What is the primary purpose of a punch in tactical scenarios?

In tactical scenarios, the primary purpose of a punch is to gain control of a situation. This aligns with the objectives of compliance and control tactics, which focus on managing encounters effectively and safely. A punch can serve as a means to create a temporary advantage or distraction, allowing an officer to subdue a suspect, thereby enabling them to maintain control over the situation without escalating violence unnecessarily.

While inflicting damage might seem relevant in some contexts, the overarching goal in law enforcement is not to cause harm but rather to achieve compliance and ensure safety for all parties involved. Entertainment is unrelated to the serious nature of tactical interactions, and while dissuading further actions may occur as a result of using force, it is more of a secondary effect of achieving control rather than the primary aim. Therefore, the emphasis in tactical training is placed on establishing control to facilitate a resolution to the encounter.