Kubotan School Schule

The S.D.S.

An S.D.S. is a self defense tool, roughly 8-15cm long. It is used in various martial arts. The origin is disputed, but is assumed to be in the Philippines or Japan. It has different names, depending on the style it is associated with. In Kobudo (meaning "ancient art of war") it is called a Kubotan, in modern Arnis it is a Dulo Dulo, and in Judo it's called a Yawara.

Essentially, the S.D.S. is a short stick that can be used to intensify hits and pressure application. The S.D.S. should be a few centimeters longer than the user's hand is wide, so both ends are visible when lying in a closed fist.

Pictured here are several everyday objects that can be used instead of an S.D.S.

This shows that the system is not based on the tool itself, but on the principles and techniques, and the applicability to everyday life, and this is the deciding factor in the success or failure of a weapons system used in self defense.

Anatomy of the S.D.S.

The S.D.S. is roughly 8-15cm long and has grooves every 1-3cm that prevent it from slipping out of the hand upon impact. The tip - "head" - is pointy on most models, the other side is flat and has a hole for a key ring. The S.D.S. is carried in the closed fist, gripped in the middle so that both ends are visible.

Is the S.D.S. the same as a Kubotan or Yawara stick?

Basically it is the same (just like a pen, a small flashlight or a spoon can be). But the application, the principles and tactics are completely different and new. The S.D.S.-Concept is a complete self defense system with its own individual principles, training methods and execution. It is based on insights and empirical findings from the use of and defense with weapons. Simplicity is the important factor for the practitioner. For the instructor it is adaptability and the technical possibilities the system affords. The S.D.S.-Concept is structured into nine levels, for instructor and practitioner training.

Who is the S.D.S. an appropriate self defense tool for?

Thanks to its simple basic principle, the S.D.S. is perfect for anybody who wants to feel better protected in dangerous situations. Especially people who have previously felt inferior in a conflict or an attack, feel more secure carrying an S.D.S. and can very effectively use it after only a short period of training. It is a particularly adequate tool in women's self defense.

How is the S.D.S. carried?

The S.D.S. usually has a hole on the flat end, so it is ideal, handy and inconspicuous as a key ring pendant. With its distinctive shape, it can be found quickly in a bag without looking. It can also be held in the hand when walking down the street.