Knife Defence in 4 Volumes
Volume 1 – Overhead Stabs
Volume 2 – Mid Level Stabs
Volume 3 – Side Stabs
Volume 4 – Knife at the Stomach, Back & Throat
WARNING: This film is an exception to all Systema videos and lessons. In 1995, when this film was produced, Systema was new outside of Russia. The Systema approach of free, spontaneous movements, and absence of fixed form was new to the world of martial arts. To help students capture this style, Vladimir Vasiliev presented his moves through steps and components.
Technique-based approach shown in this film is only an additional option for those who have already grasped the concepts of Systema’s tension-free, natural and spontaneous movements.
Watch the detailed explanations of every move and replays done at slow and faster speed.
38 min
Fighting Knives Journal –
From a professional’s point of view, I enjoyed Knife Defense a bunch. Vasiliev is an expert in both the knife and martial arts as specific to the Russian military, particularly SPETSNAZ (Special Forces). Along with knife work, the viewer gets a peek at Russian grappling, unarmed self-defense, using everything from helmets to deer antlers! The historical footage is superb and very entertaining. The instructional portion is interesting, and clearly meant to bring a confrontation to a violent end. Vasiliev’s approach is much like Jim West’s in that the material and techniques are so ingrained, so routine in nature and execution, that both men present them without measurable effort. A great addition to the video library – I took two techniques from this video and made them my own. You might do the same.
Marty Southin –
I’m very impressed with Vladimir’s sensitivity skills. The section on defence against slashing movements is really amazing!
Steve L. –
Valuable for anyone interested in learning about barehanded defense against a knife.
C. G. –
Knife Defence is a fascinating film. I am most interested in studying the timing and rhythm employed in Systema.
Bill H. –
Vladimir takes your through all the components of unarmed defense from all possible knife attacks and through the numerous ways of utilizing a knife to its fullest potential. The techniques include multidimensional types of defense and attack, whip-like and circular work, flat of the blade and handle strikes, controlling pricks, continuous wave-like moves, tying up with one knife and much more. You will see why Spetsnaz professionals have been said to work like magicians – smooth, swift, yet utterly deadly.
Damien H. –
I have watched the Knife Defence films about a dozen times already, All I can say is WOW, DYNAMITE. Vlad moves with the grace of something I’ve never seen before. I have shown the films to some of my friends and one of them thinks special effects were used to produce such magic in the martial arts. All I can say is thank you for bringing Systema to the world!
The Comtech Excellerator –
In my opinion, this film is one of the best knife defense films on the market. I believe that the knowledge in this film would be of value to anyone who is serious about facing live steel unarmed. Because of its universal application, this material will blend nicely into any existing format. You owe it to yourself to check this out.
Stephen B. –
The way the material was presented is good. Each movement is shown individually and clearly. I had no problem at all “memorizing” the movements. I could sit with someone right now and explain to them each technique by visualizing what I remember seeing in the film.
Giuseppe Boscolo –
I am so impressed by the practical value of these films!
Den Brinkley –
I purchased the video on Russian Knife Defense when it first came out. Though I had been a practicing martial artist for 35 years, I found Vladimir’s instruction to be the most clearly and thoroughly presented and demonstrated of any instructor I have yet seen. Usually I have to take the lessons presented and alter or reject the techniques until they will work on a determined opponent. This was not the case with Vladimir’s presentation. All I had to do was to follow his reliable instructions and, with practice, learning was complete. Vladimir Vasiliev is a rare instructor, his methods are honest and real, and I would recommend Systema to anyone who need techniques to win in a serious conflict.