I can go with the idea that it's not the 'cutting edge' of personal combat per se, after all, I would prefer my old Car 15 with all the trim and a few fragmentation grenades......
However, I still think if it were treated more seriously it could be a viable and really still is a viable way of defending yourself and others.
Don't get me wrong, I don't think there is anything wrong with the recreational aspect of it by any means. Unless of course you fool yourself into thinking your the walking embodiment of death itself after getting your purple belt at Sams Happy Hut of MArtial Arts..........