Hira-Ken-Tsuki is the leopard punch of Karate. It uses the middle knuckles instead of the knuckles to punch. In sport Kumite is usually not allowed, but in full-contact Kumite is one of my favourite punches to perform especially when there are more narrow spaces to hit. In self-defense it might be a best idea to stick to standard Sei-Ken punches (top two kuncles punches).

Traditional execution:

• To obtain the Hira-Ken variant, perform any punch you want by extending completely the middle knuckles

Kumite execution:

• To obtain the Hira-Ken variant, close your fist as you normally would but make contact with the middle knucles.

Where to use (✅ - Use; ❌ - Don’t use; 🟨 - Last resource):

• Sport Kumite:
• Full-Contact Kumite:
• Self-Defense:

Video examples:

• hiraken