Knife Hand Block

Martial Arts Knife Hand Block

This page will show you how to do a martial arts knife hand block. This blocking technique is used in many katas & forms.

With a knife hand block, martial arts students use the outside of an open hand in order to block an opponent’s attack (versus a closed fist used in many other blocks). This technique allows them to use their open hand to block and then grasp an opponent or counter attack with a knife hand strike. The disadvantage of knife hand techniques is the greater likelihood of damage to a martial artist’s fingers on the open knife hand (versus a closed fist with fingers curled & protected).

For more blocking techniques, please visit Black Belt Wiki’s main Martial Arts Blocks section.

Taekwondo Knife Hand Block

Karate Knife Hand Block

Karate Knife Hand Block