The Karambit: Intermediate Video
Please note that this Spyderco knife is extremely sharp and will shave hair off of my arm. It is extraordinarily dangerous to utilize such a live blade in the manner that is depicted in some of these videos. I have practiced martial arts for years, have utilized trainer karambits for years, and, according to my wife, have been known to do stupid things with knives. This is one of those instances where I say, Kids, please dont try this at home. The actions depicted in these videos are dangerous to you and to others, unless you have a great deal of expertise. Do not attempt them with a live blade.
At the intermediate level, I still do not believe in the spinning of the karambit or the use of the extended forward grip. The basic level, while generally effective, limits the ability to block a determined and skilled attacker, and also limits the number of ways to deploy the blade in a counterattack. In the intermediate level, the key difference is that the arms have been divorced. The arms can move independently. This movement means that the off hand or arm could be cut with the karambit. The use of the off hand to conduct trapping, checking, parrying, and blocking movements significantly opens the self defense options of the karambit wielder, but should only be attempted when the wielder is practiced and comfortable with this technique. Face it, if you are doing these movements in the real world in a self defense situation, your flesh will often be mere inches (or less) away from touching your own razor sharp steel. A lot of practice should be conducted before an individual develops to the intermediate level. One of the quickest ways to get to the point where the arms can act independently is to practice sinawali with twin sticks (as seen in a different section and video on this website).
As I have stated above, please do not misuse this information, and please do not attempt the techniques depicted in these videos with a live blade until or unless you are very highly skilled. Even when highly skilled, this kind of work with a live blade is dangerous. If you choose to disregard these warnings and do injury to yourself or others, the onus is on you.
Tuhan Holloway, May 2007
