Specialization VS. Generalization in Defensive Skills

I will readily admit that I “specialize” in the use of the handgun from concealment, and I am not particularly enthusiastic in other fields of shooting so as to pursue them to a high level.  I don’t even use a pistol from an open holster for anything as I am not interested in a carry mode that has no practical bearing on my life.  And as for shooting long guns?  Minimal.  I might shoot a couple hundred rounds a year through rifles, if nothing else just to verify they are still working.  I hold a very defined interest within the world of shooting.

However, over time I have come to understand that one can’t exclusively specialize and be adequately ready for personal protection.  I say “exclusively specialize” because I don’t think there is anything wrong with specializing in a narrow field and becoming a high-end practitioner in what you like, as long as you also dedicate the time needed to be at least competent in the other fields of the endeavor.  What are these other necessary skills?

First and foremost, emergency medical skills.  At a MINIMUM, have a full command of the skills taught in the Stop the Bleed and CPR curriculums.  Carry the tools and know how to use them for self-application and for treating others.

Obviously, you should have at least rudimentary hand skills, know basic strikes and grappling techniques.  If you are not an enthusiast that goes to an MMA or Ju-Jitsu class on a regular basis, take the seminars offered by the combatives gurus in this space and practice those techniques regularly.  Even the very basics, practiced to reflexive response, significantly up your ability to prevail against aggressive physical assault. 

Skill with less lethal tools is also essential.  Eighty percent of assaults within CONUS on an annual basis are “simple” in nature, not justifying a lethal response.  Carrying less lethal tools, such as OC spray, and knowing how to use it effectively, should be a priority.  Less lethal tools are not an alternative to lethal weapons, but a needed tool for their own set of problems. 

A comprehensive understanding of use of force law is necessary, unless going to prison is an idea you like.  Being well familiar with the law codes that govern use of force is a must.  This is very much academic in nature, and is not as fun as shooting, but it is of vital importance.  You should, at minimum, read the top books on the subject, and better yet, take the classes offered by the leaders in this space. 

While specializing in any of these fields is fine, having at least basic competency in all the categories listed here is the best approach to being capable of defending yourself against interpersonal violence.  The self-defense community tends to be populated with shooting enthusiasts, or martial arts enthusiasts, etc…, many of which have no working knowledge at all of the other essentials.  Being a capable self-defender is a multi-dimensional pursuit.