Kubotan Self Defense Techniques

Jun 14, 2011 | By Ragnar Danneskjold

One of the most popular martial arts weapons available to the general public is also one of the few legal options for daily carry by normal citizens. The kubotan was developed by legendary karate master Takayuki Kubota as a "force multiplier." Its purpose is to allow a smaller victim to use basic karate methods against a larger, stronger assailant with more effectiveness. Fortunately, many karate empty-hand techniques translate directly to use with the kubotan.

Basic Strikes

The basic striking methods of karate are more effective when performed with the kubotan. Straight punches like the leading punch and reverse punch can cause more damage to an opponent when your clenched fist is reinforced by the metal rod. The edge-of-hand blow and hammerfist strikes can become lethal when performed with the end of a kubotan protruding below the striking edge of the hand at such vulnerable areas as the temples, base of the skull and the throat.

Joint Locks

The kubotan can provide additional leverage to perform such small joint-restraint techniques as the outside wrist lock, finger locks, the chicken wing lock and even the straight arm bar. By providing something more solid than your own thumb to press the assailant's joints against, the kubotan causes excruciating pain and can even cause more efficient damage to connective tissues that hold a joint together.

Pressure Point Manipulation

Besides the basic strikes, pressure point-specific strikes and pressure can be made far more effective with the kubotan. When you use the aluminum shaft to strike an assailant in the traditional dim-mak pressure points, such as the area below the nose, the base of the jaw, behind the ear and the back of the hand, it can cause instant paralysis through the pain inflicted. Strikes to the joints of the assailant's limbs can make it possible to cause a release from a hold. Striking the back of the elbow or the back of the hand with the end of a kubotan is a quick method of getting someone to let go of you in a hurry, regardless of how big and strong they are.