Skip to Content

What Is The Difference Between CQC And CQB? (Military And Police Combat)

What Is The Difference Between CQC And CQB? (Military And Police Combat)

Close Quarters Combat (CQC) and Close Quarters Battle (CQB) are tactical techniques used in military and police force combat situations.

These techniques involve engaging with enemy combatants or criminals at close range, often in confined spaces where traditional tactics may not be effective.

While CQC and CQB share some similarities, there are notable differences in the approach and tactics used in each technique, particularly in the military and police force contexts.

Understanding these differences is important for choosing the most effective combat techniques in different situations and for ensuring the safety of combatants and civilians.

CQC Vs CQB In Military Combat

CQC and CQB are both critical tactics for military combat situations.

While the two tactics share some similarities, there are distinguishable differences between the two approaches and objectives of each technique.

In military combat situations, CQC involves engaging with enemy combatants at very close range, often with hand-to-hand combat techniques.

The objectives of CQC are to quickly neutralize the enemy and to gain control of the situation.

CQC may be used in situations where traditional weapons are not available or may be ineffective, such as in close-quarters situations like inside a building or a vehicle.

Close Quarters Combat
Close Quarters Combat

CQB, on the other hand, involves engaging with enemy combatants at close range, but typically with firearms.

The objectives of CQB are similar to CQC; to neutralize the enemy and to gain control of the situation.

However, in CQB, the use of firearms is the primary tactic for achieving these objectives, as it allows for greater range and firepower.

CQB may be used in situations where CQC is not feasible or where it may be too risky, such as in larger spaces or situations where the enemy seems to have a greater advantage.

There are also differences in the approach and tactics used in CQC and CQB.

In CQC, combatants typically rely on hand-to-hand combat techniques, such as grappling, striking, and joint manipulation.

CQC also places a greater emphasis on agility, speed, and situational awareness. In contrast, CQB typically involves the use of firearms, with a greater emphasis on marksmanship, cover and concealment, and team communication and coordination.

The choice between CQC and CQB in military combat situations depends on a variety of factors, including the situation, the availability of weapons and equipment, the terrain and environment, and the objectives of the mission.

In some situations, CQC may be the most effective tactic, while in others, CQB may be necessary.

In a nutshell, CQC is focused on hand-to-hand combat techniques and may be used in situations where traditional weapons are not available or effective.

CQB, on the other hand, relies on firearms and may be used in situations where greater firepower and range are necessary.

The choice between CQC and CQB depends on a variety of factors, including the situation and the objectives of the mission.

CQC & CQB in military combat

CQC vs CQB In Police Force Combat

Close Quarters Combat (CQC) and Close Quarters Battle (CQB) are also important tactics for police force combat situations.

However, the objectives, approach, and tactics used in CQC and CQB for police force combat differ from those used in military combat.

In police force combat situations, CQC involves close contact with the subject, often with the use of defensive tactics such as joint locks and pressure point control.

The objective of CQC in police force combat is to gain control of the situation and subdue the subject while minimizing the use of force.

CQC may be used in situations where the subject is unarmed or armed with a weapon other than a firearm, such as a knife or blunt object.

CQB, on the other hand, involves the use of firearms in close-range situations. In police force combat, CQB is used to neutralize a subject who poses an imminent threat to officers or civilians.

The objective of CQB is to quickly neutralize the subject while minimizing the risk of harm to others.

Close Quarters Battle
Close Quarters Battle

In terms of approach and tactics, CQC in police force combat relies heavily on defensive tactics and joint manipulation. Officers must also maintain situational awareness and a level of control over the subject at all times.

CQB, on the other hand, involves the use of firearms and requires officers to maintain a high level of accuracy and safety while engaging the subject. Officers must also be trained in cover and concealment, as well as team communication and coordination.

The choice between CQC and CQB in police force combat situations depends on a variety of factors, including the situation, the level of threat imposed by the subject, and the availability of weapons and equipment.

In situations where the subject is unarmed or armed with a non-lethal weapon, CQC may be the most effective tactic. In situations where the subject is armed with a firearm and poses a significant threat, CQB may be necessary.

In a nutshell, CQB involves the use of firearms and is used to neutralize a subject who poses an imminent threat.

The choice between CQC and CQB depends on the situation and the level of threat posed by the subject.

Similarities Between CQC And CQB

While there are significant differences between Close Quarters Combat (CQC) and Close Quarters Battle (CQB) in military and police force combat, there are also some similarities between the two tactics.

ProximityBoth CQC and CQB take place in close quarters, where the distance between the combatants is often less than 10 meters.

In these situations, combatants have limited mobility and they rely on their training and experience to react quickly and effectively.
Speed and AggressionBoth CQC and CQB require speed, aggression, and a high level of situational awareness.

Combatants must be able to think and act quickly to neutralize the threat and protect themselves and others.
Training and ExperienceBoth CQC and CQB require extensive training and experience to master.

Combatants must be trained in a range of skills, including weapon use, hand-to-hand combat, and situational awareness.

They must also have experience in combat situations and the ability to adapt to changing circumstances.
EquipmentBoth CQC and CQB require specialized equipment and weaponry. In military combat, this may include weapons, body armor, and communication devices.

In police force combat, this may include firearms, handcuffs, and non-lethal weapons.
TeamworkBoth CQC and CQB require effective teamwork and communication.

Combatants must be able to work together to neutralize the threat and shield themselves and others.
Key similarities between CQC and CQB

While there are similarities between CQC and CQB, it’s important to note that the objectives, approach, and tactics used in these two tactics differ significantly in military and police combat.

Understanding these differences is crucial for effective combat training and deployment.

FAQs:

What are the five fundamentals of CQB?

There are five set fundamentals of CQB that are taught during military training. They are identified as:

  • gaining control
  • entering a facility
  • creating security
  • spreading into neighboring distances
  • controlling and commanding the team to handle successive events.

Which is more effective, CQC or CQB?

Both tactics are effective in different situations. CQC is effective when the enemy is unarmed or armed with non-lethal weapons, while CQB is effective when the enemy is armed with firearms or other lethal weapons.

What kind of training is required for CQC and CQB?

Both tactics require extensive training and experience to master.

Combatants must be trained in a range of skills, including weapon use, hand-to-hand combat, and situational awareness. They must also have experience in combat situations and the ability to adapt to changing circumstances.

Is CQC or CQB more dangerous for combatants?

Both CQC and CQB are dangerous, and combatants are at risk of injury or death in either situation. Proper training, equipment, and situational awareness can help minimize the risk of harm to combatants.

Are CQC and CQB used in non-combat situations?

CQC and CQB are primarily used in military and police force combat situations.

However, some of the tactics and techniques used in these situations can be adapted for use in non-combat situations, such as self-defense or law enforcement.

Can civilians learn CQC or CQB?

CQC and CQB are specialized tactics used by military and police force combatants.

While some of the techniques used in these situations can be adapted for defense, it is not recommended that civilians attempt to learn or use these tactics without proper training and experience.

Conclusion

  • Close Quarters Combat (CQC) and Close Quarters Battle (CQB) are important tactics for military and police force combat situations, which share some similarities, but also have significant differences.
  • CQC is a hand-to-hand combat technique used in close proximity combat, which focuses on subduing the enemy using joint manipulation, pressure points, and other defensive tactics.
  • It is often used in situations where the enemy is unarmed or armed with non-lethal weapons.
  • CQB, on the other hand, is a technique used in close proximity combat where firearms are used to neutralize an enemy who poses an immediate threat.
  • It is often used in situations where the enemy is armed with firearms or other lethal weapons.
  • While both tactics require a high level of training and situational awareness, they differ in terms of approach, objectives, and tactics.
  • In military combat, CQC is often used to gain control of a building or location, while CQB is used to neutralize enemy combatants.
  • In police force combat, CQC is used to subdue the subject while minimizing the use of force, and CQB is used to neutralize a subject who poses an imminent threat. The choice between CQC and CQB depends on the situation and the level of threat posed by the subject.
  • Understanding the similarities and differences between CQC and CQB is essential for effective combat training and deployment.
  • It is important for combatants to receive proper training and have a high level of situational awareness to ensure that the appropriate tactics are used in each situation to achieve the desired outcome.

Other Articles:

Click here to view the Web Story of this article.

Skip to content