Surviving a Knife Attack

Surviving a Knife Attack: Practical Skills YOU Can Use

By Glenn G. Norling

With contributing experts cited below.

Real knife assaults are nothing like Hollywood thrillers. There’s no choreographed dance of blades, just raw speed, close quarters, and the very real risk of injury. The first step is understanding that this is a fight for survival, not a contest to win.

Dive into this blog on, “Surviving a Knife Attack”

Build Your Awareness Before Trouble Starts

• Look up from your phone in public spaces.
• Take a few seconds to note exits and unusual behavior.
• Use reflections to check your surroundings discreetly.
• Change your routine to avoid predictability.
• Trust your instincts—hesitation can cost you.

 Ten Survival Actions That Work in Real Life

Your Number One Goal: Get Away Fast
The safest move is to avoid the blade entirely. Use distance, doors, fences, anything that puts space between you and danger.

While You Work on Number One: Put Something in the Way
Backpacks, chairs, jackets, shopping carts, and even a coffee cup can interrupt the attacker’s focus. Throwing objects at their face can create just enough disruption to escape or counter.

If You Cannot Place Distance or Otherwise Physically Block or Impede the Attack:

• Change Your Position Constantly
  Don’t give them a stationary target. Step to the side, pivot, or circle so they have to keep adjusting.
• Focus on the Arm
  It’s the hand and arm controlling the knife that matters, not the knife itself. Control the source of movement.
• Close In with Purpose
  If escape is impossible, it may be safer to crowd the attacker, limit their arm movement, and clinch with control—never by charging blindly.
• Guard Your Lifelines
  Your forearms can take more damage than your neck or torso. Keep your chin tucked and arms in tight to protect your arteries and lungs.
• Strike Back When You Can
  Target vulnerable areas: eyes, throat, groin, feet—to break their momentum and open a path to safety.
• Use Both Hands for Control
  Two hands on their weapon arm increase leverage and make it harder for them to break free.
• Stay Balanced
  Strong footing means faster reactions. Avoid wide, awkward stances that can topple you.
• Accept the Risk, Stay in the Fight
  Even trained professionals get cut. The key is not stopping, keep moving, thinking, and looking for your next chance to break contact.

Technical Expert Contributors: Chuck Savickis, Far Ridge Services, Vecchi Group International.

Posted by: Chris Grollnek Active Shooter Expert #NEVERHERE