In the intricate world of personal protection, mastering the art of Close Quarter Battle (CQB) without relying on firearms is an essential skill set, akin to the nuanced strategies employed in chess. Due to the harsh realities of their protective duties, this investigation into unarmed CQB is not merely an academic exercise but rather a crucial component of a bodyguard's repertoire. Such skills are the bodyguard's final line of defence, deployed only when strategies to avoid or escape threats have been exhausted, underscoring the principle that confrontation is a last resort. The justification of force requiring the elements of necessity, reasonableness, and proportionality has been determined.
Unarmed CQB, a term borrowed from the military lexicon and often muddled by a chorus of self-proclaimed experts, diverges significantly from its military counterpart. In the armed forces, CQB progresses from rifles to pistols and, as a last resort, to hand-to-hand combat. In contrast, a bodyguard's CQB toolkit begins where the soldier's ends, emphasising the nuanced art of defending oneself and the protectee without the luxury of firearms.
This divergence is not merely tactical but philosophical, reflecting a broader understanding of the bodyguard's role in a civilian context. Unlike military engagements, where the objective is to neutralise a threat by any means necessary, the bodyguard's goal is to ensure the safety of their charge, often within the constraints of legal and ethical boundaries. This nuanced approach, termed defensive management, prioritises compliance and restraint over aggression, tailored to the unpredictable dynamics of civilian environments.
Defensive management unfolds in stages, starting with the establishment of a commanding presence to encourage voluntary compliance. Should this fail, verbal commands serve as the next step to secure compliance, escalating to physical restraint only when necessary. This progression emphasises the minimal use of force, a stark contrast to military doctrines.
Physical control in this context is nuanced, comprising striking, throwing, locking, and constriction—each with its own specific application based on the threat level. Striking and throwing are reserved for immediate threats, while locking and constriction are applied in less volatile situations, underscoring the importance of judgement and proportionality in the use of force.
The bodyguard's domain is one of complexity and constant threat assessment, requiring a judicious application of skills ranging from the physical to the psychological. It demands an understanding that true mastery of CQB is not about the accumulation of techniques but about the strategic application of the right technique at the right time. This ethos extends to the selection of impact weapons and the judicious use of force, always with an eye towards the primary goal: the safety and well-being of the protectee.
In this realm, the allure of martial arts gurus and the promises of quick mastery should be approached with scepticism. Real-world combat is unforgiving, and the effectiveness of any technique is measured not by its elegance but by its applicability under duress. The true measure of a bodyguard's skill lies not in the breadth of their arsenal but in the depth of their understanding and their ability to adapt to the fluid dynamics of real-world threats.
Unarmed CQB within the realm of personal protection is a disciplined, strategic approach to safeguarding lives, rooted in the principles of minimal force, situational awareness, and an unyielding commitment to the protectee's safety. It is a testament to the bodyguard's role as both protector and guardian, navigating the delicate balance between aggression and restraint in the service of their solemn duty.
From the author.
The opinions and statements are those of Sam Wilks and do not necessarily represent whom Sam Consults or contracts to. Sam Wilks is a skilled and experienced Security Consultant with almost 3 decades of expertise in the fields of Real estate, Security, and the hospitality/gaming industry. His knowledge and practical experience have made him a valuable asset to many organizations looking to enhance their security measures and provide a safe and secure environment for their clients and staff.