Fighting Options:
When to Fight

Learning your fighting options now of when to initiate violence is far better than waiting until you're facing a dire threat from a criminal attacker.

[NOTE: This is self defense strategic advice - not legal advice. Ask your attorney how this page applies to you.]

Sometimes, from out of the blue, a force predator suddenly pounces upon his prey. Other times, he’ll appear and pause as he positions himself for maximum advantage, or lingers while relishing your fear.

When your intuition tells you that you’re the target of an imminent attack, how do you best defend yourself – by attacking first or waiting to react to an attack? Strategically, (as sucker punch explains) “beating him to the punch” is better than “waiting and seeing” and hoping he doesn’t strike you first.

Anyone who acts first has a huge advantage: that eternal split-second between their action and the other person's reaction. 

You’ll suddenly "turn the tables" on him and keep him busy scrambling to defend against your continued offense. “The best defense is a good offense.”  Keep pouring it on until you can escape to safety. STUN & RUN!

When to Act First

Criminal predators attack suddenly. So, when should you attack first?

1. If he’s threatening you with imminent physical harm,
2. if there’s no other avenue of escape,
3. if the first four of your five victim’s options haven't been effective,
4. and if your intuition tells you that his attack is inevitable...

then attack him first. With no warning, make him fear you with a surprise, full-blast attack using the optimal mindset. Strike quickly and ferociously. Fight like a mad dog. STUN & RUN! Then immediately seek the police.

If you do decide to catch him by surprise with a fully committed attack, how should you do it? By using a sucker punch to start your barrage. You may also need to use self defense techniques before you flee.

See "After Escaping – Immediately Call the Police" on fighting.

Enhance Your Fighting Options

Carry Pepper Spray & a Personal Security Alarm (noisemaker or screamer) within easy reach. Those pages tell you how to use them most effectively.


NOTICE: This non-profit website is for informational purposes only and is drawn from the bibliography and USDOJ. Use the information at your own risk. See disclaimers.

See Liability Disclaimer for Self Defense Techniques


Crime-Safety-Security > Fighting Options Overview > When To Fight

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