Karate – Shuto-Uke

Karate Block – Shuto-Uke (or Knife Hand Block)

This page will help you to learn Karate’s Shuto-Uke (Shoto-Uke) or “Knife Hand Block”. This Karate block uses an open hand (fingers together) versus a closed fist.

The rigid open hand of the Shuto-Uke (or knife hand block) extends the reach of the block (versus the slightly “shorter” reach of a closed fist block). A knife hand block can also be more quickly turned into a grab of an opponent’s arm, clothes, etc. Karate blocks are used in self-defense, Karate katas, Karate kihon, etc.

For more blocking information and videos, visit the main Karate Blocks section.

Instructional Videos for the Shuto-Uke or Knife Hand Block