Defensive tactics training: Escape from a full nelson

Having been an active street cop for the entire 33 years of my police career, as well as an active police trainer for 43 years, in this series I share some of the defensive tactics techniques that helped me prevail on the street. The series presents a variety of defensive tactics in a format that allows you to follow the instructions and practice the technique. Remember practice makes prepared.

The full nelson is a commonly used street attack because it is one of the most easily applied street holds. 

This hold is especially dangerous to a police officer, because not only can it be employed to seriously injure the neck, but an officer can also be badly beaten and disarmed while being restrained in this hold. The hold is banned in high school and college wrestling because of its high propensity for injury. It is imperative that officers who find themselves the victim of such an assault be able to escape quickly.

Here is one viable option to train to prepare yourself in the event you wind up in this dangerous predicament.