I have been training with and in the defense of bladed weapons since the 1950s and I must say that this young man is lucky to be alive. This picture is definitely worth a thousand words!
Mr. Joshua Morale has pretty much nailed it. The "brake" function also exists with certain large versions of the Pira originating from the island of Basilan in the southern Philippines.
Hello Guro David, it is so nice to hear from you. It makes me very happy to know that some of you are still out there teaching and sharing your knowledge, as for me I have been underground for years and due to electronic technology I have been rediscovered and have had several people from the past contact me, I am slowly getting to meet with them and I would really enjoy meeting with you, Are you still in California. Call me at 310-518-2236 that is my home phone, I look forward to hearing from you.
Guro Hines, not sure you remember me. I trained with you in Monterey in 89'-90'. I have still been practicing some escrima in Washington and am headed to the PI soon for an extended stay and hope to get some training in there.
Video of Phillip Pascual (Red Helmet) and Anthony Domingo of Bahala Na Multi-Style, practicing full contact sparring with padded sticks. Showing good techniq...