Master knife designer and martial arts expert James Williams returns to The Knife Junkie Podcast for a deep examination of combat philosophy, escalation of force, and the intersection between traditional Japanese sword arts and modern self-defense.
Williams brings a background few can match. After serving in the U.S. Army from 1966 to 1969, he went on to study wrestling, boxing, kickboxing, Filipino martial arts, Russian Systema, and multiple Japanese koryu (traditional martial arts). He has spent years teaching close-quarters combat to military special operations personnel and has designed numerous knives for CRKT and other companies.
In this conversation, Williams discusses the difference between fear-based and faith-based operating systems in combat, why most modern martial arts rely on engagement and reciprocity that can get you killed with lethal weapons, and how the concept of silent victory with no touching of blades from ancient samurai sword systems informs his approach to knife design and defensive tactics.
Williams also shares practical advice on escalation of force, situational awareness, everyday carry tools, and teaching young people to stay safe in an increasingly dangerous world. From DEFCON levels of awareness to the importance of clearing dark spaces with a flashlight, this episode is packed with actionable information.
At nearly 80 years old, Williams continues to refine his teaching and reports getting faster rather than slower by eliminating tension and allowing natural body mechanics to do the work. His insights bridge ancient warrior traditions and modern tactical realities in a way few others can.
Listen to the full episode at www.theknifejunkie.com/631. Find James Williams online at www.williamsbladedesign.com and www.systemofstrategy.com, and follow him on Instagram at @williamsbladedesign and @system_of_strategy.
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