July 7–11 | Hobbs, New Mexico
In early July, detention and law enforcement professionals from across the region came together at the Lea County Detention Center in Hobbs, NM, for a transformative week of Level 1–3 M.A.C.H.™ Training. Delivered by the Controlled F.O.R.C.E. Mobile Training Team, this intensive course equipped officers with the tools to operate with confidence, control, and professionalism in high-threat environments.
Covering the full spectrum of Mechanical Advantage Control Holds (M.A.C.H.™), cell extraction techniques, and defensive tactics instructor certification, the training also included a robust train-the-trainer component, empowering attendees to bring these valuable skills back to their agencies and facilities.
🔍 What Is the Controlled F.O.R.C.E. M.A.C.H.™ System?
The Controlled F.O.R.C.E. M.A.C.H.™ System is a nationally recognized, tiered approach to defensive tactics training. Grounded in mechanical advantage and risk reduction, the system allows officers to safely control subjects with minimal reliance on strength, reducing the risk of injury and litigation.
From fundamental subject control to advanced countermeasures, this system provides scalable tactics that are effective in corrections, patrol, transport, and emergency response settings.
✅ Level 1: Arrest and Control Tactics
Objective: Establish control through joint manipulation, leverage, and body mechanics.
Officers began with the five foundational M.A.C.H.™ control holds, designed for both compliant and non-compliant subject control. This module emphasized non-lethal force options and smooth transitions to custody while maintaining officer safety.
Key Skills Learned:
- Escort and transition techniques
- Mechanical Advantage Control Holds (M.A.C.H.™ 1–5)
- Safe and controlled takedowns
- M.A.C.H.™-based handcuffing procedures
- Team arrest tactics
- Baton subject control and compliance maneuvers
- Tactical approach and subject positioning
These tactics form the core of modern law enforcement training, especially in detention environments, where daily encounters can escalate quickly.
✅ Level 2: Officer Survival Tactics
Objective: Enhance close-quarters survival, threat recognition, and combative response.
Building on Level 1, this phase introduced dynamic scenario-based training, replicating the chaotic environments officers face during real-world engagements.
Key Topics Covered:
- Hand-to-hand disruption (strikes, blocks, redirection)
- Defensive baton applications in confined areas
- Edged weapon defense and disarming
- Ground control and escape tactics
- Weapon retention (in and out of holster)
- Firearm and edged weapon disarm techniques
This level of training reinforces officer survivability when seconds matter, providing life-saving options during high-threat, close-contact situations.
✅ Level 3: Countermeasure & Instructor Development Training
Objective: Elevate trainees into instructor roles while mastering counter-techniques and high-risk applications.
The final level prepared officers not only to operate at the highest tactical standard but also to teach and lead others as certified instructors.
Advanced Modules Included:
- Counter-applications of M.A.C.H.™ Levels 1–5
- Advanced M.A.C.H.™ Levels 6–10
- Ambush countermeasure drills
- Counter tie-up defense (escaping grips and holds)
- Unconventional weapon draw scenarios
- Advanced edged weapon and firearm survival drills
Attendees in this phase earned defensive tactics instructor certification, empowering them to return to their departments as train-the-trainer leaders, ready to scale the impact of this program across their teams.
🚨 Cell Extraction Techniques: Control in Confined Environments
One of the most vital parts of the week was focused on cell extraction training, a crucial skillset for correctional professionals. This hands-on module covered the legal, tactical, and procedural aspects of extracting non-compliant inmates from confined spaces safely.
Core Techniques Practiced:
- Pre-entry planning and communication
- Team formation and role assignment
- Cell approach and dynamic entry
- M.A.C.H.™-based takedowns within confined spaces
- Inmate stabilization and transition to restraints
- Post-extraction procedures and medical response
Cell extractions represent one of the highest-risk operations in a correctional setting, and this training gave attendees repeatable, proven methods to execute them with precision and professionalism.
🎯 Real-World Application and Value
This comprehensive week of training wasn’t just about technique—it was about mindset, leadership, and survivability. Whether working in jails, on the street, or in transport, officers returned to their agencies with enhanced tactical skillsets, reduced liability, and increased readiness.
Officers are now equipped to:
- Implement safer arrest and control procedures
- Lead team-based cell extraction operations
- Instruct peers in M.A.C.H.™ tactics with certification
- Improve agency use-of-force protocols
- Increase overall officer and subject safety
📩 Stay Updated on Upcoming Training
If you’re serious about enhancing your tactical abilities or becoming a certified defensive tactics instructor, don’t miss the next opportunity with our Mobile Training Team.
🔹 Explore upcoming training opportunities in your region
🔹 Bring a Mobile Training Team to your facility by contacting us today
Train Smart. Stay Safe. Lead the Way.
From control to countermeasures, we bring the training that makes the difference.
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