FULL FORCE COMBATIVES
Real-world self-defence for real-world violence
Wednesdays ~ 6:45 - 8:00pm
Near Axminster & Honiton, Devon
Adults of all levels welcome ~ no experience necessary
Get in touch to join a class
What is Full-Force Combatives?
Full-Force Combatives is practical, pressure tested self-defence built for worst-case scenarios - sudden, chaotic, real-world violence where there are no rules, no referees, and no second chances.
Training focuses on:
- Full-force striking and destructive counter-attacks
- Counter-weapons defence (knives, firearms & blunt-force threats)
- Functional, instinctive responses that work under stress
- Mindset training to manage fear, adrenaline and the freeze response
- Predatory behaviour recognition — spotting trouble early
- Protecting yourself and others in dangerous, high-risk situations
Whether you’re an absolute beginner or an experienced martial artist, this training is designed to work for real people in real scenarios.
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Why Train With Us?
Steve Tomkins (BA Hons) is a highly experienced Combatives instructor and veteran London firefighter, with decades of frontline exposure to real danger and high-stakes decision-making. He qualified under Lee Morrison of Urban Combatives in 2008 as a first-generation UC Instructor - one of the most respected lineages in the field. He is a recognised instructor with the British Combat Association and has taught internationally alongside Kelly McCann, a former US Special Operations & Navy SEALs trainer.
Steve holds senior grades in various martial arts and has trained directly under some of the most respected names in the world: Geoff Thompson, Dennis Martin, Peter Consterdine, Dave Turton, Richard Dimitri, Paul Finn (Silat, Kali, JKD), Stuart Rider, and Sensei Steve Arneil of Kyokushinkai Karate.
Beyond the mat, Steve brings over 40 years as a qualified first-aider, Mental Health First Aid training through the Red Cross, and a Metropolitan Police Trident Gang Crime Command Commendation. He is DBS checked, fully insured, and an active member of the British Combat association. Steve’s teaching style is calm, direct and highly effective — focused on safety, realism, and rapid skill development.
Who Is the Class For?
The Wednesday class is open to anyone. Complete beginners are just as welcome as seasoned martial artists. If you work in a conflict facing role - security, door staff, prison service, or frontline healthcare - or simply want to feel safer and more prepared, this class is built for you. Steve has taught civilians, women's self-defence groups, police officers, Krav Maga instructors, anti-piracy operatives (ex-military), and students with special needs. Our Wednesday session is welcoming, supportive, high-energy and fun.
Private Training Available
If you prefer one-to-one coaching, need discreet training, or want to accelerate your progress, private lessons are available. These work particularly well for nervous beginners, professionals with specific requirements and anyone with particular concerns around size, age, mobility, confidence - anywhere that focused skill development beyond the group class is the goal.
Safety, Conduct & Professional Standards
All training is delivered in a friendly, no-nonsense environment by a DBS-checked BCA recognised instructor British Combat Association with full insurance, over four decades of first-aid experience, and formal mental health awareness training. Your safety and confidence always come first.
Connect With Us
Follow our training clips, drills, and updates:
Facebook: Axminster Combatives & self-defence
YouTube: Full-Force Combatives Youtube channel
YouTube: Full-Force Combatives Youtube channel
Ready to Begin?
Train smart. Train real. Train to protect yourself and those you care about.
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Technique Example – Explosive Counter to a Grab
Below: a direct, powerful response to a common grab. The defender traps the assailant’s hand, drives forward with an explosive tiger’s claw strike, and follows up if necessary. Simple, instinctive, and brutally effective under pressure.
