Which technique describes triangular frame retention with a rear elbow strike when the subject makes a one-handed cross-grab on the handgun from behind?

• A. the triangular frame retention and FRONT elbow strike
• B. the triangular frame retention and REAR elbow strike
• C. the triangular frame retention and SIDE elbow strike
• D. the triangular frame retention and CENTER elbow strike

Answer: (B)

Triangular frame retention with a rear elbow strike is the technique described for a one-handed cross-grab on a handgun from behind. When the grip comes from behind, you need to both secure the weapon-hand and disrupt the attacker’s balance without turning into them. Forming a triangular frame with your hands around the attacker’s grabbing hand helps control the firearm and limit its motion, preventing a quick re-grab or re-aim. The rear elbow strike then targets the attacker’s torso from that behind position, using your body’s mass to create space and break the grip enough to escape or gain distance. Front, side, or center elbow strikes wouldn’t align as effectively with the behind-the-back angle and could fail to preserve control or create the necessary separation.