Extended Index Knuckle Punch – Martial Arts Technique

This page provides details on the martial arts “Extended Index Knuckle Punch”. This martial arts punch involves striking a small target with an extended index/forefinger knuckle. This punch is also known as Ippon Ken, Shark Tooth Punch, Pistol Poke, etc. Other extended knuckle punches include the one knuckle punch. For information on other punches & strikes, visit Black Belt Wiki’s main Punches & Strikes page.

Details for this Punch

  • To make the extended Index knuckle punch, the martial artist will start by making a basic fist.
  • They will then move their pointer finger knuckle forward so that the last joint of the pointer finger is even with second joint of the other fingers.
  • They will then place the pad of their thumb over the crease made by the bend of their first finger.
  • The martial artist can strike forward with this fist against a target. Less effective against hard/bony targets.
  • Martial artists can also punch down on the back of a hand that is holding them in order to force an attacker to release them.
  • Moreover, with this technique, a martial artist can still use their hand to do a back fist strike or a hammer fist strike.

Martial arts punches & strikes and all other martial arts techniques should only be practiced under the supervision of a trained martial arts instructor.