Sigung Clear sent me a tape at his own expense. Here's a man who stands behind his art. He isn't afraid to have potential "unbelievers" view the material, nor does he preface the tape by claiming only those steeped in Silat will be able to see the tape contents for what they are. No, Mr. Clear sent me a tape without hesitation -- which says something about both the man and the art he teaches.

Read the review here (http://www.philelmore.com/martial/clearsilat.htm).

I've always liked using open-hand slaps. It sets up the grab quite nicely, as pointed out in the review.

I'm extremely paranoid about blood, too, and open-hand strikes are the best way to reduce the possibility of breaking the skin of your hands and mingling your blood with the attacker's. (Not to mention that damage to the bones of your hand and wrist is less likely with properly executed open-hand blows.)