Best Martial Art for self-defense?

[SuperSize]

What is the best martial art for self-defense or street fighting? Right now, I am taking hapkido and I'm wondering if it will actually help me in a fight because when we practice, we do it slowly and we anticipate the attack so it's not like a real fight. Any suggestions, comments?

[jb357]

I choose the martial art of smith&wesson and a carry permit.

[Pegasus]

If you want contact training ,there are any number of things you could add to your training from boxing ,judo,mma etc.

[cesco]

Krav Maga very practical self-defense.

Youtube it for some demonstrations.

[Batwoman]

Not Tae Kwon Do. I do it and love it, and you can seriously hurt someone with it, but if they get inside on you it would all be over. I think you need something with grappling and falls. Judo, Jui-jitsu, mma.

[NP97]

Above is totally correct. Although, in doing Tae Kwon Do I was always good when someone got in close. Of course, a kick in the balls or a head-butt in the nose is always great...

[SuperSize]

I have done TKD and I don't like how it is very "water-down" where I live. In my opinion, unfortunately it has become too much of a sport and therefore unless you find good trainers you aren't going to get very far.

I have been thinking about JuJitsu since that takes care of ground fighting and most fights end up on the ground. I've been taking judo and it is very fun I must say but my school doesn't focus on judo.

What about Muay Thai? Any other arts?

[Batwoman]

unless you find good trainers you aren't going to get very far.

That's true of all martial arts. The Master makes a HUGE difference -- if you are not sure what discipline you're looking for, then find a great Master and learn whatever discipline he teaches.

[Rock-on]

TDK, Judo and Jui-jitsu takes many years before you are skilled enough to use it on the street...

My suggestion is to take a look at Thai boxing, kick boxing or mma maybe muai tahi, but that takes time to master.
If your are dedicated to learn you can learn the basic fast (1 year).

i have been practiced Thai boxing and now i do Boxing..

[Pegasus]

That's true of all martial arts. The Master makes a HUGE difference -- if you are not sure what discipline you're looking for, then find a great Master and learn whatever discipline he teaches.

Oh verily thou art wise.