[TouyaHAMEHA]

I came to this thread a little late but I only recently joined, so...forgiveness? ^^;

I don't really think there is a "best" martial art, just really what your own personal preference is and how well you can adapt to it. There is only one rule when it comes to a fight and that is to survive.

I read a few of the more recent posts and see that people give some pretty detailed advice. Personally, I checked out a few schools, contacted a couple, and only a little over a year ago started my martial art (a style of Wing Chun). I wasn't getting the right vibe from the others, nor did they say things I agreed with (on the phone or on their websites).

If the style reflects that of your own beliefs and wishes, you will learn much quicker and will adapt well (granted you have a well instructed Sifu/Sensei/Teacher).