“LET THE WEAPON BE THE TEACHER.”

A knife stands as the quintessential survival tool, deeply embedded in human history and daily life. Its significance extends beyond mere functionality; a blade has been pivotal to the evolutionary success of the human race. Throughout history, we have relied on knives for essential tasks such as food preparation, safety, and craftsmanship. Yet, the knife is often taken for granted, with its presence so normalized in our routines that we scarcely acknowledge its importance.

However, alongside its utility, the knife embodies a duality that warrants respect and caution. A knife can be a dangerous instrument, with the potential for causing harm and taking life. This inherent risk necessitates a deeper understanding and reverence for the tool. In acknowledging the knife's complexities, we recognize its potential both as a means of survival and as a weapon.

The philosophy of PRIMAL suggests that the knife should serve as a tutor in the art of self-defense. If a technique cannot be effectively employed against an armed adversary, it should not be taught. Thus, our approach to understanding and utilizing knife techniques demands a rigorous examination of our principles, emphasizing that mastery comes not merely from proficiency but from a profound respect for the knife's capabilities and consequences.

The machete, often viewed merely as a utilitarian agricultural tool, can be considered the modern equivalent of the sword. Its affordability and widespread availability make it accessible across diverse cultures and continents. Originally wielded for agricultural purposes, the machete was weaponized during periods of social upheaval, serving as a critical tool for enslaved individuals seeking liberation.

In contemporary contexts, the machete transcends its agricultural roots, appearing in both impoverished rural communities and urban environments, including cities in the UK and Europe, where it is employed in various forms of conflict. This undeniable resurgence of machete violence suggests a continuity of human behavior, echoing the ancient practice of dueling with swords.

The PRIMAL PACT system underscores the importance of understanding this weapon's biomechanics in self-defense scenarios. It advocates for comprehensive training in both wielding and countering machete attacks, emphasizing that preparation is paramount in ensuring personal safety. The machete's dual identity as a farming tool and a weapon reflects the complex relationship between humanity and violence, illustrating how tools can be repurposed in the face of conflict. This phenomenon speaks to a deeper, primal instinct for survival, highlighting our collective historical journey towards mastery over both tools and threats.

PACT - PRIMAL Armed Combat & Tactics, founded under the esteemed guidance of Alexander Zhelezniak and Noah Gross, represents a significant evolution in the realm of armed combat training. Building upon the principles established by Israel/Russian ACT - Armed Combat & Tactics, PACT adheres to the "Fight as you Teach, Teach as you Fight" philosophy, ensuring that practitioners receive authentic, real-world instruction designed to equip them for high-pressure full contact weapon fighting.

Emphasizing practical application, PACT incorporates full-contact training with safe weapons simulators, including machetes and knives, addressing both single and multiple opponent scenarios. This hands-on approach not only enhances the combat skills of its students but also fosters a deep understanding of knife defense and offensive techniques, shaping adept martial artists capable of responding to real-life threats.

Now operating independently of the ACT international school, PACT continues to serve as a vital resource for South Africans and international students alike. Its recognition by leading martial arts and security professionals underscores PACT's pioneering role in knife martial arts within South Africa and its status as a subject matter expert in knife violence prevention. Through its innovative curriculum and dedication to excellence, PACT positions itself at the forefront of contemporary martial arts, fulfilling the critical need for practical and effective armed combat training.