1 comments about The Dynamic Art of Breaking.

1. This book is one of the best books I have ever read on breaking. It starts with the basic training needed to break and moves on to the more advanced. It has chapters on speed training and correct makiwara use. There is an explanation on how to hold boards correctly as well as where to strike boards. It shows multiple mid air breaks and how to apply all techniques in actually sparring. It is an essential for any one serious about breaking.

4 comments about The Ancient Martial Art of Hwarang Do - Volume 1.

1. An excellent introduction to Hwa Rang Do, probably the most comprehensive martial art system in the world. The pictures and descriptions are clear and easy to follow.



2. This book was excellent, dojang nim joobang lee left out nothing that the beginning student wants to know. It was written in such a way that I felt like I am actually there with dojang nim joobang lee training. It has been a dream of mine to train in hwarang do since I was 8, and now at 23 I'm getting my chance.Of course no book should ideally substitute a actual human being in front of you instructing, but this is all I have because I live in cleveland, oh and there is not a single hwarang do school here. Lee joobang dojang nim, I give you a full salute and thank you for the knowledge you have shared with me and all the future hwarang warriors with this book.



3. Originally published in 1978 by Ohara and since reprinted privately by JL Publications (and thus somewhat harder to obtain), this is the first in a three volume series by Master Teacher Joo-Bang Lee. This first volume of three covers history, Theory, Stances, Falling, Striking/punching, Kicking, and blocking. Included is a complete catalog of techniques from basic to advanced. The sequences of photographs are particularely good, with four to nine clear photos per technique. Volume Two covers joint locks, throws, sweeps and counters, defense from disadvataged positions (sitting, etc). Volume Three covers throwing, defense against weapons, striking vital points, a few cane and baton techniques, choking, opponent control, and defense against more than one opponent.
   
   Although there is some debate as to the historicity of Hwarang-Do as an "ancient" martial art separate from Hapkido and Taekwondo --Lee claims Hwarang Do has a completely separate native Korean origin despite its remarkable similarity to other forms of Korean martial art such as Hapkido and Kuk Sool-- this debate does nothing to detract from the technical expertise evident in the presentation of this book and the two which follow it. Author Lee Joo-Bang was at one time a direct (and senior) student of Hapkido founder Choi Yong-sul, and part of an original core group of dedicated martial arts men in Korea who traded techniques with one another in a progressive and friendly manner. Eventually due to competition these bonds of brotherhood dissolved, and today there is a lot of mystery and quarreling over what happened in those early days to cause so much dissention. A special attraction of this series of books is that most of the techniques are demonstrated by Master Joo-Bang Lee himself, and not younger students, the rare exception being a series of spectacular flying/jumping kicks shown by his eldest son, Henry Lee.
   
   Among the few faults I can find with this series of books is the format of the book itself (not the actual layout). I believe Lee's work would benefit greatly by being reintroduced in a larger format, and certainly a reworking of the section on history could include a number of the photos from his collection and personal recollections of the "early years" which impacted so much on Korea's modern martial arts. Hwarang-Do is certainly worthy of a nice large, hardcover volume built to last. Then again, these paperback editions offer affordability and easy access to the general public. For that reason and for the quality and scope of technique presented, Lee's three volume collection is absolutely worthwhile including in any martial arts collection.



4. Being the author of several books on the martial arts and fighting, I am always looking for books of exceptional quality to add to my library. If I have a book in my library, it's definitely worth owning. One such book is Joo Bang Lee's, "The Ancient Martial Art of Hwarang Do; Volume One." This volume along with its two companion volumes are the first books that I am aware of that were written on this Korean martial art.
   
   This volume, like the other two in the series, starts out with an outstanding section that gives you a detailed look at the history of Hwarang Do and its progression over the centuries from ancient times to the present day. You are then presented with the theory and internal dynamics which make up this very impressive art. The basic principles of training sections were also very good and offered excellent advice that should be implemented during training. The following is a brief overview of each chapter in the book and what it contains.
   
   1. Way of Controlling the Mind and Body:
   
   a. This section includes a very detailed description on training methods you can use in order to learn how to breathe properly and to harness that breath into the body's epi-center or Dan Jun in order to develop your ki or internal energy. This is also known as chi in Chinese.
   
   b. There is also a section included here that details various techniques and training methods you can use to enhance your mental concentration and development of your ki to enhance your physical and mental well being.
   
   2. Basic Stances:
   
   a. This section goes over the basic principles behind each stance or posture that is demonstrated. You are then shown 14 different stances that are used in this art form.
   
   3. Falling Techniques:
   
   a. In this section you are given the six basic principles that should be used during the execution of any type of roll or fall. You are then shown 3 falls, 2 rolls, and 3 flips that are used in this art form.
   
   4. Fists:
   
   a. This section is rather brief to my liking, and focuses mainly on the various hand positions and types of strikes that are used in this art form. They range from classical punches to various open handed striking techniques including elbow strikes. There is a brief description provided on how to form your hand for each technique and also the preferred vital points that you should target with each particular strike.
   
   5. Kicking Techniques:
   
   a. This section although brief, is really well done. It starts off by explaining to you the basic principles involved in kicking correctly and how to breath correctly when kicking. It also gives a brief explanation into the different types of kicks. Very sound and solid information.
   
   b. This is followed by a fairly good description of over 20 different kicks and their possible applications as well as the vital points that you would want to try and target when kicking. A rather brief example is then given of using multiple kicks on one or more opponents at one time.
   
   c. This section finishes off with another brief section on specialty kicks, which focus on four different jumping and flying kicks.
   
   6. Defensive Techniques:
   
   a. This final section goes over the hard and soft blocks and parries that are incorporated in this art form. Demonstrations are given against an attack by both the hands and feet.
   
   One of the things that I particularly liked about this book, and the others in the series, is the fact that there are no "sport" techniques in these books. All of the techniques shown are meant to be used in actual combat and self-defense situations. When you look at the art of Hwarang Do, you could make the comparison that this art form includes not only the strikes and kicks of Tae Kwon Do, but also the throwing and grappling techniques of Judo and the joint techniques of Aikido. Hwarang Do is truly a well-rounded and complete martial art.
   
   This and its two companion volumes were some of the first books that I ever purchased years ago when I was in high school and starting to learn about the martial arts. These books give a very good overview on the art of Hwarang Do and are very informative. If you are interested in this art form, or any of the Korean arts, I would definitely put these books on your too buy list.

2 comments about Hwa Rang Do: Defend, Take Down, Submit.

1. Despite what this title might initially suggest in the present age of Mixed Martial Arts and Submission fighting, the subject matter is actually the traditional-style defense and take down methods present in Hwarang-Do and related arts such as Hapkido and Kuk Sool. Like most schools of Hapkido-based arts, Hwarang-do is not a close-in grappling style like say, judo or competitive jiu jitsu.
   
   Sequence photographs show attacks from kicks and punches to grabs which are parried or countered with joint locks, and sumbission by throw with a continued hold on the limb of the adversary, or otherwise using leverage to bring the antagonizer to the ground where he can be held and immobilized.
   
   This volume is well-executed, I liked the presentation format. Not a bad book, easy enough to comprehend, but much of the material has already been covered in other works, including Henry Taejoon Lee's father GM. Joo Bang Lee's series of three books, "The Ancient Martial Art of Hwarang Do" (all of which I recommend). Martial artists without experience in hapkido-type arts (or other lock/throw styles) should also note that many of the techniques shown here which look spectacular in demonstrations are quite difficult to apply in practical situations without a cooperative "assailant". Still, not a bad book. I recommend this mainly for practitioners of Hwarang-Do (of course), Hapkido, and Kuk Sool.
   
   If you enjoy Korean martial arts such as Hwarang-Do or another Hapkido related style, you may also enjoy Choe's affordable Hapkido books, Kimm's "Hapkido" & "Hapkido II", Myung's "Korean Hapkido" and any of the big "Kuk Sool" textbooks. I hope someday Joo Bang Lee will be able to produce a master volume on his art of Hwarang-Do--the art certainly rates it!



2. First off I am not a practitioner of Hwa Rang Do; the book was recommended to me by my uncle who has his fifth degree black belt in the system and who is very involved in the organization. My experience has been in Kenpo, Kung Fu and Brazilian Jujitsu. I found this book very interesting; I have experience with the majority of the techniques or concepts in the book in one form or another. I enjoyed Mr. Lee's presentation of these techniques, he explains them in an easy to understand format. Although it is my understanding that this is just the tip of the iceberg of what is said to be a complete and dynamic system.
   
   The chapters detailing the history of the art are very informative, especially to someone that knows nothing about the system. The book also briefly talked about the philosophical aspects of Hwa Rang Do. The book is a good intro to the style for anyone curious or anyone considering studying it (like me); it could also give the experienced practitioner a deeper understanding of the arts evolution, and a handful of its techniques. Over all, this is book is informative and worth the money.
   
   My only complaint is that the pictures are small; this problem would have been easily fixed by expanding the size of the book. Considering this is my only complaint, I would recommend this book to anyone interested in the art, or just expanding your martial arts knowledge.

No comments about The Ancient Martial Art of Hwarang Do: Vol. 2.

3 comments about The Ancient Martial Art of Hwarang Do - Volume 3.

1. With multiple black and white photographs on every single page, this book focuses on illustrating classical self-defense techniques against sword, stick, cane, knife, and guns. There is also a basic section on throws, chokes, and opponent control moves.
   
   All moves are illustrated by a series of photographs but the accompanying text descriptions are a bit too limited. The pictures are usually sufficient for an experienced martial artist to figure out what's going on, but this is not a book from which a novice can expect to learn these techniques.
   
   Many of the techniques are impractical, such as using a dan bong (ten inch stick) to defend against a katana sword, or gun defenses that end with the weapon pointed at your own head. I would only recommend this book to an experienced person looking to learn variations of basic weapon disarmament techniques, though the "opponent control" section contains some fairly novel (to me anyway) methods of immobilizing an opponent through wrist or shoulder locks without causing injury or ending with a finishing strike.
   
   There is a pressure points section, which is too abbreviated to be of much use. It's basically just the numbered point charts, without much explanation.



2. This is the third volume of a series on Hwarang Do by Master Teacher Joo-Bang Lee originally published in 1978 by Ohara and since re-released by JL Publications. This third book is a fitting capstone to this series, offering a complete overview of a worthy and useful martial discipline. Volume Three includes a brief overview of the weapons of Hwarang Do, Defense against knife, sword, gun, defense with cane and short stick, Throwing techniques, choking techniques, opponent control, and a section on vital point including charts and photos. Throughout, a variety of detailed photographs illustrate sweeping, throwing, locking and striking techniques are demonstrated by Master Joo-Bang Lee himself. Volume One of this series covers history, Theory, Stances, Falling, Striking/punching, Kicking, and blocking. Volume Two deals with Joint locking, defense against grabs, defense against punches and kicks, and defense from disadvantageous positions.
   
   Although there is some debate as to the historicity of Hwarang-Do as an "ancient" Korean martial art separate from Hapkido and Taekwondo --Lee claims Hwarang Do has a completely separate native Korean origin despite its remarkable similarity to other forms of Korean martial art such as Hapkido and Kuk Sool-- this debate does nothing to detract from the technical expertise evident in the presentation of this book and the two which follow it. Author Lee Joo-Bang was at one time a direct (and senior) student of Hapkido founder Choi Yong-sul, and part of an original core group of dedicated martial arts men in Korea who traded techniques with one another in a progressive and friendly manner. Eventually due to competition these bonds of brotherhood dissolved, and today there is a lot of mystery and quarreling over what happened in those early days to cause so much dissention.
   
   Among the few faults I can find with this series of books is the repetitive inclusion of the same sections on history and theory in each of the three volumes. Certainly a more specific and inclusive history of Master Lee's own experiences, along with photos from his extensive historic collection could only benefit this series! The format of these books as well (not the actual layout) would benefit greatly by being reintroduced in a larger format. Hwarang-Do is certainly worthy of a nice large, hardcover volume built to last. Then again, these paperback editions offer affordability and easy access to the general public. For that reason and for the quality and scope of technique presented, Lee's three volume collection is absolutely worthwhile including in any martial arts collection. I hope Joo-Bang Lee himself will present further works on Hwarang Do in the future.



3. Being the author of several books on the martial arts and fighting, I am always looking for books of exceptional quality to add to my library. If I have a book in my library, it's definitely worth owning. One such book is Joo Bang Lee's, "The Ancient Martial Art of Hwarang Do; Volume Three."
   
   This volume, like the other two in the series, starts out with an outstanding section that gives you a detailed look at the history of Hwarang Do and its progression over the centuries from ancient times to the present day. You are then presented with the theory and internal dynamics which make up this very impressive art. The basic principles of training sections were also very good and offered excellent advice that should be implemented during training. The following is a brief overview of each chapter in the book and what it contains.
   
   11. Weapons:
   
   a. This section begins with a brief discussion on the history of weapons concerning the art of Hwarang Do and then goes into the 20 basic weapon types that are studied in this art form. The author notes that once you have mastered the 20 basic weapon types, you can then eventually master the 108 weapons studied and used in Hwarang Do.
   
   b. This section continues with the basic blocks, strikes and applications of the short stick. This is usually an oak stick approximately 6 to 8 inches in length with a cord attached to one end.
   
   c. The next section comprises various defenses against the sword, stick, and cane. This is followed with 10 self-defense techniques that can be used against an attacker armed with a knife. This section concludes with a brief segment that demonstrates to you four different defenses you could use against an attacker armed with a handgun. This particular segment is one I didn't care for because it was too brief and did not include any of the basic information that you should know before even considering such a move.
   
   12. Throwing Techniques:
   
   a. This section starts off with some basic principles involved in throwing and the recommendation that you should learn how to fall and roll first, before learning how to throw. Sound advice!
   
   b. This next section demonstrates and briefly explains how to execute 6 basic throws in Hwarang Do. It then does something really unique and not found in very many books, which is how to defend against someone who is trying to throw you.
   
   13. Choking Techniques:
   
   a. After a brief segment on the basic principles of choking, the author demonstrates 5 basic choking techniques.
   
   14. Opponent Control:
   
   a. Following a brief segment on the basic principles behind controlling an opponent, this section gives you 7 examples of controlling or restraining an attacker.
   
   b. In this section, the author also demonstrates for you 7 different examples of defenses that could be used against two attackers. Following this he also demonstrates 1 example of defending yourself against three attackers at one time. These examples are intended to be just that, examples. They are not intended to be duplicated move for move.
   
   15. Vital Points:
   
   a. Although this section of the book was rather brief, the basic principles and the philosophy that the author relates to the reader is, in my opinion, not only very professional, but also the mark of a true master of the martial arts.
   
   b. The author continues with this section by demonstrating some basic techniques applied to certain vulnerable areas of the body.
   
   16. Charts of the Meridians of the Body:
   
   a. This section shows detailed charts mapping out the meridians of the body that correspond to the major internal organs.
   
   One of the things that I particularly liked about this book, and the others in the series, is the fact that there are no "sport" techniques in these books. All of the techniques shown are meant to be used in actual combat and self-defense situations. When you look at the art of Hwarang Do, you could make the comparison that this art form includes not only the strikes and kicks of Tae Kwon Do, but also the throwing and grappling techniques of Judo and the joint techniques of Aikido. Hwarang Do is truly a well-rounded and complete martial art.
   
   This and its two companion volumes were some of the first books that I ever purchased years ago when I was in high school and starting to learn about the martial arts. These books give a very good overview on the art of Hwarang Do and are very informative. If you are interested in this art form, or any of the Korean arts, I would definitely put these books on your too buy list.

2 comments about The Ancient Martial Art of Hwarang Do - Volume 2.

1. Originally published in 1978 by Ohara and since re-released by JL Publications, this is the second in a three volume series by Master Teacher Joo-Bang Lee. Volume Two covers joint locks, self-defense against grabs (including locking and throwing), defense from disadvataged positions (sitting, etc), and defense against kicks and punches which include a variety of detailed sewwping, throwing, locking and striking techniques put into practice. Each photographic sequence is well-detailed and clear. As with the first volume in the series, the majority techniques are clearly demonstrated by Master Joo-Bang Lee himself. Volume One of this series covers history, Theory, Stances, Falling, Striking/punching, Kicking, and blocking. Volume Three covers throwing, defense against weapons, striking vital points, a few cane and baton techniques, choking, opponent control, and defense against more than one opponent.
   
   Although there is some debate as to the historicity of Hwarang-Do as an "ancient" Korean martial art separate from Hapkido and Taekwondo --Lee claims Hwarang Do has a completely separate native Korean origin despite its remarkable similarity to other forms of Korean martial art such as Hapkido and Kuk Sool-- this debate does nothing to detract from the technical expertise evident in the presentation of this book and the two which follow it. Author Lee Joo-Bang was at one time a direct (and senior) student of Hapkido founder Choi Yong-sul, and part of an original core group of dedicated martial arts men in Korea who traded techniques with one another in a progressive and friendly manner. Eventually due to competition these bonds of brotherhood dissolved, and today there is a lot of mystery and quarreling over what happened in those early days to cause so much dissention.
   
   Among the few faults I can find with this series of books is the repetitive inclusion of the sections on history and theory in each of the three volumes. Certainly a more specific and inclusive history of Master Lee's own experiences, along with photos from his extensive historic collection could only benefit this series. The format of these books as well (not the actual layout) would benefit greatly by being reintroduced in a larger format. Hwarang-Do is certainly worthy of a nice large, hardcover volume built to last. Then again, these paperback editions offer affordability and easy access to the general public. For that reason and for the quality and scope of technique presented, Lee's three volume collection is absolutely worthwhile including in any martial arts collection.



2. Being the author of several books on the martial arts and fighting, I am always looking for books of exceptional quality to add to my library. If I have a book in my library, it's definitely worth owning. One such book is Joo Bang Lee's, "The Ancient Martial Art of Hwarang Do; Volume Two."
   
   This volume, like the other two in the series, starts out with an outstanding section that gives you a detailed look at the history of Hwarang Do and its progression over the centuries from ancient times to the present day. You are then presented with the theory and internal dynamics which make up this very impressive art. The basic principles of training sections were also very good and offered excellent advice that should be implemented during training. The following is a brief overview of each chapter in the book and what it contains.
   
   7. Joint Breaking Techniques:
   
   a. In this section, the author gives 5 detailed examples of joint breaks that target the fingers, wrist, and elbow.
   
   8. Self-Defense Against Grabs:
   
   a. This section if without a doubt one of the best sections in the entire series with detailed examples of over 30 different defenses against various types of grabs ranging from simple wrist grabs and clothing grabs to head locks.
   
   b. Almost all of the defensive moves in this section end up with some sort of joint dislocation or break. Although each of these can be modified to result in a less serious result. These techniques are easy to follow, and if you have a little previous knowledge in joint manipulation, very easy to execute.
   
   9. Self-Defense from Disadvantaged Positions:
   
   a. This section I found to be rather unique as you rarely ever see this particular issue addressed when talking about self-defense and that is defending yourself in any position other than the typical standing position.
   
   b. Demonstrated in this section are 7 defenses that can be used if attacked when lying down.
   
   c. 7 defenses are also shown from a seated position.
   
   d. Now this small section was particularly interesting in the fact that it showed 4 examples for defending yourself while only having the use of one arm. This might come in handy if one of your arms was injured or inoperative for some reason.
   
   10. Self-Defense Against Punches and Kicks:
   
   a. This section although a little brief, demonstrates several different techniques for defending yourself against a variety of punches and kicks. I particularly liked the detailed photographs that are prevalent throughout the entire series of books, not just this section.
   
   One of the things that I particularly liked about this book, and the others in the series, is the fact that there are no "sport" techniques in these books. All of the techniques shown are meant to be used in actual combat and self-defense situations. When you look at the art of Hwarang Do, you could make the comparison that this art form includes not only the strikes and kicks of Tae Kwon Do, but also the throwing and grappling techniques of Judo and the joint techniques of Aikido. Hwarang Do is truly a well-rounded and complete martial art.
   
   This and its two companion volumes were some of the first books that I ever purchased years ago when I was in high school and starting to learn about the martial arts. These books give a very good overview on the art of Hwarang Do and are very informative. If you are interested in this art form, or any of the Korean arts, I would definitely put these books on your too buy list.

5 comments about Knife Self-Defense for Combat (Special Forces/Ranger-Udt/Seal Hand-to-Hand Combat/Special Weapons/Special Tactics Series).

1. i'vc had this book since i was 7 years old. i loved the awesome photos of echanis doing his thing. if you like the elaborate and complex, then this is the knife fighting book for you. there are simpler ways of "getting it done", but few are more fun to try. and, by the way, if any of you are curious as to how he died, he was killed while "training" in nicaragua. hmmm . . .



2. Being the author of several books on the martial arts and fighting, I am always looking for books of exceptional quality to add to my library. If I have a book in my library, it's definitely worth owning. One such book is Michael D. Echanis', "Knife Self-Defense for Combat." This book is directly influenced by the Korean martial art of Hwarang Do and its current Grandmaster Joo Bang Lee, who Echanis had studied under before his untimely demise in Nicaragua.
   
   This book along with its two companion volumes, "Basic Stick Fighting for Combat" and "Knife Fighting, Knife Throwing for Combat," were not initially released to the general public, but instead were only available to certified and recognized self-defense instructors. These books were originally intended to be military training manuals for the various elite units in the United States military. These were units such as the Special Forces, Army Rangers, Navy Seals, etc.
   
   This volume, like the other two in this series, starts out with a brief section on the history of Hwarang Do and its relationship to hand-to-hand combat. This is followed by another brief section that looks at the theory and internal dynamics which make up this very impressive art.
   
   The next section of this book goes over in very good detail the basic principles involved in defending oneself against an attacker armed with a knife. This section is very well done and provides a lot of very sound advice. It then concludes with the following:
   
   4 Basic Rules in Unarmed Self-Defense Against a Weapons Attack
   
   1. Clear your body of the weapon's line of fire and angle of attack.
   2. Stabilize and control the weapon...
   3. Disarm the weapon...
   4. Neutralize the enemy...
   
   This section end with the following quote from the author, "No matter how proficient the unarmed expert becomes at disarming an armed assailant, he will remain vulnerable to even the smallest weapons expert." Concerning the subject, have any truer words been said?
   
   The author proceeds to demonstrate 38 basic methods for disarming an attacker who is armed with a knife. The author stresses that these are merely examples for the readers of this book to use as a guide for finding the right technique that works for them. It is by no means intended to be cure-all or gospel of knife self-defense. Use your own ingenuity to find and develop your own self-defense methods using the ones that the author has demonstrated as a guide.
   
   I have read other reviews where the readers have criticized some of the moves in this book as being to complex and unrealistic in nature. I don't feel that this is the case and did not see that when I read the book as the author intended. However, if you read this book under the impression that these 38 techniques are to be executed exactly as they are presented instead of as they were intended, which is as a guide to go by, then yes, I could see where that misinterpretation could come from.
   
   Although the clarity of the photographs was outstanding and easy to follow, I felt that the descriptions themselves could have been a little bit longer and more detailed. I would have also liked to have seen some close-up photographs of some of the grabs and hand positions. Other than that, this is a very good book and one that should be on your list too buy, if you don't own it already.



3. Mr. Echanis's untimely death & a publisher's clever advertising ploy elevated him into a folk hero. Regrettably his books, while nicely bound, are filled with techniques that would be difficult in a dojo & fatal on the street. His knowledge of hapkido & aikido are not translated into "combat" tactics & are at best highly questionable. His books have recently been touted as "too deadly to be revealed until know"; a true statement if one considers the reader's health & safety to be what's in danger. Mr. Ellner's recommendations for other texts would be far better ways to spend one's money. While many hapkido instructors in America shy away from teaching serious street self-defense moves, there are some, along with (non MMA, NHB) combat-oriented jujutsu teachers, who would provide decent instruction - provided you research the matter well. If one has to study from a book, make sure it's a good one.



4. I've had this book since it was first published. I've always regarded it as generally sound, and after more than 35 years of martial arts experience, I haven't changed that opinion. There is a lot of real stuff in the techniques demonstrated. A great deal of it, in fact, is similar to material you will find in Medieval fighting manuals dating from 1409-1600 (ie, Fiore, Talhoffer, Marozzo, Meyer). If you think that the guys who wrote those books didn't know what they were doing, you are a fool.
   
   Nonetheless, there is some chaff in the book. Determining what is wheat and what is chaff, however, is a difficult business. It requires an appreciation of how knife attacks happen in the real world, and most of the posters (particularly the sneerers) probably don't have the experience to justify their sense of superiority -- a condition sadly prevalent in the "knife" community, including the authors of knife DVDs and books. Most knife defense systems aren't based on a study of how knife attacks really happen. They usually are based on some guy's fanciful idea of how they happen.
   
   So I would recommend the book, but with a caveat (which should be applied to all the works by the modern self described knife experts) that some of the material shouldn't be trusted.



5. RATING: I give this trilogy of books 1.5 stars overall.
   
   1 star for validity, 4 stars for marketing and 5 stars for Echanis service in the U.S. Army as Green Beret, may you RIP.
   
   Now back to the review. I am reviewing all three titles in Echanis's series of books.
   
   Fist Echanis system of fighting was established and based on Korean Hwarang-Do, which he developed into a somewhat hybrid military hand-to-hand combative. All his methods and techniques are based on this system in all three books.
   
   I will start with "Knife Self-Defense for Combat". This book offers compendium of 35 plus knife defense techniques that entail multiple variations that supposedly provide unlimited possibilities for the combatant. The only possibilities I see are ways to get you killed. I have been studying bladecraft for sometime now and can say that I seriously question the validity of most all these techniques in this book. The majority of the methods are way too complicated to perform under duress and stress. The moves are too long with too many steps to remember and choreographed like it is Kata. Defensive knife moves need to be simple, short and sweet, but deadly effective. Unfortunately these moves are not. Maybe if you have 5-6 hours a day to practice and learn a handful of his moves they may work for you. But for me I would rather use my time more wisely.
   
   The second book is "Knife Fighting/Knife Throwing for Combat". Like the first volume that same echoes here. There are some points of interest to be found in this title, but can be found in better and more up to date works that are available. I have to make it know that a vast majority of the methods in this book are ridiculous. One major and contradiction to knife fighting is the topic of knife throwing, I just do not see the validity in this. If you are using a knife most likely you lost your firearm (malfunction/disarmed), so are you literally going to throw your last line of defense away? This method has no place in combat, maybe Hollywood.
   
   The final title is "Basic Stick Fighting for Combat" which was published after Echanis passed away. It is said he never completed all the text to support this book and if so I do not think it would have made a difference. Like the other titles the moves are just to complex and very limited in there employment. I do think if you are an avid stick fighter you may get some use from this title but for the true combatant they are just too choreographed for any fluid and effective use in combat.
   
   Overall this entire series is very poor and would not recommend using most of the moves for defense or combat. With that I do recommend the books for what not to do. They are also useful in the study of the historical evolution of modern combatives. A lot has changed in the art and science of combatives since the late seventies. Ultimately there is always something to be learned whether it is good or bad and knowing the difference may help to keep you alive to fight another day.