No style is “the best”
Most discussions about “the best martial art” are based on an undefined premise.
Without context, the question has no meaning.
Different environments, different constraints, and different objectives produce different outcomes. What works in one situation may fail completely in another.
Self-protection is not a fixed scenario. It is variable, unpredictable, and often constrained by factors outside of technical ability.
These include:
- Environment - space, surface, obstacles
- Number of people involved
- Presence of weapons
- Time and opportunity
- Awareness and decision-making
Because of this, no single style can be considered “the best” in any absolute sense.
At most, a method can be considered effective within a defined context.
Training value depends on whether it matches the realities a person is actually likely to face.
The question is not which style is best.
The question is best for what.