TRICOM: Edged Weapons Countermeasures and Duty Knife as a Backup Weapon Instructor Course

Day 1 | Duty Knife as a Backup Weapon Operator Level

Start: Monday, May 23, 2022 | 0800 - 1600

Day 2 | Edged Weapons Countermeasures Operator Level

Start: Tuesday, May 24, 2022 | 0800 - 1600

Day 3 | Instructor Development and Certification

Start: Wednesday, May 25, 2022 | 0800-1600

1 Day Registration: $250 (Operator Level Only)

2 Day Registration: $450 (Operator Level Only)

3 Day Registration: $600 (Instructor Certification) 

Hosted by Westchester County Police Academy

Westchester, NY

Instructed by: Kenny Bigbee Jr. and Chris Mandigma

Edged Weapons Countermeasures

Statistically more lethal than firearms assaults at extreme close-quarters, edged weapons are a constant threat that law enforcement officers must be aware of and prepared to defend against on a daily basis. In addition to the threat it presents law enforcement professionals, the threat of an edged weapon assault is a reality that we all must be prepared to face in a self-defense situation.  

The goal of this course is not to avoid "martial arts" techniques, but to analyze what martial artists have learned from centuries of trial and error, and handpick the techniques, tactics, and procedures that have the highest probability of success for the average civilian or law enforcement officer. Although this course content is extremely beneficial to martial arts practitioners from various backgrounds, this video course takes into consideration those who are neither martial artists, nor have the opportunity to train on a regular basis. 

This course includes at a minimum:

• Footwork and mobility to control distance and proximity.

• The life-saving TRICOM principle of Zero Pressure.

• Attribute enhancing flow drills.

• Identifying edged weapon threats as early as possible.

• Exploiting optimal angles of approach and engagement.

• Learning strikes and joint manipulations that have the highest probability of success in the "Adrenal State".

• Focus on Gross Motor movement and actions that prepare individuals for success when experiencing physiological stress symptoms.

• Integrating available use-of-force options to include designated and improvised weapons.

• Dynamic in-fight strikes and takedowns.

• Inside-line fighting tactics.

• Protected knife positions and countermeasures.

• Discussion on dynamic simulation and micro-scenario drills. 

Duty Knife as a Backup Weapon

Many Law Enforcement officers carry at least one knife on their person when on duty. In addition to the variety of utility functions a duty knife can perform, most officers carry a knife with intent to use it as a last-ditch survival weapon or weapon retention tool. Unlike other weapons officers carry, many agencies do not have a policy regarding knives. Consequently the carry, deployment and defensive use of a knife is rarely trained. 

Over the course of both days we will cover time-proven techniques and tactics adapted for relevant use by modern day Law Enforcement, while addressing objectively reasonable application of force. The focus will be on weapon deployment under stress in both standing and ground positions, along with simple gross-motor skills for using a knife in lethal and less lethal application. We also provide Instructor Candidates with a sample department policy  that provides a reference and starting point for those looking to integrate a knife policy into their organization. 

Equipment: Training knives will be provided, but you are welcome to bring your own. Please wear comfortable training clothes. We recommend bringing your tactical loadout or duty gear to utilize for some of the drills. A training gun (Blue Gun or SIRT) that fits your duty holster is recommended. Please do not bring live blades or firearms into the training area. Mats/wrestling shoes are recommended.

Cancellation Policy: Because there are limited spaces available, a cancellation of $55 will be assessted to all cancellations.