Modern Hand to Hand Combat. Hakim Isler

constructed of scales, lamellar, or a full plate. It would serve to protect against stabs, slashes, and, in some instances, projectile deflection.

      I.B.A - Interceptor Body Armor (Army)

      The Interceptor Body Armor, also known as the Individual Body Armor (shown here with the side ballistic inserts), is worn to protect the torso of the body. Along with enhanced small-arms protective inserts, this body armor can protect a service member from an array of battlefield dangers that can cause bodily damage.

      Sode (Samurai)

      The sode was the piece of the samurai’s armor that protected his shoulder and upper arm. It normally hung over the shoulder to the elbow. Normally worn on both arms, these “many shields” (as some would call them) helped protect from slashes and stabs, and, in some instances, would deflect projectile weapons.

      Deltoid Upper Arm Protector (Army)

      The deltoid upper arm protector was fielded primarily as a means to help protect soldiers from shrapnel passing through the outside of the upper arm and into their torso. It attaches to the I.B.A and then straps under the arm.

      Tekko (Samurai)

      The tekko was the piece of the Samurai’s armor that protected his hands. It normally covered the back of the hand from the wrist to the middle knuckles. The tekko helped protect from the hands from cuts and abrasions and was, in some instances, used in strikes.

      Tactical Gloves (Army)

      Tactical gloves are used primarily to protect the hands from cuts and abrasions, as well as structural damage that could be sustained during a struggle. If they are made of fire retardant materials they can reduce fire related injuries.

       Japanese Armor

       American Armor

      Kusazuri (Samurai)

      The kusazuri protected the samurai’s upper thighs and groin area from slashes. Several of these plates would hang from the do and cover the upper front and back portion of the thighs.

      Groin Protector (Army)

      This piece of protective gear is worn to protect the groin area from shrapnel and other indirect projectile damage.