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This variation is generally considered destructive.

 

The initial blocking sequence of Crossing Talon is varied by changing the angle of the primary momentum of the initial maneuver of the technique. To accomplish this variation, the momentum of the initial blocking sequence (#2a) is executed on an arc that favors a downward trajectory over one that favors an upward and inward, then downward trajectory. In other words, compared with the execution of Crossing Talon in Short Form Three, Long Form Three's initial maneuver gives the appearance of a predominantly upward trajectory and ending in a downward trajectory; where Short Form Three's execution gives the appearance of a predominantly downward trajectory with just an initial upward trajectory, in order to get the proper angle and position for the elbow's primarily downward path of execution. Another way to understand the difference is that Short Form Three's execution is the long-range version, while Long Form Three's execution is the short-range version of the same technique / maneuver. This variation typically comes down to an argument of consistency over diversity.

 

Rationale For

The rationale for this variation is that Crossing Talon is in both Short Form Three and Long Form Three and that they should be executed in a similar manner. This will add more consistency to the forms, and also create a tighter cohesion between the two forms.

 

Rationale Against

The rationale against this variation is that the typical standard of American Kenpo forms is to vary (in some way) execution between technique sides and/or multiple versions of execution of the same self-defense technique. And in this case, since the left and right sides of the technique are not varied in Long Form Three, the variation is instead placed between multiple executions of the technique.

 

Next, Crossing Talon is executed toward different initial angles and therefore should be executed appropriately to the varying potential line of attack. In other words, the Short Form Three version of Crossing Talon is done to a potential line of attack from an off-angle (rear) and therefore should be executed using long range maneuvers. In contrast, the Long Form Three version of Crossing Talon is done to a potential line of attack from a direct angle (front) and therefore should be executed using short range maneuvers. Also, executing the same technique in differing ways exposes the practitioner to the information of how a varying line of attack can force a change to the standard execution of a technique.

 

And finally, varying the initial maneuver of the technique helps reinforce the following concept to the practitioner: "self-defense techniques do not start until after the initial defensive maneuver." In other words, the heart of any self-defense technique (i.e. what make it the self-defense technique it is) does not start until the practitioner somehow considers and deals with the initial attack.