Most people assume abductions or unlawful restraints are problems for other countries. The reality: cartels, traffickers, and organized crime groups are already using these tactics here and now. Whether overseas or at home, the ability to escape restraints is one of the most empowering skills you can learn. At Sentinel
Violence doesn’t usually come when you’re locked in your house or sitting at your desk. It happens when you’re moving between safe zones—parking lots, gas stations, ATMs, lobbies, and public transit stops. These are called transitional spaces, and they’re some of the most dangerous environments
When the unexpected happens, you don’t rise to the occasion—you fall to your level of preparation. At Sentinel Combatives, we train not only your body and mind but also your ability to adapt with the tools you carry. That’s why Everyday Carry (EDC) isn’t just about
In a world where standing out can get you noticed—and sometimes targeted—there’s real power in being invisible. At Sentinel Combatives, we teach not just how to fight, but how to avoid a fight altogether. One of the most effective strategies is the Gray Man mindset: the art
Most people think warfare only happens with bullets, bombs, or blades. But today, some of the most dangerous battles are fought in your mind—through news feeds, social media posts, and subtle manipulation campaigns designed to shape your perception of reality. These campaigns are called influence operations, and they’re
At Sentinel Combatives, we train for the real world—not the perfect scenario. You may not always have a firearm, a blade, or even your hands free. But what you do have in nearly every situation is your environment—and that means tools, leverage, and options. Improvised weapons are not
In a world that’s faster, louder, and more chaotic than ever, maintaining situational awareness isn’t just a good habit—it’s a survival skill. And while we train the body and sharpen the mind at Sentinel Combatives, we also recognize a powerful truth: Technology—when used intentionally—can
“When danger comes to your door, you need more than a plan—you need a place.” Whether it’s a home invasion, natural disaster, or civil unrest, one of the most effective defensive tools you can have inside your own home is a designated safe room. Often overlooked or misunderstood,
Lessons from Ed Calderon’s Course & the Real-World Need for Escape Skills This past weekend, I attended a Counter Custody course with Ed Calderon—one of the most respected voices in non-permissive environment training. His material is gritty, tested, and refreshingly honest. But the biggest takeaway wasn’t just
At Sentinel Combatives, we believe that real self-defense begins long before any physical altercation—it starts with intuition, awareness, and the willingness to trust your instincts. Few resources capture this better than Gavin de Becker’s landmark book, The Gift of Fear, which powerfully underscores that intuition is our most
At Sentinel Combatives, we teach our students that self-protection doesn’t start when the fight does—it starts with prevention. Your home should be your sanctuary, but without proper security, it can become your greatest vulnerability. Whether you're home alone, asleep with your family, or away on vacation,
When people think about defensive pistol use, they often imagine standing on a flat range, firing at a paper target from 15 feet away in a perfect stance. But in the real world, that’s rarely how violence happens. Most violent encounters occur within arm’s reach, in crowded or