This 19th-century self-defense manual—written by a master swordsman—will appeal to fencers and martial artists as well as fans of Victorian-era culture, steampunk, and American history Colonel Thomas Hoyer Monstery was a master swordsman who participated in more than fifty duels, fought under twelve flags, battled gangsters, and was constantly involved in the great conflicts and upheavals of his time. In the 1870s, he began writing his magnum opus—a series of newspaper articles that are now collected here for the first time in Self-Defense for Gentleman and Ladies. In this book, Colonel Monstery presents a unique look into the Victorian-era fighting world. He describes styles such as British “purring” (shin-kicking), Welsh jump-kicking, and American rough-and-tumble fighting, in addition to providing illustrated instruction in the art of gentlemanly self-defense with a cane, staff, or one’s bare hands. Fifty rare drawings and photographs from the period illuminate Monstery’s world, while an extensive glossary of terms and an introductory biography of Colonel Monstery—including fascinating details of his many duels as well as his groundbreaking devotion to teaching fencing and self-defense skills to women—update his text to make it accessible and useful to gentlemen and ladies of any era. Contents Colonel Thomas Hoyer Monstery: The Unknown American Martial Arts Master I. Introduction. II. The Logic of Boxing. III. Standing and Striking. IV. Advancing to Strike and Feinting. V. Simple Parries in Boxing. VI. Parries with Returns. VII. Effective or Counter Parries in Boxing. VIII. Offence and Defense by Evasions. IX. Trips, Grips, and Back-Falls. X. Rules for a Set-to with Gloves. XI. Observations on Natural Weapons. XII. The Use of the Cane. XIII. The Use of the Cane (continued). XIV. The Use of the Staff. XV. The Use of the Staff (continued). Appendix: Monstery's Rules for Contests of Sparring and Fencing Glossary

This book will take you through the history of knuckle dusters and also present you with information on how they can be used for self defense.

Japanese small arms, while less sophiscated than those of her adversaries in World War II, still served their intended purposes well. Japanese Rifles of World War II is a sweeping view of the rifles and carbines that made up Japan's arsenal during that conflict. Chapters include Arisaka development and Japanese rifle markings; the Type 38 rifle, carbine and cavalry rifle; the Type 44 carbine; the Type I rifle, the Type 99 rifle and long rifle; the Type 2 paratroop rifle; and Concentric Circle rifles. Additional chapters deal with sniper rifles, the Naval Special Type 99 rifle, the Type 02/45 rifle, the North China Type 19 carbine, training rifles, bayonets and slings. The book contains 81 photographs and numerous illustrations. Contact Excalibur Publications, PO Box 35369, Tucson, AZ 85740-5369. Voice: (520) 575-9068. Fax: (520) 575-9068.

This Book is the world's best cure of the bully. If you are armed with a clear mind and righteous wrath, you need fear no rough-neck after you've mastered the simple easy holds of the greatest JIU JITSU TEACHER. Police Jiu Jitsu will keep you SPELL-BOUND with the simplicity of its wonderful quick-action defenses. Learn to successfully and quickly end offensive advance or attack. Learn to protect yourself and your friends under all circumstances without ever striking a blow.

Discover the truth about strange and ancient weapons like the atlatl, the sarissa, the urumi and the maka pahoa ko'oko'o in this fascinating history of weapons.

This section contains a variety of books on guns, knives, bombs, guerilla warfare, and exotic weapons. There is something for everyone here. This is the only book ever written on the bloody art of razor fighting. More than 60 photographs demonstrate the easy-to-understand techniques. Carrying and Concealing Razors -- Fighting Grips -- Stance and Body Movement -- Vital Target Areas -- Basic Attacks -- How to Win a Razor Fight -- And Much More.

The Boston Police Department was formed by a man who had twice failed in business, ran a bar in the poorest district of Boston, and was charged with two assaults. When Francis Tukey became City Marshal in 1846, he faced off against some of the most notorious criminals of the time. Under Tukey's leadership, the police were known for their coordinated "descents" on gamblers, rumrunners and prostitutes. This book aims to recount the story of the formation of the Boston Police Department, featuring many of the department's earliest cases and crises. Significant tales include the conflict following the Fugitive Slave Act of 1850, when Tukey and his officers avoided enforcing the law, even helping enslaved people further escape. Also covered are the department's dealings with Irish refugees and the Cholera epidemic of 1849.

With an entire section dedicated to hair pulling, including a hair based throw, this 1712 manual falls squarely under the heading of Rough & Tumble fighting, and is a hidden gem belonging to the rich realm of Historical European Martial Arts. The images produced by this Flemish engraver Romein De Hooge are elaborate, violent, and amusing all at once. Dip into the martial past with Ye Olde Ruff & Tumble.