When it comes to precision, speed, and tactical prowess, few cinematic portrayals are as iconic as Keanu Reeves in John Wick. The character's ability to dispatch adversaries with remarkable efficiency in close-quarters combat (CQC) has captivated audiences. A significant aspect of this portrayal is the firearm technique employed, which is often associated with the Center Axis Relock (CAR) system.
This method emphasizes control, retention, and effectiveness in tight spaces, making it a subject of interest for both enthusiasts and professionals. However, while John Wick popularized aspects of the technique, it’s worth noting that Hollywood's depiction may not fully represent the authentic CAR system as taught in the field. This article explores the CAR system’s origins and mechanics, and if you would like to learn it too, consider enrolling on a 2-day course with one of our expert training partners for a solid foundation in the system.
What is the Center Axis Relock (CAR) System?
The CAR system was developed by the late Paul Castle, a British firearms trainer with decades of experience. It was designed to address critical shortcomings of traditional shooting stances, especially in scenarios involving close-quarters engagements, such as urban environments, vehicle confrontations, or home defense.
Unlike the Isosceles or Weaver stances, the CAR system is built around a bladed stance that aligns the shooter’s body in a way that reduces their exposure to threats while maximizing control over the firearm. This makes it particularly effective for defensive shooting in law enforcement and military contexts.
Key Mechanics of the CAR System
- Bladed Stance:
- The shooter’s body is angled, presenting a smaller profile to adversaries and making it harder to target vital areas.
- The firearm is held closer to the chest than in traditional stances, which improves weapon retention and allows for smoother transitions between targets.
- Dual-Eye Targeting:
- Shooters are trained to keep both eyes open while aligning the firearm with their non-dominant eye, enhancing peripheral vision and situational awareness.
- This technique is especially useful in dynamic scenarios where threats may emerge from multiple directions.
- Close Proximity to the Body:
- Keeping the firearm close improves control, stability, and balance, which are crucial for accuracy during rapid fire or high-stress situations.
- It also reduces the chances of an attacker grabbing the weapon in a struggle.
- Push-Pull Grip:
- The CAR system incorporates a push-pull tension similar to the Weaver stance.
- The dominant hand pushes forward slightly, while the support hand pulls back to counterbalance recoil, facilitating faster follow-up shots.
Why the CAR System Stands Out
The CAR system addresses several limitations of traditional shooting stances, making it a tactical solution for specific challenges in close-quarters environments.
1. Close-Quarters Efficiency
Traditional stances often require more space, leaving the shooter vulnerable in tight environments such as vehicles, small rooms, or crowded areas. The CAR system’s compact positioning allows for better movement and control in confined spaces.
2. Weapon Retention
One of the most significant risks in close-quarters engagements is the possibility of an adversary disarming the shooter. By holding the firearm close to the chest, the CAR system minimizes this risk, keeping the weapon within the shooter’s secure control.
3. Enhanced Accuracy and Speed
The alignment of the firearm with the non-dominant eye and the shooter’s natural body mechanics reduces the time it takes to acquire and engage a target. The reduced recoil movement, thanks to the push-pull grip, also allows for faster follow-up shots.
4. Improved Peripheral Awareness
In high-stress scenarios, tunnel vision can compromise situational awareness. By keeping both eyes open, shooters using the CAR system maintain greater awareness of their surroundings, a critical advantage in dynamic, multi-threat environments.
The CAR system has practical uses across multiple fields:
- Law Enforcement: Officers benefit from the system’s compact stance and weapon retention capabilities during urban patrols and arrests.
- Military Operations: In urban warfare, the CAR system’s ability to reduce shooter exposure is invaluable.
- Private Security: Close protection specialists use the CAR system to protect VIPs in high-risk environments.
- Civilians: Self-defense enthusiasts can adopt the CAR system to enhance their personal safety in home defense or concealed carry scenarios.
The Center Axis Relock (CAR) system is more than a shooting stance — it’s a comprehensive approach to close-quarters combat that prioritizes efficiency, control, and safety. Whether you’re inspired by the precision of John Wick or preparing for real-world scenarios, the CAR system is a valuable addition to any tactical toolkit.
Take the first step toward mastery by enrolling in the CAR System course provided by BZ Academy here. With expert instruction and a hands-on curriculum, this course will equip you with the skills you need to excel in high-pressure environments.