Re: Technical question about gun attack

[James Goolsby]

Aldo,

You’re right, and perhaps I didn’t explain myself good enough… shit can and does happen. But I submit that if you maintain awareness you can avoid or at least prepare for 99% of it.

To use you examples, I could be in a jewelry store, a pawn shop, or in a wal-mart; it makes no difference to me. First of all, in a smaller setting like a jewelry store, I am aware of every single person that comes in and out of that place while I am present. And I make mental notes on what I see. Of course, in a larger setting such as a wal-mart, perhaps this is not possible, but I am certainly aware of anyone in my general vicinity. Also, regardless of where I am, I always plan multiple escape routes. If I am in a restaurant, for instance, I will request to sit near an exit, and I will sit with my back to the wall so I can focus on what’s in front of me. There are many more things, but this gives you an idea.

Does all of this mean I am out of the woods and don’t need to practice and prepare for the 1% when it does hit the fan? Of course not. That is why we have SDTS and, if you choose, Krav Maga, as well as other styles. But I think the point that I (and George) were making is that it shouldn’t get that far if you can at all help it. In order to get that close to you with a gun or knife as in the example videos you show, the bad guy has to, well, get that close. The point we are making is that you should be well aware that someone is within that zone before it comes to that. Does that mean every person who gets that close is going to put a knife to your throat. No. I can think of a ton of scenarios where they might; like at a concert or game, for example. But that doesn’t mean that you’re not aware that they’re there. The whole point is to keep your head on a swivel and be prepared mentally for what might occur.

I hope that explains it a little better.