The most common techniques in Wado Kai

Junzuki        Step forward punch - turn - head block
Gyakuzuki        Step reverse punch - turn - low block
Junzuki No Tsukomi        Step forward lunge punch to the head - long stance
Gyakuzuki No Tsukomi        Step reverse lunge punch in low to the body - wide stance


Kette Junzuki        Front kick forward punch
Kette Gyakuzuki        Front kick reverse punch
Kette Junzuki No Tsukomi        Front kick forward lunge punch to the head - long stance
Kette Gyakuzuki No Tsukomi        Front kick reverse lunge punch in low to the body - wide stances
Maegeri        Front kick
Surikomi Maegeri        One step front kick


Mawashigeri Chudan        Roundhouse kick body height
Surikomi Mawashigeri Chudan       One step roundhouse kick body height
Mawashigeri Jodan        Roundhouse kick head height
Surikomi Mawashigeri Jodan        One step roundhouse kick head height


Sokuto Chudan        Side kick body height
Surikomi Sokuto Chudan        One step side kick body height
Sokuto Jodan        Side kick head height
Surikomi Sokuto Jodan        One step side kick head height


Ushirogeri Chudan        Back kick body height


Ushiro Mawashigeri Jodan        Reverse roundhouse kick head height
Surikomi Ushiro Mawashigeri Jodan        One step reverse roundhouse kick head height


Tobikomizuki        Slide body straight forward punch to the head
Nagashizuki        Slide body straight forward then twist body punch to the head

Wado-Ryu Karate is characterized by its unique blend of striking, grappling, and evasion techniques. Here are some basic techniques commonly practiced in Wado-Ryu:

Stances (Tachiwaza):

Heisoku-dachi (Closed-Toe Stance) A basic stance where the feet are together and parallel, with knees slightly bent. This stance offers minimal mobility and is typically used at the beginning or end of kata or formal exercises. While it offers little in terms of offensive or defensive applications, it is essential for understanding balance and alignment.
Musubi-dachi (Ready Stance) Similar to Heisoku-dachi but with the heels together and toes pointed outward, creating a "V" shape. This stance is primarily a preparatory or formal stance, used at the beginning of training, during bowing ceremonies, or at the start of kata. It emphasizes readiness and focus.
Zenkutsu-dachi (Front Stance) A powerful, forward-facing stance where 70% of the body weight is placed on the front leg and 30% on the back leg. The front knee is bent, aligning with the toes, while the back leg remains straight. This stance is used to generate forward momentum and power for strikes or thrusts, commonly employed in basic movements and kata.
Shiko-dachi (Sumo Stance) A wide, low stance with feet turned outward and knees bent, reminiscent of a sumo wrestler's stance. This position offers excellent balance and power generation, especially for strong, downward strikes or blocks. Shiko-dachi promotes stability and is often used in defensive techniques or when transitioning between stances.
Sanchin-dachi (Hourglass Stance) A narrow, rooted stance with feet shoulder-width apart and turned inward slightly. Both knees are bent inward, and the stance focuses on tension and breathing control. Sanchin-dachi is essential for body conditioning, emphasizing stability, rootedness, and the internal generation of power. It's commonly used in kata such as "Sanchin."
Kokutsu-dachi (Back Stance) A backward-facing stance where the majority of the body weight (around 70%) is placed on the back leg. The front leg is slightly bent with the toes pointing forward, while the back leg bends more significantly, creating a defensive posture. This stance allows quick evasive movements, powerful blocks, and immediate counter-attacks.
Kiba-dachi (Horse Stance) Also known as a "Riding Horse" stance, this is a wide, low stance where the feet are parallel and shoulder-width apart, with the knees bent deeply. The weight is evenly distributed across both legs. This stance is ideal for stability and generating power, often used in techniques requiring a strong base, such as punches or downward blocks. Kiba-dachi is frequently practiced in basic drills and kata.
Neko-ashi-dachi (Cat Stance) A more mobile, light stance where approximately 90% of the body weight is placed on the back leg, with the front leg lightly touching the ground with the toes. This stance allows for rapid movement, quick transitions between offense and defense, and subtle adjustments in positioning. It's often used in defensive movements, enabling fast dodges or strikes.
Hangetsu-dachi (Half-Moon Stance) Similar to Sanchin-dachi but more elongated, Hangetsu-dachi is a stance with the feet shoulder-width apart and a crescent-shaped positioning of the feet. The front foot is angled slightly inward, and the back foot is positioned similarly but farther back. It emphasizes tension and dynamic tension in the legs, promoting stability and power. It is commonly seen in advanced kata.
Kosa-dachi (Cross Stance) In Kosa-dachi, the legs are crossed, with one leg stepping behind the other, knees bent slightly. This stance is often used in evasive movements or to prepare for a sudden change in direction. It creates a compact posture, ideal for transitioning into strikes or spinning techniques.
Teiji-dachi (T-Shaped Stance) In Teiji-dachi, the front foot is placed forward while the back foot is turned inward, forming a "T" shape when viewed from above. The weight distribution is more neutral compared to Zenkutsu-dachi or Kokutsu-dachi. This stance is used in defensive or transitional movements, providing a balance between mobility and stability.
Fudo-dachi (Rooted Stance) Also known as an "immovable" or "rooted" stance, Fudo-dachi is a combination of Zenkutsu-dachi and Kiba-dachi. The feet are positioned wider apart than in a front stance, with the body more upright. This stance emphasizes stability while allowing for powerful, grounded strikes. It's often used in advanced kata to showcase strength and focus.

These stances provide a comprehensive framework for balance, power, and mobility in Wado Ryu Karate, each serving specific functions in both offensive and defensive strategies. Mastering these stances is critical for effective movement and technique application in karate.

Strikes (Uchi-waza):

Oi-zuki (Front Punch) A straight punch delivered with the lead hand, typically aimed at the opponent's midsection or face.
Gyaku-zuki (Reverse Punch) A straight punch delivered with the rear hand, often used as a follow-up to Oi-zuki or in combination with other techniques.
Uraken-uchi (Backfist Strike) A striking technique using the back of the fist, executed with a whipping motion and targeting the opponent's face or temple.
Shuto-uchi (Knife Hand Strike) A powerful strike using the outer edge of the hand, delivered in a slicing motion. Typically aimed at vital points such as the neck, temple, or collarbone. The hand is held open with fingers extended but slightly curved to maintain tension.
Tettsui-uchi (Hammer Fist Strike) A strike delivered using the bottom part of the clenched fist, similar to a hammering motion. This strike is powerful and often aimed at the opponent’s temple, collarbone, or groin.
Tate-zuki (Vertical Punch) A straight punch where the fist remains vertical throughout the execution. Unlike the typical twisting punch, Tate-zuki is used at close range, targeting the midsection or face with a short, powerful motion.
Morote-zuki (Double Fist Punch) This is a simultaneous punch delivered with both hands, often used in close-range situations. The fists move in parallel, striking at the opponent’s midsection or chest.
Ago-uchi (Uppercut Strike) A short-range punch delivered upward, often targeting the opponent's chin or jaw. The strike can be performed with either hand and is effective in close combat situations.
Haito-uchi (Ridge Hand Strike) A strike using the inside edge of the hand (the thumb side), often targeting the opponent’s neck, temple, or ribs. The thumb is tucked, and the hand is swung in a circular motion.
Empi-uchi (Elbow Strike) A strike delivered with the elbow, used in close-range fighting. It can be directed upward, downward, or horizontally, targeting areas like the ribs, jaw, or solar plexus. The elbow strike is particularly effective in clinch situations.
Kentsui-uchi (Inverted Fist Strike) Similar to Tettsui-uchi but delivered with the fist in an inverted position. The bottom of the fist is swung down like a hammer, often aimed at the head or collarbone.
Kizami-zuki (Jab Punch) A quick, snapping punch delivered with the lead hand, often used to disrupt the opponent’s timing. Kizami-zuki is commonly aimed at the opponent’s face or upper chest and is used to create openings for more powerful techniques.
Nukite (Spear Hand Strike) A strike delivered with the tips of the fingers extended, with the hand in a spear-like formation. Nukite is aimed at soft tissue targets like the throat, solar plexus, or eyes. Precision is key to this technique.
Mawashi-zuki (Hook Punch) A circular punch delivered in a hooking motion, usually aimed at the opponent’s jaw or ribs. It is executed by swinging the arm in a semi-circular motion, generating power from the hips and shoulders.
Shotei-uchi (Palm Heel Strike) A strike delivered with the base of the palm, typically targeting the opponent’s nose, chin, or solar plexus. Shotei-uchi can be used to push or stun the opponent without the risk of injuring the striker’s hand.

These additional strikes emphasize the versatility of Wado-Ryu Karate, which combines direct punches and kicks with circular strikes and close-range techniques. Each strike has its application in different fighting scenarios, ranging from long-distance engagements to close-quarters combat.

Kicks (Geri-waza):

Mae-geri (Front Kick) A direct kick delivered with the ball of the foot or the instep, targeting the opponent's midsection or lower body. Mae-geri is one of the most basic and effective kicks, providing speed and power.
Mawashi-geri (Roundhouse Kick) A circular kick delivered with the top of the foot or the shin, aimed at the opponent’s ribs, head, or legs. The body pivots to generate power as the leg swings in an arc to strike the target.
Yoko-geri (Side Kick) A powerful kick where the striking leg is extended to the side, with the edge or heel of the foot aimed at the opponent’s ribs, solar plexus, or knee. Yoko-geri requires strong hip rotation and balance for maximum impact.
Ushiro-geri (Back Kick) A straight, powerful kick delivered backwards with the heel. It is used when the opponent is behind you, targeting their midsection or face. Ushiro-geri is known for its surprise element and powerful thrust.
Hiza-geri (Knee Kick) A close-range strike delivered with the knee, often aimed at the opponent's midsection or face. It is highly effective in clinch situations, used to break an opponent's guard or as a follow-up to other strikes.
Gedan-barai (Low Sweep) A sweeping kick aimed at the opponent’s legs, particularly the ankle or shin. This technique is used to destabilize the opponent by knocking them off balance, setting up follow-up attacks.
Ura-mawashi-geri (Hook Kick) A reverse roundhouse kick where the heel is used to strike the opponent, usually targeting the head or neck. The kick is delivered in a hooking motion, generating power from the hips and rotation.
Fumikomi-geri (Stomp Kick) A downward stamping kick delivered with the heel, typically aimed at the opponent's knee, foot, or thigh. Fumikomi-geri is effective in close-range combat and can incapacitate an opponent by targeting joints.
Ashikubi-geri (Ankle Kick) A sweeping or snapping kick aimed at the opponent’s ankle, used to disrupt their balance or attack their legs in a swift motion. Ashikubi-geri is commonly used as a follow-up technique to other kicks.
Tobi-geri (Jumping Kick) A dynamic and acrobatic kick where the practitioner jumps into the air before delivering the strike. It can be combined with other kicks like Mae-geri or Yoko-geri for added power and surprise.
Gyaku-mawashi-geri (Reverse Roundhouse Kick) A spinning kick where the practitioner pivots 360 degrees, delivering a powerful strike with the heel or ball of the foot. This kick is usually aimed at the head or ribs and is highly effective when performed with precision and speed.
Kin-geri (Groin Kick) A quick and direct kick aimed at the groin, usually delivered with the instep or toes. Kin-geri is often used in self-defense scenarios due to its effectiveness in neutralizing an opponent.
Tsuri-ashi-geri (Sliding Kick) A kick performed while sliding or shifting the body forward, often used to cover distance while maintaining power and balance. It can be combined with Mae-geri or Yoko-geri for a surprise attack.

These kicks are integral to Wado-Ryu Karate, offering a range of options for both offensive and defensive strategies. The variety of angles and targets make leg and foot techniques versatile in both long-range and close-quarter combat.

Blocks (Uke-waza):

Jodan-uke (High Block) A block aimed at protecting the head and upper body from high-level attacks. The arm is raised above the head with the forearm angled outward to deflect punches or strikes aimed at the face or head.
Gedan-barai (Downward Block) A sweeping block performed to protect the lower body, especially against kicks or strikes targeting the legs or groin. The arm moves in a downward arc to deflect incoming attacks.
Chudan-uke (Middle Block) A block that defends the torso against punches or strikes aimed at the midsection. The arm is extended outward at chest level, with the forearm angled to deflect attacks.
Soto-uke (Outside Block) A block where the arm moves from the inside to the outside, deflecting strikes aimed at the midsection or head. It is often used in defense against punches or straight attacks.
Uchi-uke (Inside Block) A block where the arm moves from the outside to the inside, deflecting an attack aimed at the torso or head. Uchi-uke is typically used against punches and helps maintain close-range defense.
Shuto-uke (Knife Hand Block) A block using the outer edge of the hand, often referred to as a "knife hand." This block is performed with the arm extended outward and the hand open, used to intercept and redirect an opponent’s strike.
Morote-uke (Reinforced Block) A two-handed block where one hand supports the blocking arm for extra strength. This block is used to defend against particularly strong attacks, such as powerful punches or kicks.
Age-uke (Rising Block) A rising block used to defend against overhead strikes or high kicks. The arm is raised vertically with the forearm angled slightly outward to deflect the incoming attack.
Nagashi-uke (Sweeping Block) A parrying block where the arm sweeps an attack aside rather than meeting it with force. This block is used to redirect the opponent's momentum, often followed by a counterattack.
Kake-uke (Hooking Block) A hooking block where the arm is extended outward in a hooking motion, deflecting strikes or grabbing the opponent’s limb to control their movement. It’s often used to set up counter-attacks.
Teisho-uke (Palm Heel Block) A block where the palm of the hand is used to deflect an attack. The hand is held open, and the base of the palm meets the incoming strike, typically used against punches or weapons.
Kakiwake-uke (Wedge Block) A two-handed block used to defend against grabs or frontal attacks. The arms form a wedge shape as they push outward, breaking the opponent’s grip or deflecting strikes.
Ude-uke (Forearm Block) A block using the forearm to intercept and deflect attacks, commonly used against punches or kicks. This block relies on strong, direct movements and is often followed by counterattacks.
Haito-uke (Ridge Hand Block) A block where the inside edge of the hand is used to deflect an attack, often aimed at mid-level strikes. Similar to a knife-hand block, but the strike comes from the thumb side of the hand.
Mawashi-uke (Circular Block) A circular block where the arms move in a circular motion to deflect attacks. This block is designed to parry multiple strikes and is used in both defensive and offensive strategies.
Heiko-uke (Parallel Block) A two-handed block where the arms are extended forward in parallel, often used to block wide or strong attacks. It offers strong defense and is commonly used against powerful kicks or punches.
Sukui-uke (Scooping Block) A block where the hand or arm scoops upward, often used to deflect low attacks such as kicks. This block allows for a counterattack by lifting the opponent’s limb or destabilizing them.
Ura-uke (Inverted Block) A block where the forearm rotates inward to deflect attacks. This technique is used when in close range, and the inverted position provides greater leverage and control over the opponent’s strike.

These blocks form the defensive foundation of Wado-Ryu Karate, offering a wide range of techniques to neutralize an opponent’s attack. Mastering each block allows for effective defense and the opportunity to counterattack with precision.

Sweeping Techniques (Ashi-barai):

De-ashi-barai (Advanced Foot Sweep) A sweeping technique that targets the opponent’s front leg as they step forward. The practitioner times the sweep perfectly as the opponent's foot is about to make contact with the ground, sweeping the foot outward to unbalance and topple the opponent.
Okuri-ashi-barai (Sliding Foot Sweep) A dynamic sweep performed as the practitioner slides forward, targeting both of the opponent's legs simultaneously. The practitioner uses the momentum of their forward slide to generate force in the sweep, making it difficult for the opponent to recover balance.
Harai-goshi (Sweeping Hip Throw) A combination of a hip throw and a sweeping motion, where the practitioner first pivots their hips to throw the opponent while simultaneously using their leg to sweep the opponent off balance. The hip and leg work together to create a powerful, sweeping takedown.
Sasae-ashi (Supporting Foot Sweep) A sweep where the practitioner blocks the opponent's foot while pulling them forward, unbalancing them. This technique is effective in countering forward momentum and destabilizing the opponent.
Hiza-barai (Knee Sweep) A sweeping technique that targets the opponent's knee instead of the foot. The practitioner directs a sweeping motion to the inside or outside of the opponent's knee, causing them to lose balance and fall.
Kouchi-gari (Minor Inner Reap) A subtle sweeping technique targeting the opponent's inside leg. The practitioner reaps the leg by hooking their foot around the opponent's ankle or lower leg, pulling it inward while simultaneously pushing the opponent’s upper body backward.
Ouchi-gari (Major Inner Reap) A powerful sweeping technique that involves sweeping the opponent's inner leg from the inside, similar to Kouchi-gari but with more force and targeting the back of the opponent’s leg. The practitioner uses their foot to hook and drive the leg backward, causing the opponent to fall.
Uchimata-barai (Inner Thigh Sweep) A sweeping technique that targets the opponent’s inner thigh. This sweep is typically performed while in close proximity to the opponent and aims to lift and sweep the leg from the inside to force the opponent off balance.
Soto-maki-komi (Outer Winding Sweep) A sweeping technique where the practitioner wraps their arm around the opponent's body while sweeping their leg from the outside, twisting and unbalancing the opponent in the process. This technique requires precise timing and body mechanics to execute successfully.
Kani-basami (Scissors Sweep) A sweeping technique that involves scissoring the opponent’s legs from the front or behind. The practitioner drops low to the ground and uses both legs to trap and sweep the opponent’s legs from under them, forcing them into a fall. This is a high-risk, high-reward technique, often used in advanced situations.

These sweeping techniques (Ashi-barai) are crucial for disrupting an opponent's balance and creating opportunities for takedowns or follow-up attacks. By mastering the timing and precision required for sweeps, practitioners can effectively neutralize their opponent’s stance and movement, setting up for further offensive techniques.

Kumite Techniques:

Jiyu Kumite (Free Sparring) A form of open sparring where both practitioners use any techniques in a controlled manner. Jiyu Kumite emphasizes adaptability, timing, and distance management, allowing practitioners to apply various strikes, kicks, and defenses in real-time against a moving opponent.
Yakusoku Kumite (Pre-arranged Sparring) A set of pre-arranged sparring sequences designed to practice specific combinations of attacks and defenses. Yakusoku Kumite helps in developing timing, coordination, and the fluid application of techniques. Each practitioner knows the attack and response beforehand, allowing for focused practice on form and execution.
Ippon Kumite (One-Step Sparring) A one-step sparring exercise where the defender counters a single, pre-determined attack with a defensive move and counter-attack. Ippon Kumite focuses on perfecting technique, precision, and decisive movements, often practiced with controlled power and intent.
Kihon Kumite (Basic Sparring) A structured sparring drill where the practitioner focuses on fundamental techniques, such as blocking and counter-attacking. Kihon Kumite is useful for building foundational skills in a safe, controlled environment before progressing to more advanced sparring.
Shiai Kumite (Tournament Sparring) Competitive sparring conducted under specific rules, often in a tournament setting. Shiai Kumite emphasizes scoring points through clean, controlled strikes and defenses, with practitioners aiming to demonstrate technical skill, speed, and strategy.
Kata Kumite (Kata-Based Sparring) A sparring drill based on movements and sequences from kata (forms). Kata Kumite allows practitioners to apply the techniques learned in kata to live sparring, emphasizing the practical application of traditional movements.
Jiyu Ippon Kumite (Semi-Free Sparring) A sparring drill where the attacker announces their attack (such as a punch or kick), and the defender responds freely with a block and counter-attack. Jiyu Ippon Kumite bridges the gap between pre-arranged and free sparring, allowing for creativity in the response while maintaining structure in the attack.
Tameshiwari Kumite (Breaking Sparring) A specialized form of sparring or demonstration where the practitioner focuses on techniques used for breaking objects (like boards or tiles) to show power and focus. Tameshiwari Kumite emphasizes precision, strength, and mental focus in executing powerful strikes.

These various Kumite techniques provide a comprehensive training framework for practitioners of Wado-Ryu Karate, combining both pre-arranged and free sparring methods. Each type of Kumite serves to develop specific skills, from timing and precision to adaptability and strategy, enhancing the practitioner’s overall sparring ability.

Combination Techniques (Renraku-waza):

Oi-zuki, Gyaku-zuki, Mawashi-geri A combination of a lead punch, reverse punch, and roundhouse kick used in quick succession to overwhelm an opponent.
Mae-geri, Kizami-zuki, Uraken-uchi A front kick followed by a jab and backfist, used to create distance and disorient the opponent.
Soto-uke, Gyaku-zuki, Hiza-geri An outside block, reverse punch, and knee strike used for close-quarters counter-attacks.

Observation Practice (Mitori Geiko):

A form of training where practitioners learn techniques by observing others. This method is particularly useful during injury recovery or when refining technique without direct participation.

Five Principles of Defense (Uke no Go Gensoku):

1. Nagasu (Flowing) Redirect the opponent's energy using flowing movements rather than meeting force with force.
2. Inasu (Diverting) Evade the attack by subtly shifting body angles, allowing the attack to pass harmlessly.
3. Noru (Riding) Move in the same direction as the opponent's attack to neutralize its power.
4. Irimi (Entering) Step into the opponent's space to take control of their attack, usually combined with a strike or throw.
5. Kusemi (Evasion) Sidestep or duck to avoid the attack, followed by a counter-attack.

Self-Defense Applications (Goshin-jutsu):

Defense against Punches Techniques that involve blocking, parrying, or evading an opponent's punch and countering with strikes or grappling techniques. Practitioners can use swift footwork (tai sabaki) to move out of the line of attack, while employing blocks like age-uke (rising block) or soto-uke (outer block) to deflect the punch. Immediate counterattacks may include strikes such as gyaku-zuki (reverse punch) or uraken-uchi (backfist), followed by grappling techniques like kote-gaeshi (wrist twist throw) to neutralize the attacker.
Defense against Grabs Techniques for breaking free from wrist, arm, or clothing grabs and countering with strikes or joint locks. Common responses include using wrist rotations to break the opponent's grip, applying joint locks like ikkyo (first control) or ude-garami (arm entanglement), and following up with strikes to disable the attacker. In situations where the opponent grabs clothing, practitioners can use strikes such as empi-uchi (elbow strike) or employ leverage techniques to unbalance the attacker.
Defense against Chokes Techniques designed to escape from a chokehold by using strikes, joint manipulation, or body shifting. A common response involves pressing down on the opponent’s elbows while shifting the body to escape the choke. Counterattacks may include strikes like nukite (spear hand) to the throat or atemi (vital point strikes) to sensitive areas such as the solar plexus.
Defense against Knife Attacks Techniques that focus on evading or redirecting a knife attack, followed by joint locks or disarming methods. Practitioners use tai sabaki (body movement) to avoid the knife's path, employing techniques like irimi (entering) or tenkan (turning) to close the distance and control the attacker’s arm. Once the knife hand is secured, joint locks such as kote-gaeshi (wrist twist) or sankyo (third control) can be applied to disarm the opponent.
Defense against Multiple Attackers Strategies for defending against multiple opponents using footwork, positioning, and rapid counterattacks. Practitioners focus on maintaining mobility, positioning themselves to avoid being surrounded, and using decisive strikes or throws to incapacitate attackers one by one. Techniques such as soto-uke (outer block) combined with strikes like mae-geri (front kick) can be used to create space, while throws like o-goshi (hip throw) can disable opponents quickly.
Defense against Ground Attacks Techniques for defending oneself while on the ground, including strikes, joint locks, and positional escapes. Practitioners can use maneuvers like juji-gatame (cross arm lock) or hiza-geri (knee strikes) to incapacitate an opponent, while also learning how to quickly regain their footing using tactical rolls or sweeps like de-ashi-barai (advanced foot sweep).
Defense against Bear Hugs Techniques to escape from a bear hug by creating space and applying strikes or joint locks. A common escape involves using the hips to generate space while striking backward with elbows or stamping on the attacker’s feet. Once space is created, techniques like sankyo (third control) can be applied to break the grip and neutralize the attacker.
Defense against Rear Attacks Techniques for defending against attacks from behind, such as a grab or strike. Practitioners use evasive footwork (such as tai-no-sabaki) and techniques like uraken-uchi (backfist strike) to counterattack swiftly, while simultaneously turning to face the attacker. Techniques such as ushiro-geri (back kick) can also be employed to strike while maintaining distance.
Defense against Club Attacks Techniques for evading or blocking a club attack, followed by disarming the opponent. Practitioners use circular evasion (tenkan) to avoid the swing of the club and redirect the force. Techniques such as ude-garami (arm entanglement) or kote-gaeshi (wrist twist throw) can be applied to disarm the attacker once their balance is broken.

Self-defense applications (Goshin-jutsu) in Wado-Ryu Karate focus on practical, real-world scenarios where the practitioner must respond to different types of physical attacks. Each technique emphasizes timing, precision, and efficiency, ensuring that the defender can neutralize the threat quickly while minimizing harm.