The Mythical 21-Foot Rule Understanding the Tueller Drill

This article examines the origins, purpose, and common misconceptions surrounding the so-called “21-foot rule” and the Tueller Drill. It explores how the drill was developed to demonstrate the potential speed and danger of a close-range edged-weapon attack, while clarifying that it was never intended to establish a fixed distance at which a particular response is automatically justified. By examining factors such as distance, movement, reaction time, positioning, environmental conditions, and individual circumstances, the article provides a clearer framework for understanding what the Tueller Drill actually demonstrates—and what it does not. Ultimately, it helps readers develop a more accurate understanding of the “21-foot rule,” avoid treating it as an absolute standard, and better appreciate the complexities involved in assessing rapidly developing close-range threats.

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