighting systems utilize sparring and drills to hone their skills. This practice is rooted in historical effectiveness where knife fights were more common.

Knife fighting is also emerging and quickly growing as a sport known as knife fencing where simulated knives are used to strike scoring zones for points.

The following knife fighting handbooks and how-to’s detail how to engage in a knife fight, disarm an attacker who is armed with a knife and various stances and methods of combat.

Covering many different angles and areas of this dangerous art, these handbooks provide the reader with a comprehensive understanding of knife fighting.

An Assessment Of Human Performance In Stabbing

An Assessment Of Human Performance In Stabbing

This paper describes tests to determine the energy range and characteristics of stabbing actions that might be directed against stab resistant body armour by an assailant. The energy and velocity that can be achieved in stabbing actions has been determined for a number of sample populations.

Bayonet Training Manual

Bayonet Training Manual

This is the complete US army training manual on bayonet combat. Through training, the fighting skill of a soldier is developed to the highest point.

Biomechanics Of Knife Stab Attacks

Biomechanics Of Knife Stab Attacks

Read all about the bio-mechanics of knife stab attacks using high-tech equipment in this comprehensive document. A six–camera Vicon motion analysis system was used to measure velocity, and derive energy and momentum during the approach phase of the attack and a specially developed force–measuring knife was used to measure three–dimensional forces and torque during the impact phase.

Cold Steel

Cold Steel

Emphasizing the practice aspect of bayonet, knife and stick fighting, this rare volume also provides short courses in unarmed combat and knife throwing.

Fighting With a Tomahawk

Fighting With a Tomahawk

This how–to is an introduction to tomahawk fighting. It covers such topics as: selecting a tomahawk, stances, advantages, disadvantages, different strikes, defense and more.

Metallurgy of Steel for Bladesmiths

Metallurgy of Steel for Bladesmiths

This extremely well written handbook is a must for anyone interested in the properties of iron and steel. Even more invaluable for anyone planning on making their own blades. This handbook is written in easy to understand laymen terms and illustrated throughout.

Old Sword Play – Systems Of Fence

Old Sword Play – Systems Of Fence

Learn everything there is to know about historical swordsmanship in this detailed compilation of sixteenth, seventeenth, and eighteenth century fencing techniques. Including complete information on the Rapier and Dagger, Two hand Sword, or Broadsword and Handbuckler and provides information on various combination’s.

The Fairbairn Manual of Knife Fighting

The Fairbairn Manual of Knife Fighting

This manual details tried and tested methods of knife fighting from one of the most qualified and experienced knife fighters in the world. He has gained a black belt at the prestigious Kodokan Jui–Jitsu University and served as Chief Instructor in Close Combat Fighting to the Shanghai Municipal Police, British Commandos and the Office of Strategic Services, U.S.A.