HANDS OFF!: SELF-DEFENCE FOR WOMEN

by W.E. Fairbairn

Originally published during the Second World War, Major Fairbairn’s Hands Off! shows the emancipated woman how to deal with any unpleasant situation which would immeasurably increase their efficiency in the War Effort. The methods of self-defence explained and illustrated were especially selected for use by women, taking into account their disadvantages of weight, build and strength. They are all practicable, and many were originally worked out in answer to the question what should I do if I were attacked like this? Amongst the twenty measures advocated Wrist Hold – Being Strangled – How to Apply the Chin Jab – Bear Hug – Waist, Coat, Hair and Belt Holds – Umbrella Drill – Car Hold Up – Give Me a Light. They are all as valid today as they were seventy years ago.

52 pages, Paperback

Published November 26, 2020

Reviews

[Micah C · Rating 1 out of 5]

Outdated and trash. How could u knock out someone who has a gun with a matchbox??? Jesus. A lot of these techniques involve grappling and as we all know in grapples the strongest heaviest one usually wins unless they are trained fighters.


All in all this book gives a sound tip such as the chin jab technique, but honestly "Self defense made simple" by Phil Pierce is a much more sound, practical guide. If you were to follow the advice in this book, you'd become a victim more than likely.

[Omar Laguna · Rating 2 out of 5]

I wouldn’t recommend this book for self defense. Most of the techniques are basic and easy to use, but their effectiveness are dubious at best. However, it was still a fun read and definately highlights how much self defense has evolved in the last century.