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General overview of grades

This ladder is not yet attributed to a specific organisation. Federations differ in belt colours and time requirements.

Combato is the Canadian military close-quarters combat system created by Bill Underwood during WWII in Toronto for Allied soldiers and operatives. The 5-level hierarchy from Level 1 Basic to Master Instructor evaluates rapid joint locks, knife and firearm disarming, and neutralizing larger opponents with minimal force.

Level 1 – Combato Basic

Typical gap since previous grade: 3 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Basic combat stance, open palm Chin Jab strikes, low kicks, and grab escapes.

Symbolism & Meaning

Canadian military combat system created by Bill Underwood for WWII.

Level 2 – Close Quarter Defendo

Typical gap since previous grade: 9 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Close-range wrist/finger joint locks, takedowns, and knife disarms.

Symbolism & Meaning

Transition from Combato to civilian Defendo system after 1945.

Level 3 – Tactical Threat

Typical gap since previous grade: 18 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Close-range handgun disarms under threat, confined space combat, & escorts.

Symbolism & Meaning

Official modules utilized by law enforcement in Canada and USA.

Level 4 – Certified Instructor

Combato InstructorRank #4

Typical gap since previous grade: 30 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Instructor certification. Teaching Underwood self-defense methodology & accreditation.

Symbolism & Meaning

Official instructor authorized to lead training in Bill Underwood lineage.

Level 5 – Master Instructor (Underwood Lineage)

Underwood MasterRank #5

Typical gap since previous grade: 60 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Highest instructor rank. Global guarantor and developer of Canadian Combato.

Symbolism & Meaning

Underwood Master = Living representative and guardian of Bill Underwood's legacy.