Karate Techniques & Tactics

I trained w/Shihan Hickey for a bit and have 18yrs experience in martial arts. When I left the Akron area, I purchased this book and have frequently used it as a resource for training and basics. Very practical, no fluff.

Having read probably hundreds of martial arts books, over nearly 25 years of karate training, I can say that Master Hickey has provided a tremendous service to both the beginning karate-ka and the advanced karate-ka. This book is the must-have book of the decade for any serious martial artist. If you don't yet own this book, add it to your library as soon as posssible. You will not regret purchasing it. The price is perfect too. It sits next to Funakoshi's Karate-do Kyohan when I'm not using it. My karate students are required to purchase it upon beginning training. This books adds immeasurably to their understanding of how to get the most benefit from karate training. Master Hickey not only traces the history of karate, but he emphasizes the proper etiquette that must be practiced by all karate students. This feature not only distinguishes the book, but it makes it a God-send for all parents of karate students.Instructors, students, and loved-ones of ma! rtial arts students can use this book for all types of essential knowledge. It is a must have...a "keeper."

I have a second degree black belt in Karate, and dan ranks in other Japanese martial arts. I do find this book good to the extent that it discusses the basics, the philosophy, the techniques, etc. quite thoroughly. However the bad side is that, it doesn't show detailed pictures for the concepts discussed.

Karate:Techniques and Tactics by Mr.Hickey is a good solid read and provides a wealth of information for beginners or peopl thinking about taking karate or other martial arts. The book is exactly what its called, it discusses and provides photos of many techniques, approximately a dozen stances, eight blocks with concepts on how to use additional variations of these blocks,info on falling and rolling,over a dozen punches and strikes,about a half-dozen kicks,knee and elbow smashes,etc. As well as important details on controlling your opponent and hit-move-hit and other tactics usually ignored in other books. There is also good background info on the origins of karate,benefits of martial training,etc. And the book doesnt drag on forever with boring details like some do.