[4.7.0] Kusanku Section-4 Bunkai (Counter to a Lapel Grasp)
The Difference between a Lapel Grasp Practice vs. Reality
The karateka needs to understand that when we practice this technique it is done in the classical manner. When we practice the one hand lapel grasp, it is to enable the opponent or tori to develop the mechanics of the technique. The reality is the opponent will be trying to strike you with their free hand or use it to break your balance, but the technique will still work. No one will simply grasp your garment.
Note: The elbow of the RH can be used to block the opponent’s free hand.
[4.7.0] Kusanku Section-4 Bunkai (Counter to a Lapel Grasp)
[Source:] [Isshin-ryu Black Belt]
[Rating: Moderate]
Note: What looks like a shuto guarding position is a shoulder lock from the front. When you place an opponent in a lock it is only a temporary endeavor to get them into a position to be thrown. Locks and strikes are used to set up takedowns and throws in karate. The Judoka would use kuzushi or pushing, pulling, lifting, and twisting.
Part-1 Attacker: Grasps you Lapel
Part-2 Defender: Front Elbow and Shoulder Lock
- Trap the attacker’s hand on the lapel with the (RH).
Note: You may need to slap the attacker’s face, with the open hand, as you move to trap the adversary’s hand.
- Wrap your left arm around the attacker’s arm (LH).
- Tie-off to the attacker’s clothing while locking the opponent’s elbow (LH).
Note: Straighten your left arm and apply pressure to the opponent’s elbow. This should cause the attacker to pull backwards trying to escape. This technique is designed to get the attacker to move backwards, but if he/she does not continue with the series of the bunkai regardless.
Part-3 Attacker: Pulls Backwards.
Part-4 Defender: Parry Blocks and Trap the Second Punch
- Release the hand trapped by the (RH) hand and trap the grasp with your (LH).
- Step behind the attacker’s lead leg.
- Shuto strike to the attacker’s neck (Carotid Plexus).
Note: The blow to the Carotid Artery should cause him/her to see stars. This is karate’s version of kuzushi (Breaking Balance).
- Grasp the attacker’s collar and push backwards.
- Throw the adversary with kosoto-gari (minor outside reap) or kouchi-gari (minor inside reap)
[End Series]
