There are many corners in life, and you might have to deal with them during a defensive situation. It is vital to be able to clear corners. This can save your life.
Corners are not limited to buildings. A corner can also be a vehicle or a tree. It is best to learn about clearing corners at a school such as Gunsite Academy and not by watching late-night TV shows like “Miami Vice.”
Chris Weare, a retired police officer and Gunsite Academy instructor, shares 10 tips on how to negotiate corners.
Tip #1: Slice the pie
“Slicing the pie” is a method of dealing with corners. This involves slowly moving and looking so that you can see more around each corner. This does not mean that you should go all the way to the corner and then stick your gun around it. Always “pie” in a safe position.
Tip #2: Use corners as cover
Remember that you cannot see what you don’t see, so you can’t see what you see in return. There is no rush unless a loved one is screaming for your help. You are also protected by the same corner that protects a bad guy. Young grasshopper, be patient and take your time clearing corners if necessary.
Tip #3: Look beyond the Corner
Before you approach the corner, try to see as much space as possible beyond it. You don’t need to focus on the corner. As you move towards a corner, you can see or “pie” some space beyond it from a distance. Unless the potential assailant is trying to hide, they may be visible simply because they haven’t appreciated tip No. 4.
Tip #4: Don’t Linger in Doorways
Limit your time spent in doors and openings. Doors are often called “fatal channels” because they are where people look. They emit light which gives away your location. Do not stand in a doorway. Instead, “pie” as much as you can before you enter the doorway. Do not linger in the light.
Tip #5 – Partner up
If you have a partner, they will be able to cover your six or watch for additional danger areas while you are busy with the corner. You never know what kind of situation you might find yourself in when you need to deal with a corner. It could be at your home, or at a motel. Your partner can help you focus on what’s in front of you and behind you.
Tip #6 – Know the Difference between Single Corners and Double Corners
There are two types: singles and doubles. Learn the difference between single corners and double corners and how to manage them. A corner is the 90-degree edge on a wall. They are everywhere, both inside and outside. A double corner is the entrance to a hallway, room or between two cars in a garage. A single corner only allows you to deal with potential threats from one direction. A double corner can pose a threat from both directions.
Tip #7 – Double Corners = Double Your Effort
Clearing a double corner by yourself is easier if you choose which side to clear first. After establishing that one side is clear, turn on your feet and clear the other. This is a high-risk operation as you are exposing yourself to the other corner if you clear it completely. This is why tactical teams are not individuals but teams. Do not rush the process. However, when you do commit, be sure to move with a purpose in mind and keep your eyes open.
Tip #8: Don’t Waste Any Time After Clearing Corners
Once you have cleared the corner(s), don’t waste your time. Move into the new space and take full control. This is a reinforcement to tip #4. Do not stand in the doorway. Instead, move into the space and immediately identify the next and most important danger area.
Tip #9 – Work in conjunction with your partner
It’s a good idea to clear corners with a partner, but it should be practiced before you do. Corner clearing is easier when there are two of you. The process is simple for a single corner. See tip #5. It becomes more difficult when there are multiple corners. This is because team members must work together simultaneously. Each member of the team picks a side. One goes low, one goes high. Physical contact must be maintained in order to allow silent communication about potential threats.
Tip #10 – You don’t always have to move forward
Always evaluate the necessity of moving forward. You can make a corner and still end up in a dangerous place. Sometimes the risk is greater that the reward. There may be other options, such as waiting for law enforcement to assist, a buddy or not moving at all.
This is not all you need to know. This won’t make you a SWAT team member. This might help you save your face while looking at the noise in the garage.
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Personal Defense World published the article 10 Key Tips for Clearing Corners that May Save Your Ass appeared initially on Personal Defense World.
