The Do's and Don'ts of Close Combat
by Tank Todd, Army Special Forces C.Q.B. Master Chief Instructor
pocket sized- 9cm x 13cm - 56 pages - illustrated

Introduction

 The following is a collection of sound principles and tactics for information purposes only for the realist or true professional.

I have had the privilege of being instructor trained and qualified by Col. Rex Applegate, Charles Nelson, and Harry Baldock - all evolutionary pioneers of Military Close Combat, law enforcement training, and civilian self defence. I am trained and instructor qualified by such current Close Combat leaders as Capt. Ben Mangels, and Lawrence Jordan. From Col. Applegate I learnt the skills of the British experts, Fairbairn and Sykes, and the Applegate System of Close Combat, and from Charles Nelson I learnt the skills of Pat O'Neill and Col. Biddle, and the Nelson System.

My duty to Close Combat is to continue with the work of my former instructors. As a current Army Special Forces Close Combat Master Chief Instructor my commitment is to ensuring the Close Combat doctrine is battle proven and that all teachings provide the professional combatant with the safest and most effective means to achieve operational success.

My field is a military science not a sport or an art, its teachings are based on science and dirty tricks. The following is not a physical 'how to - set technique' description, but more an outline of the desired principles to achieve the desired outcome. The true professional warrior should have the necessary skills to apply to meet the requirements of these principles and the realist could seek out such proven tactical and effective training.

This is a collection of principles and words of wisdom drawn from The Todd System of close combat, based on my and my former instructors' life times dedication to the military science of close combat and related subjects.

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Samples from The Do's and Don'ts of Close Combat

Chapter One - Battle-field Close Combat

• A knife is always loaded. Treat it as such.
• Boots are for combat, bare feet are for bathing.
• Speed and power equal velocity and require a stable platform.
• An imagination in combat can be worth more than a college education, as the actions required may not come from books.
• The quickest way between two points is straight.
• Keep it simple stupid (KISS).

Chapter Two - Phase Urban Self Defence

• Talk reduces your decision and reaction time.
• Be focused not tunnel visioned.
• Don't take your eyes off your enemy.
• If unknown to your enemy, remain neutral. If known, never drop your guard.
• Urban alert. If you spot a threat looking for a target, don't make eye contact. Keep the threat in your peripheral vision and avoid.
• Don't look an aggressive dog in the eyes or turn and run.

Chapter Three - Phase Specialist Security

• Never apply a hold or take down without a dirty trick or distraction
• As part of a team, be there without being asked.
• Never let your side or team down.
• Your plan is only as sure as its weakest link.
• Compound holds employ both hands - locking more than one joint reduces the risk of escape.
• The best prisoner come-along techniques have the prisoner bent forward or backwards, not upright.

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