What is a curved blade? Why would I want to carry one? What are the differences between a curved blade and a straight edge? Why carry a curved edge over a straight edge? Where did curved blades originate? Are they legal to own? How are they carried? How are they used? Although its origin can be traced to before the-middle ages, the production curved blade is a recent arrival to the modern knife community. What makes this type of knife so special? Join subject matter expert Steve Tarani as he takes you through the history, features and usage of the unique curved blade. In this volume, scope of study includes: Brief history, features, grips, stances, carry, deployment and usage of the curved blade in personal safety and defense. If you already own one or are thinking about owning a curved blade knife then this study guide is for you!

What is a Karambit? Why is the Karambit one of the most awesome personal defense weapons of the Indonesian Archipelago? Extracted from the jungles of West Java, deep in the heart of Indonesia, the ancient technologies of the Karambit masters are revealed for the first time in this unique contribution to the world of martial arts edged weapons training. In this "how to" training reference, delve into the rich history and practical operation of this incredible artifact. Uncover the secrets of the Indonesian training method, combative strategies, and the way of the ancient masters in edged weapon defensive tactics such as disarms, takedowns, throws, immobilizations, escapes, locks and other self-defense skills in operating the Karambit. The history of this ancient and mysterious weapon is steeped in legend and its operation until now has been kept secret for centuries. Join Jagabaya Steve Tarani as he takes you step by step through the mystical history and training drills of this highly guarded close quarters personal defense system. This outstanding volume is a must for the serious student of edged weapons, martial arts training and self-defense application.

"Garden Steps" was one of the show-places of Merivale Park, Long Island. In summer it was an enchanting spot, and the dazzling white marble steps which led to the sunken gardens justified their right to give the place its name. Other stone steps gave on terraces and flower banks, others still led to the Italian landscape gardens, and a few rustic steps of a wooden stile transported one to an old-fashioned garden, whose larkspur and Canterbury bells were the finest of their sort. The house seemed an integral part of this setting. Its wide verandahs, or more often loggias, were so lavishly furnished with flowering plants, its windows so boxed with them, that the whole effect was that of a marvellously well-planned horticultural exhibition. But all this was of the summer. In winter-for it was an all-round-the-year home-only the varied and extraordinary collection of evergreens shared with the steps the honor of making picturesque and beautiful the view from the house windows.

*Sharpening hand tools *Sharpening power tools *Tips and methods *Uses plain-spoken language *Section on bench stones, bench grinders, and other supplies

Who didn't enjoy the movie scene where Indiana Jones blasted a sword-wielding opponent with his six-shooter? If he's got a knife then just shoot him - right? Isn't that all there is to it? It always works (and looks) great in the movies, but what about in real life? What about the real-world officers both patrol and correctional as well as other operating professionals who really have been there and tried that and it didn't work? Why is the "21-foot Rule" such a critical factor and what can you do to beat the odds stacked against you? What if it really happened to you - how would you react? Sure, you may carry a gun, but are you truly prepared to beat a surprise edged weapon attack and walk away in one piece? What qualification drills can you run to test your skills? Join leading subject matter expert Steve Tarani as he guides you step-by-step through this easy-to-follow tutorial on how to defeat a "knife fight" with a firearm. Scope of study includes: Anatomy of a "Knife Fight", 28 real-world reasons why your gun may not be the first choice, utilizing the Two-second Rule, finding optimal Range and Position, defeating the Action-Reaction Power Curve, how to reduce Liability (personal injury) and Reactionary Gaps, utilizing the Second-hand Rule, shooting from Retention Position, transitions, critical on and off-range training drills, and most importantly - how to not fight but win with a gun.