The definition of Guerrilla warfare is as follows

'it is a method of unconventional combat by which a smaller group of combatants attempt to use the element of surprise (ambushes etc) to defeat a larger stronger foe. It will often employ surprise attacks on vulnerable targets and then attempt to fade away leaving its enemy dazed and confused and often defeated.'

During World War two British Commandos and other resistence forces throughout Europe employed Guerrilla tactics against the German military. Their aim was to cause as much havoc and destruction behind enemy lines to curtail and slow down the Nazi war machine.

They often opertated and worked in small numbers and faced a stronger and better armed enemy however they still managed to successfully employ 'unconventional combat' to destroy oil tanks fighter planes on the ground and flank the enemy, causing confusion, fear and turning the tables on the Germans and Japanese army. They were so sucessful in fact that Hitler ordered his military to refuse parlay on any commando units captured.

You may not find yourself in the middle of a battlefield but the tactics utilised by the famous British Commandos and 'Marauders' can be used in a self defence situation. You are unlikely to be attacked by a single unarmed smaller opponent what you are likely to face is a much larger opponent who is likely to be armed and will probably have his 'mates' with him.

The key words to be found in the above definition are 'unconventional' 'element of surprise' and 'vulnerable targets'. In any self protection situation you should use surprise e.g a pre-emptive strike be uncoventional ie use dirty techniques and attack vulnerable targets such as the eyes throat and groin in the hope to leave your attacker(s) dazed and confused so that you can disengage and also 'fade away'.

It is important to appear passive and weak to lure your attacker into a false sense of security and if you feel threatened enough and you can later if required JUSTIFY your actions, employ a pre-emptive strike, take down or choke hold. Remember once you have done this RUN and do not hang around to admire your handy work.