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Liechtenhauers

Longsword Fighting
A Ten Week Course of Study
by Perry W. Rogers
Revised:

January 20, 2012

Table of Contents
1. History & Basics!
2. Strikes, Cuts & Thrusts!
3. Master Strikes, Pt 1!
4. Master Strikes Pt 2!
5. Master Strikes, Pt 3!
6. Master Strikes, Part 4!
7. Four Displacements: Versatzungen!
8. Fight Tactics!
9. Advanced Techniques 1!
10. Advanced Techniques 2!
Appendix A: Ringecks Commentaries!
Appendix B: Class Structure!
Appendix C: Class Drills & Games!
Appendix D: German Martial Glossary!
Appendix E: Assorted Resources!

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1. History & Basics

A historical introduction to Liechtenhauer and German longsword fighting traditions. Work through
the Veir Leger.

A. Historical Origins
Source Material

The teachings of Master Johannes Liechtenhauer, mid 14th century, as


written down by Sigmund Ringeck, a fencing master to the Duke of
Bavaria in the early part of the 15th century
The Goliath Fechtbuch c.1500, whose verse is strikingly similar to Peter von Danzigs of 1452.
Hanko Dobringer Fechtbuch from 1389
Hans Talhoffer 1467 Fechtbuch
We have roughly two dozen surviving manuscripts attributed to the
teachings of Liechtenhauer, but none are in his hand that we know of.
It is a complete system that is based on the mechanics introduced in
the longsword teachings including: Dagger fighting, Wrestling, and Armored Combat on foot and on horseback
References to the Liechtenhauer works continue to show up in manuscripts all the way to the 17th century works of Jacob Sutor.

Current Interpretations

Safety & Intent Reminder


1. SAFETY: number ONE concern.
Everyone should keep the safety of
everyone else in mind at all times. Do
not break your training partners. Do
not take wide-open, or cheap shots.
2. INTENT: move, act and strike with
appropriate, realistic force and motion.
Keep range in mind. Avoid exaggerated motions. Partners must be fully
cooperative or resistant when learning
techniques.
3. TARGETING: Use precise targeting
and be mindful of edge placement and
control. Do not lose sight of the
wounds that would be caused to unarmored opponents by sharp swords.

The original Ringeck commentaries were in an archaic German language (Swaibian), and was presented in mnemonic verses called
merkverse
Christian Tobler: Secrets of Medieval German Swordsmanship & Fighting with the German Longsword
Ochs Video: Liechtenhauers Longsword, Part 1
David Lindholm: Sigmund Ringecks Knightly art of the Longsword

B. Veir Leger (Four Primary Guards)


Demonstrate the four guards. Explain the origins of their names, and their potential uses.

The Four Guards

There are only four basic positions which are useful in combat, this are Ochs, Alber, Pflug,
and vom Tag.
The first guard: Ochs (the Ox) / Stand with your left foot forward, hold your sword at the
right side of your head, your point directed at his face.
The second guard: Pflug (the Plough) / Stand with the left foot forward and hold your
sword at your right side above your knee,with your hands crossed, your point directed at
his face.
The third guard: Alber (the Fool) / Stand with your right foot forward and hold your sword
in front of you with your arms extended, your point directed at the ground.
The fourth guard: vom Tag ("From the Roof") / Stand with your left foot forward and hold
your sword at the side of your right shoulder or above your head with your arms extended.
And in this book, youll find written down how to fence from these guards.

Discuss the traditional use of the term Guards as opposed to positions.


Stances generally refers to foot placement and weight distribution.
Any position in which you can stand, or move with the sword has a corresponding position name.
Lines of attack and defense are opened and closed based on which guard is adopted.

C. Footwork

Basic foot placement in the stances


Center of balance and body stance

Footwork

Note: This is the first tenet of the long sword: learn to strike blows equally well from both
sides if you want to learn to fence well. Note: If you want to strike from the (your) right
side, make sure, your left foot is forward (at the beginning); if you want to strike from the
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left side, the right foot must be forward. If you strike an Oberhau from the right side then,
follow the blow with your right foot. If you do not the blow is wrong and ineffective, because your right side stays behind. Because of this the blow will fall short and cannot
travel in its proper arc towards the left side. If you strike from the left side
and you do not follow the blow, it too is wrong. That is why no matter from Stepping is not just a matter
which side you are striking follow the blow with the same foot. So you will of improving power, but range,
and edge placement as well.
succeed in all techniques. This is how you shall strike all blows.

Types of Stepping

Gathering or Lunging is generally done on the tightrope (i.e. on line forward or backward), and is used merely
to change the range between you and your opponent. This step does not tend to
Strikes should be timed
alter your defensive profile. Skeletal power is generated by the leading foot.
so that impact power is
Passing can be done on or off line. Your defensive profile changes with each step.
maximized by foot /
Skeletal power is generated with each step.
Exchanging your feet is done in place. Exchanging is used to alter the feet position, hip / shoulder motion
and alignment.
and generate skeletal power with the sword. Generally, the front foot is brought
backward, and placed next to the rear foot, which is then moved forward and/or
outward. Skeletal power is generated when the second foot lands.
Compass Stepping is used to move drastically off line. It is a passing step in which the rear foot first passes
forward and outward. The second foot then follows off line, and swings outward before it lands. The swinging motion of the second foot generates a lot of skeletal power as it lands.

D. Drill
Explain the purpose of Drilling (See Appendix B: Class Structure)

Vier Leger Drill


Right Vom Tag -- Left Phlug -- Right Ochs -- Left Alber -- Right Langort -- pivot -- Left Vom Tag -- Right Phlug -Left Ochs -- Right Alber -- Left Langort - pivot

E. Play Time
Explain the purpose of Play Time (See Appendix B: Class Structure)

Roman Focus Game


Using good hand protection, partners attempt to slap each others hands with the boffer dagger. Only the hands
are valid targets. Both hands must stay in front of your body at all times. Free advice: keep moving!

F. Open Sparring

Explain the purpose of Open Sparring (See Appendix B: Class


Structure)
BE SAFE! Review Safety & Intent Reminder from the Beginning of class

Recommended Minimum Sparring Gear

Modified shanai longsword


Three Weapons Fencing Mask / Helm
Padded gloves / gauntlets
Neck protection / gorget
Cup

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2. Strikes, Cuts & Thrusts


Nebenhut, Targeting, Edge Control & Ansetzen

A. Review Key Concepts from Previous Sessions

Safety & Intent Reminder

Vier Leger Drill

1. SAFETY: number ONE concern.


Everyone should keep the safety of
everyone else in mind at all times. Do
not break your training partners. Do
not take wide-open, or cheap shots.

B. Strikes, Thrusts & Cuts

Oberhau & Unterhau


Releasing forward hand for extra thrust distance
Pull & push cutting

Body Mechanics

2. INTENT: move, act and strike with


appropriate, realistic force and motion.
Keep range in mind. Avoid exaggerFootwork
Note: This is the first tenet of the long sword: learn to strike blows ated motions. Partners must be fully
equally well from both sides if you want to learn to fence well. cooperative or resistant when learning
Note: If you want to strike from the (your) right side, make sure, techniques.

Footwork for range change and increased power

your left foot is forward (at the beginning); if you want to strike from 3. TARGETING: Use precise targeting
the left side, the right foot must be forward. If you strike an Ober- and be mindful of edge placement and
hau from the right side then, follow the blow with your right foot. If control. Do not lose sight of the
you do not the blow is wrong and ineffective, because your right wounds that would be caused to unside stays behind. Because of this the blow will fall short and can- armored opponents by sharp swords.
not travel in its proper arc towards the left side. If you strike from
the left side and you do not follow the blow, it too is wrong. That is
why no matter from which side you are striking follow the blow with the same foot. So you
will succeed in all techniques. This is how you shall strike all blows.

Skeletal alignment with arms, hips & shoulders

Keep tip on line and threatening the face of the opponent.

Ansetzen: The Hanger Point

The dangers of powerful strokes and following through too far


Sword tip is in position for immediate thrust
This is unarmored combat.

Edge Control

Swords do not cut with the flat.


With any thrust, cut or strike, you want the tip or edge to be perpendicular to
the impact target to ease the breaking of the skin, and the entry into the flesh.

C. Striking Pattern Drill

Move your
feet, control
your edge,
Watch your
tip

First set starts in Right Vom tag: UpR, LowL, LowR, UpL
Second set starts in Right Nebenhut: LowR, UpL, UpR, LowL
Third set starts in Left Vom tag: UpL, LowR, LowL, Upr
Fourth set starts in Left Nebenhut: LowL, UpR, UpL, LowR

D. Play Time

Baton Striking with Edge Control Game (from Ochs: Longsword DVD)
One partner wears a mask and protective gloves. He grips a baton in both hands so that there is at least 8 of
space between them. As he circles and moves, he will present the baton in front, or beside himself representing
target openings. The other partner strikes the baton with an appropriate strike, cut, or Master Strike. Careful attention should be paid to range, staying in an appropriate guard, striking power, and edge placement.
Thrust Targeting Game (from Ochs: Longsword DVD)
This game is just like the Baton Striking game, but uses thrusting target as the focus.

E. Open Sparring

Explain the purpose of Open Sparring (See Appendix B: Class


Structure)
Review Safety & Intent Reminder from the Beginning of class
Work on hanger point, and edge control

Recommended Minimum Sparring Gear

Modified shanai longsword


Three Weapons Fencing Mask / Helm
Padded gloves / gauntlets
Neck protection / gorget
Cup

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3. Master Strikes, Pt 1

The Zornhau Plays including Abnemen, Mutieren, Duplieren, and basic Winden.

A. Review Key Concepts from Previous Sessions

Vier Leger Drill


Stepping & Striking
Striking Pattern Drill

B. Introduce New Material


Introduction to Master Strikes

Special ways of swinging the sword to alter the initiative in a fight.


More of a set of tactical techniques than anything.
You must have good fundamental skills in footwork, ansetzen and
edge control to make these work.

Historical Source & Background


The Strike of Wrath and the Winding

Note: When your adversary strikes at you


from his right side with a strike from above Intercept his blow
(Oberhau), then hit with a strike of wrath near to you & far
from your right shoulder against it. Strike from him.
with your true edge and in your strong.
When he is weak at the sword then, thrust
into his face along his blade.

Safety & Intent Reminder


1. SAFETY: number ONE concern.
Everyone should keep the safety of
everyone else in mind at all times. Do
not break your training partners. Do
not take wide-open, or cheap shots.
2. INTENT: move, act and strike with
appropriate, realistic force and motion.
Keep range in mind. Avoid exaggerated motions. Partners must be fully
cooperative or resistant when learning
techniques.
3. TARGETING: Use precise targeting
and be mindful of edge placement and
control. Do not lose sight of the
wounds that would be caused to unarmored opponents by sharp swords.

When you thrust against his face from the strike of wrath and he notices this and
displaces the thrust with strength, pull your sword upwards, away from his. And Step left as you
then strike to the head from the other side, also along his blade. When you strike a take off: Abnemen
strike of wrath and he displaces it and remains strong at the sword, hold strongly
against it. With the strong of your sword, slide up to the weak (schwech) of his blade,
wind the hilt in front of your head while remaining on the sword (am schwert) and thrust
into his face from above.

When you thrust from the Winding as described and he displaces the thrust Step into the wind & thrust
by lifting up his arms and his hilt, stay in the Winding and take the Ort (point
or thrust) down between his arms and breast.

Note: When you engage at the sword ("binden") with strength and If he takes-off, turn the long edge
your adversary pulls his sword upwards and strikes at your head outward & push hard into the flat
from the other side, then bind strongly with the true edge and strike of his blade as he comes back down.
him on the head.
You must notice immediately, if someone is weak or strong at the sword if he binds at
your sword with a strike or a thrust. If you have noticed that, you shall know simultaneously, if it is better to fight him in the "before" (Nach) or the "after" (Vor). But dont engage
rashly in close-combat (Krieg), this is nothing else than Winding (Winden) at the sword.

The techniques
presented
here are
covered in
depth in a
later
class.

In close-combat you should do the following: if you strike him with the strike of Wrath and
he displaces it, lift up your arms and, at the sword, wind the point to the upper opening.
When he displaces (Versetzen) the thrust, stay in the winding and thrust to the lower
opening. If he follows your sword in the displacement (Versatzung), lead your point
through under his sword (disengage under "durchfhren") and thrust to the other opening
on his right side. This is how you can defeat him in close-combat.

Mutieren and Duplieren against the four openings:


These are the four openings you should aim at in combat. The first opening is the right Tactical Advice
side, the second opening is the left side above the belt. The other openings are the
right and left side below the belt. Already pay attention to the openings when you are
closing in, aim at the ones he (your adversary) exposes.
Thrust with the "long point" (Langer Ort), use the "traveling after" (Nachreissen) and all
other opportunities. Dont pay attention to what hes up to, fence securely and youll hit so
outstandingly, that hell not be able to get through with his own techniques.
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If you want to break one of the four openings by force, then "Dupliere" at the upper opening, against the Starke (strong) of his sword, and then "Mutiere" to another opening.
Against this, he cannot defend himself and he will not be able to either strike or thrust.
Duplieren: When you strike a strike of wrath (Zornhau) or any other Doubling is done from farther out, but
Oberhau and he displaces it with strength, with the left hand, im- you must step off-line toward your
mediately thrust the pommel of your sword under your right arm. opponents pommel as you do this.
With crossed hands, behind his blade and in between the blade
and his body, strike him diagonally through the face. Or strike him
on the head.
Mutieren: If you bind against his sword, with an Oberhau or otherwise, wind the short edge at his sword, raise your arms and
thrust at the lower opening from the outside along his blade. You
can use that from both sides.

Done from close in, again stepping toward his pommel. Think of this as
gathering his blade. This one requires
DEEP stepping,and wide motiions.

Notes on Zornhau Plays & Their Organization

There is a lot going on here.


These have a random / illogical feel to their order.
There are plays, counters & counter-counters going on here to introduce the sense that a fight has a flow to it.
This Master Strike is only launched from Vom Tag. You could come from another position, but you would
pass through Vom Tag on your way.

C. Drills

Striking Pattern Drill


Vier Leger

Winden Drill: Clockwise & Counter-Clockwise (from Ochs: Longsword DVD)


Work large circles moving through the eight windings clockwise and counter-clockwise. Keep pressure on the
blades, and maneuver toward a position from which a good thrust could be executed.

D. Play Time

Baton Striking with Edge Control & Thrust Targeting Games from Ochs: Longsword DVD

E. Focused Sparring to Improve Timing Followed by Open Sparring

Safety & Intent Review


Explain Focused Sparring concept, and
details for its application. (See Appendix B)
Work on various Zornhau plays.
Actively engage in binding swords.

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4. Master Strikes Pt 2
The Krumphau Plays and the Schrankhut Guard

A. Review Key Concepts from Previous Sessions

Zornhau, Strike of Wrath


Abnemen, Taking off
Winden, Duplieren & Mutieren

B. Introduce New Material


A New Guard- The Schrankhut

The barrier guard


Thumb Grip on both sides
Blade flat against opponent
From Goilath: Of the Barrier Guard: Put yourself thus in the barrier
guard to your left side: when you come to him with it in the prefencing, then stand with the right foot forward and hold your sword
near your left side to the ground with crossed hands, so the short
edge is above, and give an opening with your right side, if he
Strikes to your opening, then burst out of the strike toward him
with the left foot well to his right side. . . .

Historical Source & Background


The Krumphau:

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4

Safety & Intent Reminder


1. SAFETY: number ONE concern.
Everyone should keep the safety of
everyone else in mind at all times. Do
not break your training partners. Do
not take wide-open, or cheap shots.
2. INTENT: move, act and strike with
appropriate, realistic force and motion.
Keep range in mind. Avoid exaggerated motions. Partners must be fully
cooperative or resistant when learning
techniques.
3. TARGETING: Use precise targeting
and be mindful of edge placement and
control. Do not lose sight of the
wounds that would be caused to unarmored opponents by sharp swords.

This is how you should strike the Krumphau at the hands. When
he attacks you from his right side with an Oberhau or Unterhau, Use a deep, fast step, strike with the
jump out of the strike with your right foot towards his left side very tip of the sword to ensure the
and with crossed hands strike against his hands using the proper range.
point.
This is how you can Absetzen ("set aside") the cuts from above with the
Krumphau: If he attacks you from his right side with an Oberhau, step to- You need to get under his
wards his left side with your right foot and put your point in the Schrankhut. sword for this one. Strike
Practice this from both sides. From the setting aside you can strike him on with the short edge.
the head.
If you want to weaken a master, then while he strikes an Beat his sword aside by striking it on the flat
Oberhau from his right side strike a Krumphau with with the thumb grip as you enter Schrankhut.
crossed hands against his sword. When you strike him with
the Krumphau against his sword, from the sword immediately strike up- Use short edge at close range. If
wards against his head with the short edge. Or after the Krumphau wind farther out: wind and thrust.
the short edge at his sword and thrust him into the breast.

When he strikes an Oberhau from his right shoulder, pretend as if you


are going to bind against his sword with a Krumphau. But let your strike One fluid motion, range is critifall short, lead your point through under his sword and wind your hilt cal, step in with the trust
over your head and to your right side. Then thrust him in the face.

This is how you can break the Krumphau: If you attack him from your right side
with an Oberhau and he displaces this with a Krumphau with crossed hands You must be in a very
from his right side, then strongly hold your sword against his. And "shoot" strong position for
this. A step in as well.
(thrust) the point at his breast with your arms extended.

Another defense against the Krumphau: If you attack him from your right side with an
Oberhau and he displaces (Versatzung) this with a Krumphau with crossed hands from his
right side and if he pushes your sword to the ground, then wind towards your right side,
raise your arms over your head and thrust at his breast from above. If he displaces that,
stand as you are, with the hilt in front of your head and nimbly work with the point from
one opening to the other. This is called the "noble war" and with this youll confuse him
so much , that he will not know how to defend himself against your attacks.

Winden

Notes on Krumphau Plays

To use many of these plays, you must step far and fast.
You must have quick hands.
In Schrankhut, you feel like a coiled spring.
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C. Drills
Vier Leger Drill
Right Vom Tag -- Left Phlug -- Right Ochs -- Left Alber -- Right Langort -- pivot -- Left Vom Tag -- Right Phlug -Left Ochs -- Right Alber -- Left Langort - pivot

Master Strikes Drills

Step through Krumphau Master Strike from right & left sides using ALL guard positions

D. Play Time

Baton Striking with Krumphau


Winden Game from Ochs: Longsword DVD

E. Focused Sparring to Improve


Timing, Followed by Open Sparring

Work on various Krumphau


plays and counter plays

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5. Master Strikes, Pt 3
The Zwerchau Plays and various types of Feints

A. Review Key Concepts from Previous Sessions

Zornhau, Strike of Wrath


Winden, Duplieren & Mutieren
Krumphau to the hands
Krumphau to the blade

B. Introduce New Material


Historical Source & Background
The Zwerchhau

Safety & Intent Reminder


1. SAFETY: number ONE concern.
Everyone should keep the safety of
everyone else in mind at all times. Do
not break your training partners. Do
not take wide-open, or cheap shots.
2. INTENT: move, act and strike with
appropriate, realistic force and motion.
Keep range in mind. Avoid exaggerated motions. Partners must be fully
cooperative or resistant when learning
techniques.

The Zwerchhau counters (literally "breaks") all downward strikes


made from above. Do it like this: If he strikes an Oberhau at your
head, "jump" (make a large, explosive step) to his left side with your
right foot, while you jump, turn your sword, so that your hilt is high
in front of your head and your thumb is down (on the flat of the 3. TARGETING: Use precise targeting
blade) and strike at his left side with your short edge. So you catch and be mindful of edge placement and
his strike with your hilt and hit him simultaneously on the head.
control. Do not lose sight of the
This is how you can work with the stark (strong) from the Zwerch: If wounds that would be caused to unyou strike with the Zwerch, pay attention to strike strongly with the armored opponents by sharp swords.
strong of your sword against his blade. If he
strongly holds against it, strike him -at the If he binds with
sword- on the head behind his blade with your his long edge,
then double
hands crossed. Or cut him trough the face.

When you bind at his sword with the strong of your sword with the Zwerch
and he strongly holds against it, push down his sword to your right side Push his sword backward and
with your hilt. And immediately strike again with the Zwerch to the right side downward with your hilt.
of his head.

If you bind against his sword with the Zwerch and he is "soft" at Push cut as you step in, break his balthe sword, place the short edge at the right side of his neck, jump ance with your elbow, body and knee,
behind his left foot with your right foot and tear him over with the his left foot must be forward.
sword.

If you bind against his sword with the Zwerch and he is "soft" at the
sword, push his sword down with the Zwerch and lay the short This is similar to Step #4 above, but
you need to force his sword down
edge at his throat.

A defense against the upper Zwerch:

When you bind at his sword with an Oberhau or Step to the left, your hilt will be near your face, and
another strike from your right side and he strikes being under his sword will protect you. If you are farwith the Zwerch at your other (left) side, forestall ther away, step back out of his range, and hit his arms.
this with a Zwerch to his neck under his sword.
This is how you can strike to the four openings with the Zwerch: When you close in Keep your hilt up
with your adversary with the "Zufechten", at the right moment, jump towards him high when striking to
and strike with the Zwerch to the lower opening of his left side. This is called "strik- the lower openings.
ing towards the plow" ("zum Pflug schlagen").
When you have attacked the lower opening with the Zwerch, immediately strike another
Zwerch to the other side, at his head. This is called "striking towards the ox" ("zum
Ochsen schlagen"). And then strike swiftly alternating the Zwerch towards the plow and
the ox, crosswise from one side to the other. Then you can disengage from him with an
Oberhau to the head.
When you strike the Zwerch, you shall always jump to his flank, namely towards the side
on which you want to hit him. So you can hit his head. And pay attention that you cover Tactical Advice
the front of your head with the hilt while jumping.

Instructor Demonstration & Explanation Followed by Whole Class Step Through

Follow Ringecks Tactical advice in the final paragraph, except that a more straight ahead step may be required when more distance must be covered.
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C. Drills
Intermediate Guards Drill
Vom Tag - Kumphau -> Schrankhut - Unterhau -> Ochs - Zwerchau -> Phlug - Stich -> Kron - Oberhau -> Nebenhut - Zornhau -> Alber - short edge Unterhau -> pivot (Repeat on opposite side)

Master Strikes Drills

Step through Zwerchau Master Strike from right & left sides using ALL guard positions
Work side-to-side Zwerchau striking

D. Play Time

Baton Striking with Krumphau and Zwerchau

E. Focused Sparring to Improve Timing, Followed by Open Sparring

Work on various Zwerchau plays and counter plays

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6. Master Strikes, Part 4


The Schielhau & Scheitelhau Plays

A. Review Key Concepts from Previous Sessions

Zornhau, Shooting the thrust


Winden, Duplieren & Mutieren
Krumphau
Zwerchau
Intermediate Guards Drill

B. Introduce New Material

Safety & Intent Reminder


1. SAFETY: number ONE concern.
Everyone should keep the safety of
everyone else in mind at all times. Do
not break your training partners. Do
not take wide-open, or cheap shots.

2. INTENT: move, act and strike with


appropriate, realistic force and motion.
Keep range in mind. Avoid exaggerThe Squinter is a strike which primarily "breaks" the strikes and ated motions. Partners must be fully
cooperative or resistant when learning
thrusts of those fencers, who rely only on
Block
&
strike
are
techniques.
their strength. Do it like this: If he attacks you

Historical Source & Background


The "Squinter":

from his right side, strike from your right side simultaneous.
with the short edge and extended arms Turn your body to
against the weak of his sword and hit him on adopt the Squintthe right shoulder. If he changes through, ing position.
thrust him into his breast with your arms extended. You should strike like this, too, if he faces you in the guard
of the plough or if wants to thrust you from below.

3. TARGETING: Use precise targeting


and be mindful of edge placement and
control. Do not lose sight of the
wounds that would be caused to unarmored opponents by sharp swords.

Note: You should always deceive him with your line of vision. Pay attention, if he Tactical Advice
fights short (feints).

You will know this when he does not extend his arms when striking. You should strike
then, too, move your point through under his sword and thrust him into the face.
Note: The Squinter breaks the "long point" and this is done as follows:

When he faces you and points his point against your breast or face with extended arms, place your left foot forward and look at his point. Feint a strike Your feint must
against his point, strike strongly against his sword with the short edge and look like it is going
"shoot" (thrust) , with a forward step with the right foot, your point against his to be powerful
throat, with your arms extended.
When he strikes an Oberhau, look at his head, as if you intend to strike him there.
But then strike against his blow with the short edge and then strike at the hands Step to stay out of
range of his weapon.
with your point, along his blade.

The "Parting Strike"

Note: the parting strike is aimed at the face or breast. Do it like this: If he is in the Step to stay out of
guard Alber, strike vertically downward with the long edge. And while striking, range of his weapon.
keep your arms up high and move your point to his face.

If you move the point at his face from above with the parting strike and he displaces Step in to get
the point with the (his) hilt up, turn your sword, lift the (your) hilt high above your enough height
head and thrust him down into the breast.
When you strike a parting strike and he displaces with the hilt high above his head,
then this displacement is called "the crown". From there you can rush in.
If he breaks the parting strike or any other Oberhau with the crown and tries to rush in, cut
him in the Arm under his hands and push upward, so that the crown is broken. Then turn
your sword from the low cut into a high one and free yourself in this way.

Instructor Demonstration & Explanation Followed by Whole Class Step Through

C. Drills
Master Strikes Drills

Step through Schielhau & Scheitelhau Master Strikes from right & left sides using ALL guard positions

Page 12

Intermediate Guards Drill


Vom Tag - Kumphau -> Schrankhut - Unterhau -> Ochs - Zwerchau -> Phlug - Stich -> Kron - Oberhau -> Nebenhut - Zornhau -> Alber - short edge Unterhau -> pivot (Repeat on opposite side)

D. Play Time

Counters to oberhau and unterhau using Zornhau, Krumphau, Zwerchau, Schielhau & Scheitelhau plays

E. Focused Sparring to Improve Timing, Followed by Open Sparring

Work on various Schielhau & Scheitelhau plays, counter plays

Page 13

7. Four Displacements: Versatzungen


Guard Breaking Drills & Applications

A. Review Key Concepts from Previous Sessions

Five Master Strikes


Winden, Duplieren, Mutieren
Intermediate Guards Drill

B. Introduce New Material


Historical Source & Background

Safety & Intent Reminder


1. SAFETY: number ONE concern.
Everyone should keep the safety of
everyone else in mind at all times. Do
not break your training partners. Do
not take wide-open, or cheap shots.

7. The Four Displacements (Versatzungen)

2. INTENT: move, act and strike with


You have heard previously, that you shall fight only from four appropriate, realistic force and motion.
guards. Now, you shall get to know the four displacements, which Keep range in mind. Avoid exaggerated motions. Partners must be fully
are four strikes.
cooperative or resistant when learning
The first strike is the "crooked strike" (Krumphau). It counters (liter- techniques.

ally "breaks") the guard (Hut) ochs.

3. TARGETING: Use precise targeting

The second strike is the Zwerchhau. It counters the guard Vom Tag. and be mindful of edge placement and
The third strike is the "squinter" (Schielhau). It counters the guard control. Do not lose sight of the
wounds that would be caused to unPflug.
The fourth strike is the parting strike (Scheitelhau). It counters the
guard Alber.

armored opponents by sharp swords.

And beware of all displacements used by bad fencers. Note: Strike, when he strikes,
thrust, when he thrusts. And in this chapter and in the chapter on the five strikes you Tactical Advice
shall find written down how you shall strike and thrust.

A Technique against a Displacement:

If a strike of yours has been displaced, note: if an Oberhau of yours Stepping in to your left as you wind
is displaced, stay in the bind, move your pommel over his forward your pommel around his sword.
hand and tear it down; and strike him on the head simultaneously.

A Second Technique against a Displacement:

If you strike an Unterhau from the right side and he falls on your sword (i.e., Both of these are after
he pushes it downwards), so that you cannot lift it up, move the pommel over your sword has been driven
his sword and, with a snapping motion, strike him on the head with the long down following a strike
edge. Or, if he falls on your sword on your left side, strike him with the short
edge (Kurze Schneide).

A Third Technique against a Displacement:


If you strike an Oberhau from the right and if you want to end the fight, then
note: when he displaces, immediately strike around (i.e., to the other side) Release your left hand and
with the Zwerchhau. Grab the blade of you sword with the left hand and move toward the halfsword as you zwerch.
thrust into his face. Or attack one of the other openings you can reach best.

A Fourth Technique against a Displacement:


If you thrust at his face at the Halb Schwert (half-sword) and he displaces this, immediately strike him on the other side of the head with Footwork and range are the keys
the pommel. Or jump with the right foot behind his left foot, move your to this play. You really dont
pommel around his neck from the right shoulder (i.e., his right side) need to move more than your feet.
and tear him down over your right leg.

From Goliath:
That is you should not displace as the common fencer does. When they displace then they hold their point high or to one side, so understand that they do
not know how to use the point in the displacement to seek onward and are often hit. Thus when you would displace, then displace with your strike or with
your stab and Immediately search for the next opening with the point, thus you
will not be mastered and struck to your damage.

Tactical Advice on using


the hanger point for all
blocking to defeat a foe
who does not.

Page 14

C. Drills
Intermediate Guards Drill
Vom Tag - Kumphau -> Schrankhut - Unterhau -> Ochs - Zwerchau -> Phlug - Stich -> Kron - Oberhau -> Nebenhut - Zornhau -> Alber - short edge Unterhau -> pivot (Repeat on opposite side)
Guard Breaking Drill (from Ochs: Longsword DVD)
One partner adopts each of the Primary Guard positions, and the other partner responds with the appropriate
Master Strike. Partners alternate this role for each stroke.

D. Play Time
Push Me, Pull You (from Schola St. George)
Each partner grips a sword handle in his right hand. He then grips his partners sword blade about 8 from the tip
in his left hand. The players are now connected by two swords. The goal is to push and pull on one, or both of
the swords in an attempt to get the other player off balance. This game may be played with stationary feet, or
with both partners moving and circling.

E. Focused Sparring to Improve Timing, Followed by Open Sparring

Page 15

8. Fight Tactics

Using Initiative Theory, Sprechfenster & Feints

A. Review Key Concepts from Previous Sessions


Five Master Strikes
Intermediate Guards Drill
Versetzen at quick speed

B. Introduce New Material


Historical Source & Background
Tactical Basics

Safety & Intent Reminder


1. SAFETY: number ONE concern.
Everyone should keep the safety of
everyone else in mind at all times. Do
not break your training partners. Do
not take wide-open, or cheap shots.

2. INTENT: move, act and strike with


When you are closing to an opponent, do not watch his blows and appropriate, realistic force and motion.
do not wait for what he might use against you. Because all fencers, Keep range in mind. Avoid exaggerated motions. Partners must be fully
who just wait for their opponents blows and do
cooperative or resistant when learning
not do anything else than warding them off, do Tactical Advice
techniques.
not succeed very often. They are defeated very

often.

Note: Always fence using all of your strength! When you're close,
strike at his head and at his body, so he may not be able to change
through (Durchwechseln) in front of your
point. After the blow, from the bind, strike Use light blows to
light blows at his next opening, as is de- probe for an opening.
scribed in the section about different blows
and other techniques.

3. TARGETING: Use precise targeting


and be mindful of edge placement and
control. Do not lose sight of the
wounds that would be caused to unarmored opponents by sharp swords.

Note: This tenet is addressed to left-handers and right-handers. If you are a right-handed
fencer and you are closing to an opponent and you think you can hit him, do not strike the
first blow from the (your) left side. Because you are weak there and you cannot resist, if he
binds strongly against your blade. Because of this, strike from the right side, you can work
strongly "Am Schwert" ("on the sword") and you can use all techniques you like. So, if you
are left-handed, do not strike from the right side, since left-handers are usually not used
to strike effectively from the right side and vice versa.
Note: Above all other things, you must understand the principles of "before" (Vor) and
"after" (Nach), because the entire art of fencing is based upon it. "Before" means, preempting him with a blow or a thrust against an opening before he can hit you, so he must
defend/displace (Versetzen). So, be flexible in your defense and aim with your sword at
one opening after the other, so he cannot get through with his own techniques. But, if he
rushes in, start wrestling.
"After" means: If you do not succeed with the "before", wait for the
"after". These are the defenses against all techniques he uses against Use Indes to restore Vor
you. So, if you have to displace him, make the displacement simultaneously" (Indes) and from the bind, strike immediately at his nearest opening. So you win
the "before" and he remains in the "after". Also, you should
during the "before" and "after" notice simultaneously" Always watch for opportunities to
(Indes) how you can "work" against the strong or the weak exploit the weak part of his weapon.
of his sword.
This means: The strong of the sword reaches from the crossguard to the
middle of the blade, with it, you can hold opposed, if somebody binds Sword physics. The
against it. The weak reaches from the middle of the blade to the point. Here flat is also weak in
you cannot hold opposed. If you firmly understand this, you can "work" and the standard grip.
defend yourself very well.
Princes and Lords learn to survive with this art, in earnest and in play. But if you are fearful, then you should not learn to fence. Because a despondent heart will always be defeated, regardless of all skill.

The "Fault" (Feint):

All fencers who rely on displacing are deceived and defeated with the Feint and watch his
fault. When you close with him, feint any Oberhau to his left side. From reaction for an opening.
there (when he wants to displace it) you can easily hit another opening.
Page 16

The "Verkehrer":

If you bind at your adversaries sword with an Oberhau or an Unterhau, turn your sword so
that your thumb is down and thrust to his face from above. So you force him to
displace the thrust. While he displaces, grab his right elbow with your left hand, Step in quickly
place your left leg in front of his right leg and toss him over.

The Double Feint:

Here, you must deceive him twice while closing in. When you come close to him with the
Zuefechten, jump towards him with the left foot and feint a Zwerch to the left side of the
head. But then turn the blow over and strike to the right side of his head. If you
have attacked him on the right side of the head as described, strike immedi- Duplieren behind
ately at the same spot. Then go over his sword with the short edge and your his sword
hands not crossed, jump to your left side and cut through his face with the
long edge.

The Sprechfenster

Note: It is called the speaking window. If he binds your sword with a strike or a parry,
then remain strong at the sword with extended arms (Langenort) using the long edge.
Keep the point of the sword at his face and calmly note what he intends against you.

Note: If he strikes around with an oberhau to your other side, then follow and bind
strongly with the long edge toward his head. Or if he strikes around with a zwerchau,
then hit on his arms with a high cut. Or if he yanks the sword to himself and wishes to
thrust to your lower openings, then travel after him at the sword and thrust high.

10

Note: If he neither wishes to withdraw, or strike around, then you will work with Probe his defense
the sword using duplieren and other techniques as you find out if he is weak or for weakness
strong at the sword.

Instructor Demonstration & Explanation Followed by Whole Class Step Through


Review master strike techniques and comment on initiative type.
Zornhau: displace with power & thrust (Nach)
Krumphau: leap out and strike hands of oberhau (Indes)
Zwerchau: displace oberhau & cut head (Indes)
Scheilhau: displace buffalo & cut head (Indes)
Sheitelhau: Step back & cut scalp (Indes)

C. Drills
Guard Breaking Drill (from Ochs: Longsword

DVD)
One partner adopts each of the Primary Guard
positions, and the other partner responds with
the appropriate Master Strike. Partners alternate this role for each stroke.

D. Play Time
Push Me, Pull You (from Schola St. George)
Each partner grips a sword handle in his right
hand. He then grips his partners sword blade
about 8 from the tip in his left hand. The players are now connected by two swords. The
goal is to push and pull on one, or both of the
swords in an attempt to get the other player off
balance. This game may be played with stationary feet, or with both partners moving and
circling.

E. Focused Sparring to Improve Timing, Followed by Open Sparring

Page 17

9. Advanced Techniques 1

Nachreissen, Fuhlen, Abnahmen, Ueberlauffen, Absetzen, Durchwechseln and Zucken

A. Review Key Concepts from Previous Sessions

Safety & Intent Reminder

Five Master Strikes


Intermediate Guards Drill
Versetzen at quick speed

1. SAFETY: number ONE concern.


Everyone should keep the safety of
everyone else in mind at all times. Do
not break your training partners. Do
not take wide-open, or cheap shots.

B. Introduce New Material


Historical Source & Background

8. The "Traveling After" (Nachreissen):

2. INTENT: move, act and strike with


you should learn both. appropriate, realistic force and motion.
Keep range in mind. Avoid exaggerated motions. Partners must be fully
He is fencing with his
cooperative or resistant when learning
arms, not his body. His
techniques.

There are two kinds of Nachreissen, and


Use the first against an Oberhau. If he
raises the sword to strike, travel after him
with a strike or a thrust and hit him in the
upper opening before he can complete point is not on line.
the strike. Or fall on his raised arms with
the Lange Schneide (long edge) and push
him away from you.

3. TARGETING: Use precise targeting


and be mindful of edge placement and
control. Do not lose sight of the
wounds that would be caused to unAnother Nachreisen
When he strikes an Oberhau and brings the blade down with the armored opponents by sharp swords.

strike, travel after him with a strike on the head before he can get
his sword up again. But if he wants to thrust at you and pulls the sword
back to prepare for the thrust, travel after him and thrust at him, before Void his attack, and then strike
after his blade in the same arc.
he can do it himself.

A third Nachreisen
When he strikes short in front of you, travel after him with a strike to the
high opening. If he moves up and winds against your sword from below,
note: as soon as the swords clash together, fall on his arms with the long
edge and push him away from you. Or cut through his face. Practice this
from both sides.

Do this as he lifts his sword


from a lower / Alber position. If
you are in his strong, step in
deeply as you cut his arms.

The "Abnahmen" from the outside


Note, there are two "Abnahmen" from the Outside, which are two "Nachreisen" at the sword (am Schwert). Do them like this: If his strike falls short,
travel after him. If he displaces that, stay at the sword (maintain blade contact) and check whether he's hard or soft in the bind. When he pushes up
your sword with strength, place your blade on the outside of his blade and
thrust at his lower opening.

Feel his intent in the bind.


Strike his flat as his blade
comes up and Mutieren, or
scoop his blade aside.

The second Abnahmen from the outside


Also, if you fence against him with low strikes or other techniques, and he
forestalls this and winds against your sword from above, so that you cannot
move it up, maintain strong contact with his sword from below. If he then attacks your high opening follow with your sword, take the weak of his blade
with your long edge, push it down and thrust into his face.

As he winds toward your


upper opening, step in as
you wind over the top of
his sword.

The "Fuhlen" ("feeling") and the word "Indes" ("while" or "during")


You shall learn and understand both the word "Fuhlen" and the word "Indes", because Tactical advice.
these two belong together and together they account for the greatest art and skill in
fencing. Therefore remember: if one binds against the others sword, you shall notice
right in the moment when the blades make contact- whether he has bound
hard or soft. And as soon as you have noticed this, remember the word "In- Fuhlen is the physical knowldes": this means that you should attack the next opening immediately and edge of what he intends to
nimbly, hard or soft. So he will be defeated before he knows it himself.
do.
Likewise, you shall remember the word "Indes" during all binds at the Indes is the moment outside
sword, because "Indes" dupliert" and "Indes" mutiert, "Indes" rushes of the rhythm in which you
through and "Indes" takes the 'Schnitt', "Indes" wrestles and "Indes" dis- are free to attack.
arms him, "Indes" in the art of fencing- does, what your heart desires.
Page 18

"Indes" is a sharp word, which cuts all fencers, that don't know anything about it. And
"Indes is the key, which unlocks the art of fencing.

Fighting Techniques.
The Overrunning.

When he crosses swords, with a cut or thrust to the lower openings, then you will not
set him aside. Rather wait, until you may strike or cut at his head. So you defeat him Geometry play
because the oberhau and thrust have longer reach then unterhau.

The Absetzen
You must learn the art of setting aside so that his cuts and thrusts may be broken.
Do it like this. When he stands before you, as though to strike your lower opening, then
take the guard of the plow on your right side to open your left. When he strikes to your left
wind against his sword to your left and take one step with your right foot toward him: so
you achieve your thrust and he has been displaced.

The Second Set-aside.


When you stand opposite him in the guard of the plow on your left side and he strikes
towards your open left side move your sword high to your left side, with the hilt before
your face. Take one step towards him with right foot and thrust through his face.

The Change Through


Do it like this: if he wants to engage you in a bind against Cut or Thrust, so let the point/
thrust slide through under his sword and stick/stab him in the other side. There you find
him exposed.

The Twitching.
When you move in to strike him from your right with an Oberhau to the head and he binds
your sword, take a single step towards him, maintaining pressure against his sword. Then
jerk your sword backwards and away from his to disengage. Then strike his head from the
other side. If he sets this aside, then hit him on the other side and work skillfully to his upper openings with Duplieren and other pieces.

Instructor Demonstration & Explanation Followed by Whole Class Step Through

Nachriesen is a principle, not a set of techniques.


In general, aim at his hands when using most Nachriesen techniques.

C. Drills
Fhlen Drill (from Fighting with the German Longsword)
Partners agree to a strike and counter-strike technique (I.e. Zornhau v. oberhau from the right). The
attacking partner then varies the degree to which
he is at the sword, and the responding partner
must use an appropriate technique based on the
attackers level of commitment. You will want to
pre-plan the level of commitment the attacker will
use at first. Start slowly and carefully as this skill
takes a lot of time and practice.

D. Play Time
Push Me, Pull You (from Schola St. George)
Each partner grips a sword handle in his right hand.
He then grips his partners sword blade about 8
from the tip in his left hand. The players are now
connected by two swords. The goal is to push and
pull on one, or both of the swords in an attempt to
get the other player off balance. This game may be
played with stationary feet, or with both partners
moving and circling.

E. Focused Sparring to Improve Timing, Followed by Open Sparring


Page 19

10. Advanced Techniques 2


Wrestling at the Sword

A. Review Key Concepts from Previous Sessions

Five Master Strikes


Intermediate Guards Drill
Versetzen at quick speed

B. Introduce New Material


Historical Source & Background
The Walkthrough.

Safety & Intent Reminder


1. SAFETY: number ONE concern.
Everyone should keep the safety of
everyone else in mind at all times. Do
not break your training partners. Do
not take wide-open, or cheap shots.

2. INTENT: move, act and strike with


When he holds his sword aloft to strike you a powerful blow then appropriate, realistic force and motion.
will you hold your sword with the left hand on the pommel above Keep range in mind. Avoid exaggerated motions. Partners must be fully
your head and the blade over your back.
cooperative or resistant when learning
Duck under his right arm and spring your right This spring must
be
a
large
enough
techniques.
foot behind his right foot. In the spring grip

For all of these throws, use the equilateral triangle method for determining his off-balance point.

him with your right arm around his body. Take step to take you
him on the right hip and throw him to the nearly past him.
ground.

3. TARGETING: Use precise targeting


and be mindful of edge placement and
control. Do not lose sight of the
wounds that would be caused to unA Second Walkthrough.
When he holds his sword aloft to strike you a powerful blow then armored opponents by sharp swords.

will you hold your sword with the left hand on the pommel above
your head and the blade over your back. Duck under his right arm, leave your right
leg in front of his and grip him with your right arm around his back, then throw him Use this one if you
behind you.
cannot spring all the
way past him.

First Sword Wrestling.

When you come in, let you sword out in your left hand and hold it in with your right.
Knock his sword away with the hilt out of your right side. Spring your left foot in front of
his right, grip him with your left arm about his body take him on the left hip and throw him
to the ground. Be careful to make no mistake.

Second Sword Wrestling.


When you come in, let you sword out in your left hand and hold it in with your right.
Knock his sword away with the hilt out of your right side. Spring with the left foot behind
his right. Grip him with the left arm around the chest, throw him over your leg behind you.

A Third Sword Wrestle


When you come in, let you sword out in your left hand and hold it in with your right.
Throw the pommel over his right arm, and tear it downwards. Grab his right elbow, spring
your left foot before his right and pull him over your leg so that he goes over your right
side.

A Fifth Sword Wrestle.


If someone comes in close to you, then use your left hand and drive with it over his right
arm. Seize his sword at the handle between his two hands and pull it to your
left side. Thus you take the sword from him and it will go badly for him.
Always pull the weapon
out through the weakest
Taking a Sword.
If he binds your sword by engaging it or by other means, then seize both part of the grip.
swords in the centre of the blades with the left wrong hand. Hold them together firmly, and drive through with your right hand to your left side with the pommel
down, over both of his hands. And then pull upward to your right side thus you take both
swords.

Instructor Demonstration & Explanation Followed by Whole Class Step Through

C. Drills
Fhlen Drill (from Fighting with the German Longsword)
Partners agree to a strike and counter-strike technique (I.e. Zornhau v. oberhau from the right). The attacking
partner then varies the degree to which he is at the sword, and the responding partner must use an appropriate
Page 20

technique based on the attackers level of commitment. You will want to pre-plan the level of commitment the
attacker will use at first. Start slowly and carefully as this skill takes a lot of time and practice.

D. Play Time
Push Me, Pull You (from Schola St. George)
Each partner grips a sword handle in his right
hand. He then grips his partners sword
blade about 8 from the tip in his left hand.
The players are now connected by two
swords. The goal is to push and pull on one,
or both of the swords in an attempt to get
the other player off balance. This game may
be played with stationary feet, or with both
partners moving and circling.

E. Focused Sparring to Improve Timing,


Followed by Open Sparring

Page 21

Appendix A: Ringecks Commentaries


This is the beginning of the interpretation of the Knightly Art of
the Langenschwert, written down in rhymes by the grand
Fechtmiester of the Medieval German school, Johannes
Liechtenauer. He recorded his teachings in secret words, so
that the art may not be commonly spread. These secret phrasings were later interpreted and commented on in a book by
Sigmund Ringeck, at the time Fechtmiester of Albrecht, Count
Palatine of Rhine and Duke of Bavaria.

Footwork

Note: This is the first tenet of the long sword: learn to strike
blows equally well from both sides if you want to learn to fence
well. Note: If you want to strike from the (your) right side, make
sure, your left foot is forward (at the beginning); if you want to
strike from the left side, the right foot must be forward. If you
strike an Oberhau from the right side then, follow the blow with
your right foot. If you do not the blow is wrong and ineffective,
because your right side stays behind. Because of this the blow
will fall short and cannot travel in its proper arc towards the left
side. If you strike from the left side and you do not follow the
blow, it too is wrong. That is why no matter from which side you
are striking follow the blow with the same foot. So you will succeed in all techniques. This is how you shall strike all blows.

Tactical Basics

When you are closing to an opponent, do not watch his blows


and do not wait for what he might use against you. Because all
fencers, who just wait for their opponents blows and do not do
anything else than warding them off, do not succeed very often.
They are defeated very often.
Note: Always fence using all of your strength! When you're
close, strike at his head and at his body, so he may not be able
to change through (Durchwechseln) in front of your point. After
the blow, from the bind, strike light blows at his next opening,
as is described in the section about different blows and other
techniques.
Note: This tenet is addressed to left-handers and right-handers.
If you are a right-handed fencer and you are closing to an opponent and you think you can hit him, do not strike the first
blow from the (your) left side. Because you are weak there and
you cannot resist, if he binds strongly against your blade. Because of this, strike from the right side, you can work strongly
"Am Schwert" ("on the sword") and you can use all techniques
you like. So, if you are left-handed, do not strike from the right
side, since left-handers are usually not used to strike effectively
from the right side and vice versa.
Note: Above all other things, you must understand the principles of "before" (Vor) and "after" (Nach), because the entire art
of fencing is based upon it. "Before" means, pre-empting him
with a blow or a thrust against an opening before he can hit
you, so he must defend/displace (Versetzen). So, be flexible in
your defence and aim with your sword at one opening after the
other, so he cannot get through with his own techniques. But, if
he rushes in, start wrestling.
"After" means: If you do not succeed with the "before", wait for
the "after". These are the defenses against all techniques he
uses against you. So, if you have to displace him, make the
displacement simultaneously" (Indes) and from the bind, strike
immediately at his nearest opening. So you win the "before"
and he remains in the "after". Also, you should during the "before" and "after" notice simultaneously" (Indes) how you can
"work" against the strong or the weak of his sword.
This means: The strong of the sword reaches from the crossguard to the middle of the blade, with it, you can hold opposed,

if somebody binds against it. The weak reaches from the middle
of the blade to the point. Here you cannot hold opposed. If you
firmly understand this, you can "work" and defend yourself very
well.
Princes and Lords learn to survive with this art, in earnest and
in play. But if you are fearful, then you should not learn to fence.
Because a despondent heart will always be defeated , regardless of all skill.

Overview of The Fighting Techniques

Note: these are the names of the main techniques of the art of
the long sword, whose names are chosen in such a way that
you may understand them better. There are seventeen techniques and they start with the five strikes.
1. The first strike is the strike of wrath (Zornhau)
2. The second one is the "crooked strike" (Krumphau)
3. The third one is the Zwerchhau
4. The fourth one is the squinting strike (Schielhau)
5. And the fifth one is the "parting strike" (Scheitelhau)
6. Sixth there are the four basic guards
7. Seventh there are the four techniques of displacement (Versetzen)
8. Eighth there is the Nachreissen ("Traveling after")
9. Ninth there is the Overrunning (Ueberlaufen)
10. Tenth there is the setting aside (Absetzen)
11. Number eleven is the changing through (Durchwechseln)
12. The twitching (Zucken)
13. The running through (Durchlaufen)
14. The cutting off (Abschneiden)
15. The pressing of the hands
16. The "Hanging"
17. And finally there is the Winding

The Fighting Techniques:

The Strike of Wrath and the Winding

Note: When your adversary strikes at you from his right side
with a strike from above (Oberhau), then hit with a strike of
wrath from your right shoulder against it. Strike with your true
edge and in your strong. When he is weak at the sword then,
thrust into his face along his blade.
When you thrust against his face from the strike of wrath and he
notices this and displaces the thrust with strength, pull your
sword upwards, away from his. And then strike to the head
from the other side, also along his blade. When you strike a
strike of wrath and he displaces it and remains strong at the
sword, hold strongly against it. With the strong of your sword,
slide up to the weak (schwech) of his blade, wind the hilt in front
of your head while remaining on the sword (am schwert) and
thrust into his face from above.
When you thrust from the Winding as described and he displaces the thrust by lifting up his arms and his hilt, stay in the
Winding and take the Ort (point or thrust) down between his
arms and breast.
Note: When you engage at the sword ("binden") with strength
and your adversary pulls his sword upwards and strikes at your
head from the other side, then bind strongly with the true edge
and strike him on the head.
You must notice immediately, if someone is weak or strong at
the sword if he binds at your sword with a strike or a thrust. If
you have noticed that, you shall know simultaneously, if it is
better to fight him in the "before" (Nach) or the "after" (Vor). But
dont engage rashly in close-combat (Krieg), this is nothing else
than Winding (Winden) at the sword.
Page 22

In close-combat you should do the following: if you strike him


with the strike of Wrath and he displaces it, lift up your arms
and, at the sword, wind the point to the upper opening. When
he displaces (Versetzen) the thrust, stay in the winding and
thrust to the lower opening. If he follows your sword in the displacement (Versatzung), lead your point through under his
sword (disengage under "durchfhren") and thrust to the other
opening on his right side. This is how you can defeat him in
close-combat.

this with a Krumphau with crossed hands from his right side
and if he pushes your sword to the ground, then wind towards
your right side, raise your arms over your head and thrust at his
breast from above. If he displaces that,stand as you are, with
the hilt in front of your head and nimbly work with the point
from one opening to the other. This is called the "noble war"
and with this youll confuse him so much , that he will not know
how to defend himself against your attacks.

Mutieren and Duplieren against the four openings:

The Zwerchhau counters (literally "breaks") all downward strikes


made from above. Do it like this: If he strikes an Oberhau at
your head, "jump" (make a large, explosive step) to his left side
with your right foot, while you jump, turn your sword, so that
your hilt is high in front of your head and your thumb is down
(on the flat of the blade) and strike at his left side with your
short edge. So you catch his strike with your hilt and hit him
simultaneously on the head.

These are the four openings you should aim at in combat. The
first opening is the right side, the second opening is the left side
above the belt. The other openings are the right and left side
below the belt. Already pay attention to the openings when you
are closing in, aim at the ones he (your adversary) exposes.
Thrust with the "long point" (Langer Ort), use the "traveling after" (Nachreissen) and all other opportunities. Dont pay attention to what hes up to, fence securely and youll hit so outstandingly, that hell not be able to get through with his own
techniques.
If you want to break one of the four openings by force, then
"Dupliere" at the upper opening, against the Starke (strong) of
his sword, and then "Mutiere" to another opening. Against this,
he cannot defend himself and he will not be able to either strike
or thrust.
Duplieren: When you strike a strike of wrath (Zornhau) or any
other Oberhau and he displaces it with strength, with the left
hand, immediately thrust the pommel of your sword under your
right arm. With crossed hands, behind his blade and in between
the blade and his body, strike him diagonally through the face.
Or strike him on the head.

The Zwerchhau

This is how you can work with the stark (strong) from the
Zwerch: If you strike with the Zwerch, pay attention to strike
strongly with the strong of your sword against his blade. If he
strongly holds against it, strike him -at the sword- on the head
behind his blade with your hands crossed. Or cut him trough
the face.
When you bind at his sword with the strong of your sword with
the Zwerch and he strongly holds against it, push down his
sword to your right side with your hilt. And immediately strike
again with the Zwerch to the right side of his head.
If you bind against his sword with the Zwerch and he is "soft" at
the sword, place the short edge at the right side of his neck,
jump behind his left foot with your right foot and tear him over
with the sword.

Mutieren: If you bind against his sword, with an Oberhau or


otherwise, wind the short edge at his sword, raise your arms
and thrust at the lower opening from the outside along his
blade. You can use that from both sides.

If you bind against his sword with the Zwerch and he is "soft" at
the sword, push his sword down with the Zwerch and lay the
short edge at his throat.

The Krumphau:

When you bind at his sword with an Oberhau or another strike


from your right side and he strikes with the Zwerch at your
other (left) side, forestall this with a Zwerch to his neck under
his sword.

This is how you should strike the Krumphau at the hands. When
he attacks you from his right side with an Oberhau or Unterhau,
jump out of the strike with your right foot towards his left side
and with crossed hands strike against his hands using the
point.
This is how you can Absetzen ("set aside") the cuts from above
with the Krumphau: If he attacks you from his right side with an
Oberhau, step towards his left side with your right foot and put
your point in the Schrankhut. Practice this from both sides.
From the setting aside you can strike him on the head.
If you want to weaken a master, then while he strikes an Oberhau from his right side strike a Krumphau with crossed hands
against his sword. When you strike him with the Krumphau
against his sword, from the sword immediately strike upwards
against his head with the short edge. Or after the Krumphau
wind the short edge at his sword and thrust him into the breast.
When he strikes an Oberhau from his right shoulder, pretend as
if you are going to bind against his sword with a Krumphau. But
let your strike fall short, lead your point trough under his sword
and wind your hilt over your head and to your right side. Then
thrust him in the face.
This is how you can break the Krumphau: If you attack him from
your right side with an Oberhau and he displaces this with a
Krumphau with crossed hands from his right side, then strongly
hold your sword against his. And "shoot" (thrust) the point at his
breast with your arms extended.
Another defense against the Krumphau: If you attack him from
your right side with an Oberhau and he displaces (Versatzung)

A defense against the upper Zwerch:

This is how you can strike to the four openings with the Zwerch:
When you close in with your adversary with the "Zufechten", at
the right moment, jump towards him and strike with the Zwerch
to the lower opening of his left side. This is called "striking towards the plow" ("zum Pflug schlagen").
When you have attacked the lower opening with the Zwerch,
immediately strike another Zwerch to the other side, at his
head. This is called "striking towards the ox" ("zum Ochsen
schlagen"). And then strike swiftly alternating the Zwerch towards the plow and the ox, crosswise from one side to the
other. Then you can disengage from him with an Oberhau to the
head.
When you strike the Zwerch, you shall always jump to his flank,
namely towards the side on which you want to hit him. So you
can hit his head. And pay attention that you cover the front of
your head with the hilt while jumping.

The "Fault" (Feint):

All fencers who rely on displacing are deceived and defeated


with the fault. When you close with him, feint any Oberhau to
his left side. From there (when he wants to displace it) you can
easily hit another opening.

The "Verkehrer":

If you bind at your adversaries sword with an Oberhau or an


Unterhau, turn your sword so that your thumb is down and
thrust to his face from above. So you force him to displace the
Page 23

thrust. While he displaces, grab his right elbow with your left
hand, place your left leg in front of his right leg and toss him
over.

Stand with the left foot forward and hold your sword at your
right side above your knee,with your hands crossed, your point
directed at his face.

The Double Feint:

The third guard: Alber (the Fool)

Here, you must deceive him twice while closing in. When you
come close to him with the Zuefechten, jump towards him with
the left foot and feint a Zwerch to the left side of the head. But
then turn the blow over and strike to the right side of his head.
If you have attacked him on the right side of the head as described, strike immediately at the same spot. Then go over his
sword with the short edge and your hands not crossed, jump to
your left side and cut through his face with the long edge.

The "Squinter":

The Squinter is a strike which primarily "breaks" the strikes and


thrusts of those fencers, who rely only on their strength. Do it
like this: If he attacks you from his right side, strike from your
right side with the short edge and extended arms against the
weak of his sword and hit him on the right shoulder. If he
changes through, thrust him into his breast with your arms extended. You should strike like this, too, if he faces you in the
guard of the plough or if wants to thrust you from below.
Note: You should always deceive him with your line of vision.
Pay attention, if he fights short (feints).
You will know this when he does not extend his arms when
striking. You should strike then, too, move your point trough
under his sword and thrust him into the face.

Stand with your right foot forward and hold your sword in front
of you with your arms extended, your point directed at the
ground.
The fourth guard: vom Tag ("From the Roof")
Stand with your left foot forward and hold your sword at the
side of your right shoulder or above your head with your arms
extended.
And in this book, youll find written down how to fence from
these guards.

7. The Four Displacements (Versatzungen)

You have heard previously, that you shall fight only from four
guards. Now, you shall get to know the four displacements,
which are four strikes.
The first strike is the "crooked strike" (Krumphau). It counters
(literally "breaks") the guard (Hut) ochs.
The second strike is the Zwerchhau. It counters the guard Vom
Tag.
The third strike is the "squinter" (Schielhau). It counters the
guard Pflug.

Note: The Squinter breaks the "long point" and this is done as
follows:

The fourth strike is the parting strike (Scheitelhau). It counters


the guard Alber.

When he faces you and points his point against your breast or
face with extended arms, place your left foot forward and look
at his point. Feint a strike against his point, strike strongly
against his sword with the short edge and "shoot" (thrust) , with
a forward step with the right foot, your point against his throat,
with your arms extended.

And beware of all displacements used by bad fencers. Note:


Strike, when he strikes, thrust, when he thrusts. And in this
chapter and in the chapter on the five strikes you shall find written down how you shall strike and thrust.

When he strikes an Oberhau, look at his head, as if you intend


to strike him there. But then strike against his blow with the
short edge and then strike at the hands with your point, along
his blade.

The "Parting Strike"

Note: the parting strike is aimed at the face or breast. Do it like


this: If he is in the guard Alber, strike vertically downward with
the long edge. And while striking, keep your arms up high and
move your point to his face.
If you move the point at his face from above with the parting
strike and he displaces the point with the (his) hilt up, turn your
sword, lift the (your) hilt high above your head and thrust him
down into the breast.
When you strike a parting strike and he displaces with the hilt
high above his head, then this displacement is called "the
crown". From there you can rush in.
If he breaks the parting strike or any other Oberhau with the
crown and tries to rush in, cut him in the Arm under his hands
and push upward, so that the crown is broken. Then turn your
sword from the low cut into a high one and free yourself in this
way.

The Four Guards

There are only four basic positions which are useful in combat,
this are Ochs, Alber, Pflug, and vom Tag.
The first guard: Ochs (the Ox)
Stand with your left foot forward, hold your sword at the right
side of your head, your point directed at his face.
The second guard: Pflug (the Plough)

A Technique against a Displacement:

If a strike of yours has been displaced, note: if an Oberhau of


yours is displaced, stay in the bind, move your pommel over his
forward hand and tear it down; and strike him on the head simultaneously.

A Second Technique against a Displacement:

If you strike an Unterhau from the right side and he falls on your
sword (i.e., he pushes it downwards), so that you cannot lift it
up, move the pommel over his sword and, with a snapping motion, strike him on the head with the long edge. Or, if he falls on
your sword on your left side, strike him with the short edge
(Kurze Schneide).

A Third Technique against a Displacement:

If you strike an Oberhau from the right and if you want to end
the fight, then note: when he displaces, immediately strike
around (i.e., to the other side) with the Zwerchhau. Grab the
blade of you sword with the left hand and thrust into his face.
Or attack one of the other openings you can reach best.

A Fourth Technique against a Displacement:

If you thrust at his face at the Halb Schwert (half-sword) and he


displaces this, immediately strike him on the other side of the
head with the pommel. Or jump with the right foot behind his
left foot, move your pommel around his neck from the right
shoulder (i.e., his right side) and tear him down over your right
leg.

8. The "Traveling After" (Nachreissen):

There are two kinds of Nachreissen, and you should learn both.
Use the first against an Oberhau. If he raises the sword to
strike, travel after him with a strike or a thrust and hit him in the
upper opening before he can complete the strike. Or fall on his
raised arms with the Lange Schneide (long edge) and push him
away from you.
Page 24

Another Nachreisen

The Second Set-aside.

The "Abnahmen" from the outside

The Change Through

When he strikes an Oberhau and brings the blade down with


the strike, travel after him with a strike on the head before he
can get his sword up again. But if he wants to thrust at you and
pulls the sword back to prepare for the thrust, travel after him
and thrust at him, before he can do it himself.
Note, there are two "Abnahmen" from the Outside, which are
two "Nachreisen" at the sword (am Schwert). Do them like this:
If his strike falls short, travel after him. If he displaces that, stay
at the sword (maintain blade contact) and check whether he's
hard or soft in the bind. When he pushes up your sword with
strength, place your blade on the outside of his blade and
thrust at his lower opening.

The second Abnahmen from the outside

Also, if you fence against him with low strikes or other techniques, and he forestalls this and winds against your sword
from above, so that you cannot move it up, maintain strong
contact with his sword from below. If he then attacks your high
opening follow with your sword, take the weak of his blade with
your long edge, push it down and thrust into his face.
The "Fuhlen" ("feeling") and the word "Indes" ("while" or "during")
You shall learn and understand both the word "Fuhlen" and the
word "Indes", because these two belong together and together
they account for the greatest art and skill in fencing. Therefore
remember: if one binds against the others sword, you shall notice right in the moment when the blades make contactwhether he has bound hard or soft. And as soon as you have
noticed this, remember the word "Indes": this means that you
should attack the next opening immediately and nimbly, hard or
soft. So he will be defeated before he knows it himself.
Likewise, you shall remember the word "Indes" during all binds
at the sword, because "Indes" dupliert" and "Indes" mutiert,
"Indes" rushes through and "Indes" takes the 'Schnitt', "Indes"
wrestles and "Indes" disarms him, "Indes" in the art of fencing- does, what your heart desires.
"Indes" is a sharp word, which cuts all fencers, that don't know
anything about it. And "Indes is the key, which unlocks the art
of fencing.

A third Nachreisen

When he strikes short in front of you, travel after him with a


strike to the high opening. If he moves up and winds against
your sword from below, note: as soon as the swords clash together, fall on his arms with the long edge and push him away
from you. Or cut through his face. Practice this from both sides.

Fighting Techniques.
The Overrunning.

When he crosses swords, with a cut or thrust to the lower


openings, then you will not set him aside. Rather wait, until you
may strike or cut at his head. So you defeat him because the
oberhau and thrust have longer reach then unterhau.

The Absetzen

You must learn the art of setting aside so that his cuts and
thrusts may be broken.
Do it like this. When he stands before you, as though to strike
your lower opening, then take the guard of the plow on your
right side to open your left. When he strikes to your left wind
against his sword to your left and take one step with your right
foot toward him: so you achieve your thrust and he has been
displaced.

When you stand opposite him in the guard of the plow on your
left side and he strikes towards your open left side move your
sword high to your left side, with the hilt before your face. Take
one step towards him with right foot and thrust through his
face.
Do it like this: if he wants to engage you in a bind against Cut or
Thrust, so let the point/thrust slide through under his sword and
stick/stab him in the other side. There you find him exposed.

The Twitching.

When you move in to strike him from your right with an Oberhau
to the head and he binds your sword, take a single step towards him, maintaining pressure against his sword. Then jerk
your sword backwards and away from his to disengage. Then
strike his head from the other side. If he sets this aside, then hit
him on the other side and work skillfully to his upper openings
with Duplieren and other pieces.

The Walkthrough.

When he holds his sword aloft to strike you a powerful blow


then will you hold your sword with the left hand on the pommel
above your head and the blade over your back. Duck under his
right arm and spring your right foot behind his right foot. In the
spring grip him with your right arm around his body. Take him
on the right hip and throw him to the ground.

A Second Walkthrough.

When he holds his sword aloft to strike you a powerful blow


then will you hold your sword with the left hand on the pommel
above your head and the blade over your back. Duck under his
right arm, leave your right leg in front of his and grip him with
your right arm around his back, then throw him behind you.

First Sword Wrestling.

When you come in, let you sword out in your left hand and hold
it in with your right. Knock his sword away with the hilt out of
your right side. Spring your left foot in front of his right, grip him
with your left arm about his body take him on the left hip and
throw him to the ground. Be careful to make no mistake.

Second Sword Wrestling.

When you come in, let you sword out in your left hand and hold
it in with your right. Knock his sword away with the hilt out of
your right side. Spring with the left foot behind his right. Grip
him with the left arm around the chest, throw him over your leg
behind you.

A Third Sword Wrestle

When you come in, let you sword out in your left hand and hold
it in with your right. Throw the pommel over his right arm, and
tear it downwards. Grab his right elbow, spring your left foot
before his right and pull him over your leg so that he goes over
your right side.

A Fifth Sword Wrestle.

If someone comes in close to you, then use your left hand and
drive with it over his right arm. Seize his sword at the handle
between his two hands and pull it to your left side. Thus you
take the sword from him and it will go badly for him.

Taking a Sword.

If he binds your sword by engaging it or by other means, then


seize both swords in the centre of the blades with the left wrong
hand. Hold them together firmly, and drive through with your
right hand to your left side with the pommel down, over both of
his hands. And then pull upward to your right side thus you take
both swords.

Page 25

Appendix B: Class Structure

This Class Structure has been adapted from Schola St. George.
Review Previous Key Concepts & Drills
This part, at the beginning of each class serves to
remind students of what has been covered thus far.
There is also a safety lecture each and every session.

Introduce
The first step in presenting the material to students
is to provide the historical background for the master involved and for the weapon at hand.
Next, elements of the techniques are distilled and
presented, verbally, physically and recorded in at
least written--if not photographic--form to key the
student's memory. This presentation will over time
become ever-more refined, and will incorporate
much of what is continually learned from new students with diverse martial backgrounds.
The instructor then steps through the technique
with the students, correcting gross and subtle
errors.

Drill
Next, the students follow drills designed to build
muscle and intellectual memory for the movements
involved. Usually these are repetition drills that
should be done outside of class as well as within. It
often takes hundreds, or even thousands of repetitions for a student to integrate a technique; hence it
is absolutely critical that students do key drills at
home--daily if possible.
Generally, it is good to review drills for a couple of
weeks after introducing them, encouraging students to do extra repetitions or custom drills to correct specific issues.
Often, drills incorporate extremely slow movements. Speed gains little except at the very end of
the process; when moving slow, you're working on
position. To work on timing, use focused sparring.
Students should not, in drill, attempt to "win" the
engagement, but must be cooperative or resistant
according to the instructor's direction.
Drill creates the how of a particular fighting technique; focused sparring teaches when.

Play Time
Play Time exercises not only work physical skills,
but also build the mental aspects of the fight, in
particular initiative, timing, balance, and endurance.
Such play helps to keep the students involved in
the hard work that is training.

Focused Sparring to Improve Timing


Many schools excel at teaching historical technique. However, the historical manuals do not say
much with respect to teaching the mental aspects
of the fight, or to the integration of technique into
the fighting psyche.

Integration is the bridge step between doing the


technique in drill or practice and executing it under
the stress of a fight. Two very different things!
To internalize the when of using a technique in a
fight, a combatant enters into a sparring engagement looking only for the time when a specific thing
can be done with a resistant opponent under the
stress of a fight.
In the first step, the opponent is aware of the student's objective and will execute maneuvers specifically to invite the technique, but at speed and
with increasing resistance.
In the second step, the opponent will be unaware
of specifically what the student is working on. The
student is challenged to see the moment for the
new technique. One or more sparring sessions may
pass without the proper time for the technique appearing. This is where the student must resist the
urge to worry about the win/loss outcomes of the
fight and focus instead on seeing that fleeting moment when the technique in question can be used.
Once the time does show up, then it will become
more quickly apparent the second time, and still
easier to see the third, etc.
Focused Sparring is not a quick phase, but it does
integrate the technique sufficiently so that it can be
employed under the stress of a fight, whether in
competition or in earnest.

Open Sparring
To finalize the benefits and to work on initiative,
timing, courage and the other virtues, open sparring is extremely beneficial as well as being rewarding and entertaining. Students should spar in whatever tradition they come to the WMA through, attempting to integrate focused sparring-built techniques into their fights whenever possible.
Open sparring usually comprises only a small potential of class time.
ARMA's four general rules free-play:
Placement: using good edge alignment and targeting
Intent: striking with some degree of force in proper
range to ensure actual contact and in a manner that
has sufficient motion to simulate the inertia of a real
damaging blow
Control: not hitting too hard or too fast to prevent
injury, plus not hitting off target
Time-on-Target: connecting with a sufficient interval
of time whereby the weapon makes contact in order
to simulate the energy that would have impacted or
penetrated

Page 26

Appendix C: Class Drills & Games

Baton Striking with Edge Control Game (from Ochs: Longsword DVD)

One partner wears a mask and protective gloves. He grips a baton in both hands so that there is at least 8 of
space between them. As he circles and moves, he will present the baton in front, or beside himself representing
target openings. The other partner strikes the baton with an appropriate strike, cut, or Master Strike. Careful attention should be paid to range, staying in an appropriate guard, striking power, and edge placement.

Vier Leger Drill


Right Vom Tag -- Left Phlug -- Right Ochs -- Left Alber -- Right Langort -- pivot -- Left Vom Tag -- Right Phlug -Left Ochs -- Right Alber -- Left Langort - pivot

Intermediate Guards Drill


Vom Tag - Kumphau -> Schrankhut - Unterhau -> Ochs - Zwerchau -> Phlug - Stich -> Kron - Oberhau -> Nebenhut - Zornhau -> Alber - short edge Unterhau -> pivot (Repeat on opposite side)

Fhlen Drill (from Fighting with the German Longsword)


Partners agree to a strike and counter-strike technique (I.e. Zornhau v. oberhau from the right). The attacking
partner then varies the degree to which he is at the sword, and the responding partner must use an appropriate
technique based on the attackers level of commitment. You will want to pre-plan the level of commitment the
attacker will use at first. Start slowly and carefully as this skill takes a lot of time and practice.
Guard Breaking Drill (from Ochs: Longsword DVD)
One partner adopts each of the Primary Guard positions, and the other partner responds with the appropriate
Master Strike. Partners alternate this role for each stroke.

Master Strikes Drills

Step through each Master Strike from right & left sides using ALL guard positions

Push Me, Pull You (from Schola St. George)


Each partner grips a sword handle in his right hand. He then grips his partners sword blade about 8 from the tip
in his left hand. The players are now connected by two swords. The goal is to push and pull on one, or both of
the swords in an attempt to get the other player off balance. This game may be played with stationary feet, or
with both partners moving and circling.

Roman Focus Game

Using good hand protection, partners attempt to slap each others hands with the boffer dagger. Only the hands
are valid targets. Both hands must stay in front of your body at all times. Free advice: keep moving!

Striking Pattern Drill (from Ochs: Longsword DVD)

First set starts in Right Vom tag: UpR, LowL, LowR, UpL
Second set starts in Right Nebenhut: LowR, UpL, UpR, LowL
Third set starts in Left Vom tag: UpL, LowR, LowL, Upr
Fourth set starts in Left Nebenhut: LowL, UpR, UpL, LowR

Thrust Targeting Game (from Ochs: Longsword DVD)


This game is just like the Baton Striking game, but uses thrusting target as the focus.

Winden Drill: Clockwise & Counter-Clockwise (from Ochs: Longsword DVD)


Work large circles moving through the eight windings clockwise and counterclockwise. Keep pressure on the blades, and maneuver toward a position from which
a good thrust could be executed.

Winden Game
Using boffer swords, masks and gloves, partners attempt to wind against each other in order to execute a thrust
from the bind. The swords should remain in a bind at all times, and players may not step out of range at any
time.

Kali Drills

Sombrata
Down & Back
Heavens Six

Page 27

Appendix D: German Martial Glossary

Ablauffen :(Running Off) Withdrawing the blade from an attack, before or after contact, by rotating it around the hilt to hit
with the false edge on the other side. Can be done singularly or
doubly. One of the primary ways of using a Kurze Schneide
attack. See Duplieren.
Abnemen :To move away or free yourself from a bind and make
another attack.
Abrayssen / Abraisen :(to break away) To push the opponents hand or weapon downward with the Gehiltz (hilt).
Abschnappen :(to snap off) To get free of a Band (bind) by
sliding or batting the blade away with a strong, controlled blow.
Abschneiden / Abschnyden :(cutting aside or cutting off or
to slice off) 1. Short drawing cuts known also as Schnitt
(slices), called Rakes in English, used at closer distances
against the opponents forearms and hands, they can be made
with both the lead and the back edges. These are drawing cuts
generally used against the opponents arms at close range.
Made singly or doubly (i.e., upwards and then down, or downwards and then up.) 2. To Slice over the arms from below or
above; usually with Langer Schnyde (Long edge). Abschneid =
Cut Away
Absetzen / Absezen :(setting aside) 1. The principle of timed
counter attack to deflect a thrust or parry a cut. While Absetzen
in a specialized sense refers to thrusts with opposition the word
can also be used to mean a simple parry, usually followed by a
thrust. It is also used to denote a type of trapping move in
which the sword is hooked over the opponents blade, dragging
the opponents blade down to the ground. 2. To parry an attack
on the lower Blossen (openings), the attack is put down by
leading his weapon with the Langer Schnyde (long edge) while
moving towards the side that the attack came from.
Abwenden :("turning aside") To ward off a blow as with a
deflecting strike.
Abzug :(Withdrawal) According to Meyer, a stage of engagement where the combatant tries to disengage without being hit,
usually delivering a retreating strike to cover the withdrawal.
Alber :(fools guard) A low middle stance with point down.
This stance takes its name from Liechtenauers belief that only a
fool stays on the defensive, relinquishing the initiative to his
opponent. He acknowledged the superior defensive qualities of
this stance by including it among his four. See Posta Tuta di
Ferro.
Alter Schnitt :(After Slice or The Ancient Slice) A cut over
the arm of the opponent when he has repulsed a Nachreissen.
To move in to slice on the opponents extended arms as a Nach
action following the completion of his strike. Part of the secrets of fencing in contrast to the fundamentals of the art.
Am Schwert :(on the sword) Attacks made while maintaining
constant pressure on the opposing blade, also known as the
Winden (winding or turning). The second grouping of attacks
made in the Krieg phase of combat. These are attacks made
without leaving the opposing blade, maintaining constant blade
contact throughout the course of the attack. Better known as
the Winden (Winding or Turning).
Anbinden / Ambinden :(crossings of the blade or tied up)
The engaged position with weapons crossed in which the
weapons collide together in their moment of contact. Called
Incrosar a Mezzo Spada (crossed at half-sword) by Fiore.
Ansetzen :(place) An attack (or thrusts) aimed at a certain
body part.
Auffangen :(Catching) According to Meyer, a simple block,
wherein the opponents attack, rather than deflected off or
struck down, is stopped by interposing your own weapon in its
path. Essentially an edge parry. Meyer recognized it conferred
no particular advantage and recommended against it (in favor
of setting aside, Absetzen, and warding off, Abwenden). But he

acknowledged it was sometimes necessary.


Aureissen:("Pull away"). According to Leckchner, When
somebody binds at your sword and remains strong in the binding, move with your hilt over both his hands and pull them down
towards you again. You create an opening and hit him.
Aussernym :(Outertaking or Outerwinding) In a crossed
sword position, to pressure the opponents blade in a bind so
as to press it aside or down, thereby creating a small opening
to which you suddenly reverse pressure and slice forward.
Bainbruch :(leg break) A wrestling-grip made exclusively or
partially at the legs, which throws an opponent to ground.
Bedebern / Bedebren :To defend with stabs or blows.
Bleiben :(Remaining) In a binding position to maintain the
blades pressing in contact and thereby sense the opponents
intentions through feeling the pressure on his blade (i.e., Fhlen).
Binden / Band :(bind) The moment of contact between
weapons and the actual contact of two weapons. A bind or
trapping action by pressing blade upon blade (usually edge on
edge at the ricasso). See Band.
Binden an das Schwert:("binding on the sword") A term from
the Codex Wallerstein.
Blizen / Blitzen :(flashes) To strike with a shower of sparks.
See Glutzen and Klitzen.
Blossen / Bloen :(openings) The fencers body divided by
two imaginary lines across the belt and vertexes into four
Blossen: a right and left upper and lower Blossen. The name
probably came from organized fight practice, particularly from
the instructions and theory part, where it was in the first lesson
as a term for any unprotected body parts. The Four Openings
are areas to aim at in combat, the first opening is the opponents right side, the second opening is their left side above the
belt, and the other openings are their right and left sides below
the belt. Liechtenauer first proposed the idea of there being
only four quarters or openings high and low, left and right.
English text MS. 39564 also refers to smyting the quarters or
to pley a quarter.
Blossfechten :Unarmored combat in the Fechtschulen as distinguished from armored fighting.
Brechen :(breaks) To penetrate by force, to wound, or to defend effectively.
Brechfenster:breaking window, see Sprechfenster
Das Brentschirn / Das Brentschrn :According to Talhoffer, a
bind or an entanglement with the shortened sword during HalbSchwert. Also a state of battle in which the edges of the swords
rub together in the Band. In attempt to usurp the opposing
sword from this position.
Bruch :(break) In swordplay, the action of an effective defense
being a counterattack that breaks the adversarys own
strike. See Stuck.
Brysen :(breezes) A defensive push, to press hard, cornering.
Buffel/ Pffel :(buffalo) An expletive for fighters without the art
of defense, those who use the virtue of strength alone.
Cuts:The German schools recognized three major forms of cut:
Oberhau (over cuts) downward diagonal or vertical, Unterhau
(under cuts) upward or rising, and Zwerchhau or Mittelhau,
(crosscuts) horizontal right-to-left and horizontal left-to-right.
Diagonal cuts were Zornhau and vertical were Scheitelhau.
There were several names for various specific individual cuts
such as: Streithau (the battle cut), and Vater Streich (the father strike). draw cuts and slicing pulls were usually known as
Schnitt. The grand master Johannes Liechtenauer distinguished
five principal cuts: Zornhau (rage cut or strike of wrath),
made diagonally from behind the right shoulder; Krumphau
(twisted or crooked cut), made downwards with the false
edge, and effected with crossed or twisted wrists; Zwerchhau
(horizontal side cut); the Schielhau (squinting cut), made
Page 28

downwards with the false edge at the enemys shoulder or


neck; and Scheittelhau (the crown cut or parting strike),
made vertically downwards and literally aimed at the crown of
the head. See Segno cuts. Sigmund Ringeck (c. 1440) refers
Liechtenauers cuts as the five strikes. Meyer calls all blows
delivered with the true edge straight blows.
Dal Wegbinden:(The sling-away or the sling-behind) In Talhoffer, the act of puling the sword blade away from contact or
opposition and turning or withdrawing the body to use the second hand to seize or strike.
Das Gayszlen :The Spring throwing a cut from one hand to
increase its range by clutching the pommel with the second
hand. English text MS. 39564 frequently refers to the use of
blows from the spryng.
DGZPS :An acronym used by Duerer meaning, Das geht zu
paiden seiten (that works on both sides). This refers to the
bilateral symmetry of German fighting arts that multiplies the
number and variations of techniques.
Doppelhau :Liechtenauers double-cut. Cutting the same
way again or by following around or reversing the strike.
Doppelrundtstreich :(double round-strike) Quickly striking
through with two left-to-right horizontal cuts delivered from the
elbow (or half-arm and following around to strike again.) See
Rundstreich. Equivalent to the English Double Rownde Strike.
Doppelstich :(double thrust) From Joachim Meyer, 1570.
Drey Hewe :(three blows) A series of three main blows: an
Oberhau from the right, followed by an Unterhau from the left,
then a powerful Scheitelhau, or vertical downward blow.
Drey Wunder :(the three wonders) The three principle actions
used in the Krieg or Handarbeit phase of sword close combat,
the cut (Hau), the thrust (Stoss), and the Schnitt (a slicing or
drawing cut). The thrust was used primarily at longer range, the
cut at medium range, and the slice more at closer range.
Duplieren / Doplieren :(Doubling) To instantly follow up a
parried true-edge strike with a false edge strike around the opponents blade. A Winden variant; or an Oberhau that turns into
a Dupliert (snatch), through a swift crossing over of the arms the left hand, that guides the sword pommel, goes under the
right - in this position your sword is between the weapon and
body of the opponent, hit with a backhand with the Kurtzen
Schnyde against his unprotected head and a Zeckruroren
against the arms. See also Abluaffen.
Durchfhren :(Changing Through) In close-combat, to disengage under by moving your point under the opponents sword
to thrust at an opening on the other side. Durchfuehren means
continuing, going along and pressing through, and could
also mean to lead through.
Durchlauffer / Durchlauffen :(pass through, running
through or to run though) A term for two actions: 1. To run
under a highly directed attack of the opponent, while you keep
the hilt of your sword on the left side of your head and put the
blade across the back, and move through under the opponents
weapon. 2. To pass all the way under the opponents raised
right arm, so that you can reach his back and do a wrestling
throw.
Durchsetzen :(pushes through or to push though) A timed
thrust from above or below that passes between the opponents
held out arm and his body.
Durchstreychen / Straichen :(Striking Through or Stretch
Through) A falsing action by a circling-motion along the opposing sword, that disengages from one opening and stabs or
cuts into another. Also a type of Durchwechselns. According
to Meyer, sweeping or flourishing the sword in front of the opponent, to stall, confuse, intimidate, or provoke.
Durchwechseln / Wechslen :(changing through) The move of
evading contact with the opponents blade as you strike (e.g.,
changing line of attack). To change into another opening with
the point. Also called Durchwechsel.
Einhorn :(the unicorn) A posture similar to the Ochs, but with
the point aimed high like a unicorns horn. Also, from the
Sprechfenster straight thrust to the face; a Valsch Ortt, a thrust,

that was regarded as dangerous and malicious The term instills


a visual image that the executing fencer leaves behind his
weapon. The position may be equivalent to Fores Posta Finestra.
Einlauffen :(Running In) To duck under the opposing weapon
or employ closing and entering techniques (Einlauff).
Eiserne Pforte :(Iron Gate or Iron Door). Another name for
Alber, the Fools Guard. See Low guard. In the German
schools, the may be made in the center, left or right.
Ernst Fechten :(fighting in earnest) The idea of practicing real
killing techniques and not play or show fighting.
Falso Filo :The false edge. Also filo falso. Opposite of filo dritto,
true edge.
Fechtbuch :(fight book or fencing book) a German manual
on fighting techniques and methods, particularly swordsmanship, (plural Fechtbuecher), among the more famous are those
by the masters Johannes Liechtenauers of 1389 (by Hanko
Doebringer), Sigmund Ringneck of c. 1440, Hans Talhoffer of
1443, Peter von Danzig of 1452, Paulus Kal of c.1460, Johannes Leckuechner (Lebkomer) of 1482, Peter Falkner of 1490,
H. von Speyer of 1491, Joerg Wilhalm of 1523, Andre Pauerfeindts of 1516, and Gregor Erhart from the early 1500s. (plural
is Fechtbucher). Medieval Italian fighting manuals include those
of Tarcirotti of c. 1400, Fiore dei Liberi from 1410, Boris Ferres
of 1428, Fillipo Vadi of c. 1480, and Pietro Monte of 1509, and
there is also the Spaniard Diego de Valeras of c. 1490.
Fechtmeister :(Fight Master) - a German Master of Defence
or martial arts expert (Italian Meastro de Arme or Master of
Arms)
Fechtschule :(Fight School) A Medieval or Renaissance fencing school or public fighting exhibition and competition in Germany.
Federfechter :A German Renaissance fighting guild which favored the rapier among other weapons.
Ferzcken:Sudden abrupt changes of the direction of the attack
(i.e., changes in line).
Filo Dritto :The true edge. Opposite of filo falso, false edge.
Fixura :A sword & buckler technique from the anonymous German MS. I.33 or Tower Fechtbuch (c. 1295).
A thrust either crossed over or under the buckler or occasionally without crossing the buckler at all (not always distinguishable from the Stich).
Flech :German for the flat of the blade.
Fliegender :(flying thrust) From Joachim Meyer, 1570.
Fuehlen :(Feeling). Feeling or gauging an opponents pressure. To judge or sense the Harte or Weiche (hard or soft)
through the feel of your weapon when pressed in Anbinden.
Also called Fullen / Fulen / Fuhlen.
Fusshau :Liechtenauers foot-cut.
Gaukler :(juggler or acrobat) A derogatory term for those
masters who taught flowery, ineffective forms of swordsmanship as opposed to Ernst Fechten. See Leichmeister and Klopffechter.
Gefechten :Foot combat. As contrasted with mounted combat.
Geferte :The intended attacks and their manner of execution;
the movement of blow combinations. Gevert and Vart with significant adaptation and application in a fight. Also called Gefarte
/ Gefahrte.
Gehiltz / Gehultz :The cross guard of the hilt. See Croce.
Gemechstich :(groin thrust) From Joachim Meyer, 1570.
Geschrenckt Ortt : A thrust, in which the hands are held
crossed over, the left hand under right. See Langer Ort.
Gesicht Stich :(face thrust) From Joachim Meyer, 1570.
Gewapent Stehen / Gewappnete Hand :A half-sword (Halb
Schwerdt) stance where the sword becomes a barrier in front of
the body, by grasping the middle of the blade with the left hand
and the hilt in the right hand. The Term expresses the idea that
the position covers and protects the body against attacks.
Gewappet Ort / Gewappent Ortt :To thrust forth from the Stehen or shielded half-sword position.
Gleich Fechten :Attacking at the same time as the opponent or
Page 29

In des Fechten (as opposed to Nach Reissen and Vor Fechten).


Glietzhaw :(Clashing Blow) According to Meyer a forehand
blow in which the right hand comes in with knuckles upward to
catch an opponents blow on the flat, then rolls counterclockwise to deliver a false edge blow.
Glutzen (glow) :To make a shower of sparks. Also Klutzen.
Gurgelstich :(throat thrust) From Joachim Meyer, 1570.
Halb Schwert / Halbem Schwert :(half-sword) techniques of
gripping the middle of the blade itself with the second hand or
typically left hand (often by gloves or armored gauntlets). Also
called Halt-Schwert or Kurzen Schwert, they allow a wide range
of offensive and defensive striking and deflecting actions as
well as thrusts. It is used for the more powerful and more accurate stabs. The term comes from the pose of the left hand on
the blade cutting the sword in half. Called Mezza-Spada in Italian.
Halbschilt :(half shield) A sword & buckler technique from the
anonymous German MS. I.33 or Tower Fechtbuch (c. 1295).
A defensive position with both arms extended close together
and the sword pointing upwards at approximately forty-five
degrees.
Hals Fahen :A Winden variant. Also known as a Zu Legen. The
swordsman on the left lifts his arms up into the left Ochs position, pressing his Starck / Stark against the opponents
Schwech. He then slides his back edge down between the
opposing blade and the opponents head, striking to his neck.
The opponents instinctive parry adds force to the blow. From
here, the swordsman levers up with his back hand the slicing
pressure of the back edge on his neck forces the defender over
the attackers right leg, which is placed in a tripping or barring
position next to the defenders leg.
Halshau / Halsshau :Liechtenauers neck-cut. A horizontal
strike to the throat
Handarbeit :(Handwork). Phase of sword combat where the
swordsmen have closed distance and the blades have crossed,
follows from Anbinden, both Schwertnemen and Abschneiden
are often used here. Also known as Kreig or Mittel (Middle).
Handhabe :Hilt. See also Gehiltz.
Handhau :Liechtenauers hand-cut.
Harnischfechten :(harness fighting) Combat in plate armor or
harness fighting in the Fechtschulen as distinguished from
light or unarmored fighting, called Spada in arme in Italian.
Hart / Horte :(hard) A strongly aimed or forcefully controlled
cut, blow, attack or bind. The principle of hardness or force
rather than softness or yielding.
Hart und Weich :(hard and soft) The idea when ever contact
is made of gauging the pressure the opponent places upon
your blade (either strong or weak), oppose strength with weakness and weakness with strength to control and exploit.
Leckuechner stated to Test Weych (soft) or Hert (hard).
Hende Trucken / Hande Drucken :(pressing the hands or to
press the hand). A term of Liechtenauer likely meaning stop
cuts to the opponents hands or forearms. The term refers to
the pressure of the hands exerted by means of the sword-blade
against the arms of the opponent.
Das Hngen / Hengen / Hen / Hangend :(The Hanging or to
hang) An important and very versatile long-sword movement
referring to positions or actions where the point hangs downward from above, covering the body. The Hngen is not a guard
(but in a sense, results in one), but an action, or more precisely
a series of techniques delivered from the Ochs or Finestra position, usually as a Winden. Sigmund Ringeck described a classic
hanging action. Ringeck describes two hanging techniques
used when the blades are pressed or crossed, and the point
can thrust from under or over. It may be delivered from the Pflug
by raising the hilt and closing as the opponent strikes. He also
instructs to learn all cuts, thrusts, and slices while in the hanging. Meyer also calls the Hengen a technique. Also called:
Hanging Point, Hangetort, Hengetort, hengeten Ort.
Herzstich :(heart thrust) From Joachim Meyer, 1570.
Hochort :(high thrust/point) Possibly the Fenster or Window

guard (Italian Finestra).


Hffthau :Liechtenauers hip-cut
Hut / Huot :See Leger. The expression is based on the idea of
the protective vigilance , that the fencer occupies in the
Huten.
Huten :For the Medieval long-sword in the German schools
there are various fighting guards/stances/wards/postures (Leger
or position). Of these four are major universal ones of
Liechtenauer correspond to High, Middle, Low, and Outside
positions. Editions of Talhoffer show high, middle, low, outside,
back, plus three Halb-Schwert and a few other postures not
exactly clear.
In Des Fechten / In Des :(meanwhile or in the middle of)
Attacking during the adversarys own attack, one of the three
ways of overcoming an opponents attack along with Vor Fechten and Nachreissen. The concept In des or Indess means to
strike "just as" they do rather than actually simultaneously with
them.
Kampfplatz / Kampfring :An enclosed area where judicial duels and some foot challenges took place, it was made up of a
square wooden barrier or ring, equivalent to the Champ Clos.
Klitzen (claps) :To collide with noise.
Klopffechter :(clown-fighter) itinerant, crude fighting
swordsmen performers during the later 1500s and 1600s in
Germany, not considered a true Fechtmeister
Knopf :The sword pommel.
Krawthacke :(garden hoe) A swift sequence of vertical blows
to the upper and lower Blossen (openings) during which you
step towards the opponent. The term comes from the resemblance to the motion of a garden hoe.
Kreuz :(Cross). The long swords cross hilt. See Gefe and
Croce.
Krieg :(war) The phase of sword combat where the swordsmen have closed distance and the blades have crossed at
close combat. The meaning comes from war, the effort, going
against, the resistance. See Handarbeit.
Kron / Krone :(Crown) The German Kron is not a stance, but
actually a strike of Liechtenauer described by Sigmund Ringeck
(c. 1440). This action is essentially that of lifting the blade to
stifle and bind an on coming blow with the ricasso and guard
prior to counter-cutting. Also type of Halb Schwert (half-sword)
parry against a vertical downwards cut with the sword held
point forward over the head, used against a vertical downwards
cut to the head. Holding the sword over the head with the point
forward, catching the incoming cut on the portion of the blade
between the hands. Can be followed by a thrust over the opponents right arm at his face as a single-time or double-time
technique. In this posture the sword is crowning and protective over the head. Leckuechners definition of the Kron from c.
1482 is similar: Step and strike from above with your true edge
to his left ear. The other step and strike from above with your
short edge to his right ear. See also Corona or Posta di
Fronte.
Kronhaw :(Crown Blow) According to Meyer, a false-edge
blow made from the Kron position after catching the incoming
attack with on the ricasso or cross.
Krucke :(crutch) A sword & buckler technique from the
anonymous German MS. I.33 or Tower Fechtbuch (c. 1295). A
movement in which the sword is held almost vertically, point
downward with the buckler turned outward and very close to
the sword hand.
Krumpen / krumphawen :To execute a Krumphau. See Krumphau. Leckchner described that from the tailgaurd: "When
somebody strikes from above, or elsewhere, step out of line
and strike krump to his opening."
Krumphau / Krump :(Crooked or Twisted Cut or "Bend
Strike") 1. A downwards curt with the false edge made with
crossed or twisted wrists. 2. Any strike with crossed hands.
One of the Meisterhau. The Krumphau may be delivered with a
slicing or pulling action by the back edge of the blade while
close-in and blades are crossed. The German system taught
Page 30

cuts in the opening phase of combat not to be made from the


offside, so that the arms & wrists would not be twisted.
Kunst des Fechtens :The German Medieval (and Renaissance)
art of fighting, consisting primarily of the arts of the langenschwert or long-sword, the Messer (a sort of falchion), and
Ringkunst or Ringen (wrestling). Unarmored combat was known
as Blossfechten. Combat in plate armor was known as Harnischfechten (or harness fighting). Fighting on foot was also
distinguished from Rossfechten, or mounted combat. Similar
distinctions appear to have been made in Italy and elsewhere in
Europe.
Kurtze Schneide / Kurze Schnyde :(short edge) The back or
false upper edge of the sword, proceeding in the extension of
the thumb. The controlled upward backhand blow with the
Kurtzen Schnyde can only hit short distance. Opposite of the
Long edge (Lange Schnyde or true edge). Also called falso
filo in Italian.
Kurtzes Schwert :In half-swording, to shorten the sword-edge
with the left hand.
Langer Schnyde / Langen Schnyde :(long edge) The forward
or true edge of the sword, opposite of the Kurtze Schnyde
(Short back or false edge). Also called filo dritto in Italian.
Langer Ort / Langortt / Lang Ortt :(long guard or long
point) To thrust over a long distance with stretched out arms.
The Ort in means tip of the weapon and direction aimed.
Also a defensive thrusting position with the blade horizontal and
arms extended straight forward more, designed to create safer
distance between the opponent and ideal for warding and making stabbing attacks or stop-thrusts. Also Das lang Zorn ortt
(The Long Thrust of Wrath) according to Talhoffer.
Lazen varn :To miss with a cut or thrust.
Legen :To take a position like one of the Hutens or Legers. See
Hut. Also, in the Codex wallerstein, placing the blade at the
adversarys neck), followed either by a slicing cut or a throw.
Leger / Ligen / Lger :Position in German, referring to a fighting posture or guard. Another name for Hut; vantage ground or
ground-position with the weapon from which a change-hit begins and attacks can be advantageously repulsed. In contrast
to hut, Leger doesnt indicate the function of the position but
the position, the appropriate storage of the weapon. See
Huten.
Leng und Masse:("length and reach") A term from the Codex
Wallersten, referring to properdistance and stance.
Leichmeister / Leychmeister :(dance-master) a derogatory
term used by the German master Doebringer of 1389, for those
instructors who taught flashy but impractical and ineffective
fighting techniques, particularly for arms-dance and armsplays. Also possibly known as Knopfmeistern. See Gaukler and
Klopffechter.
Lincke Clinge :To control the blade with the Kurze Schneide
using only short, quick, nimble, yet clumsy cuts. Akin to making small upward beats.
Linker Ochs :(left ox) From Joachim Meyer, 1570.
Luxbrueder / Luxbrder :(Company of St. Luke) another major
Medieval German fighting guilds, similar to later English schools
of defence, they were headed by four adepts and a captain.
Man muss fleissig nachdencken :A frequent Fechtmeister
saying that, one must think about this diligently, meaning to
ponder the meaning of a technique or principle.
Meisterhau :(master cuts) The most prized techniques described by the grand-master Liechtenauer, mostly in which the
swordsman strikes in a manner so that his sword deflects the
incoming blow while simultaneously hitting the opponent. The 5
Meisterhau consist of: Zornhau, Zwerchhau, Scheitelhau,
Krumphau, and Schielhau. They essentially correspond to a
diagonal, horizontal, vertical, crossed-hand, and false-edge cut.
Mittelhau / Mittelhaw :(middle cut) A left-to-right horizontal
or slightly diagonal side cut. In contrast to that directed Oberhau from above and the strokes or, Unterhau from below, the
Mittelhau lies in a middle position.
Mortschlag / Mordschlag :(death blow or the Murder-

stroke) A type of rare Halb Schwert blow made by holding the


sword blade itself with both hands and striking with the pommel
or guard, used to slam a foe in heavy armor. The name came to
be, because of the dangerousness of choosing to direct a blow
to face or head. See Schlachender Ort.
Mutare Gladium :(exchanging the sword) A sword & buckler
technique from the anonymous German text, MS. I.33, or
Tower Fechtbuch (c. 1295) to indicate a disengage by passing
over or under the opponents blade so it is engaged in the line
opposite to the original position.
Mutieren :A Winden variant. To direct the course of attack from
the upper to the lower Blossen.
After the Anbinden with the Langen Schneide, wind the Kurze
Schneide into a Band, lift your arms and the hilt high and
change means Schiessen, with a thrust into the lower Blossen,
sliding away, over the opponents sword.
Nach :(After) The defensive or countering principle of fighting,
opposite of Vor (before), Nach und Vor are two important concepts in the Fechtschulen. If the opponent attacks first, the
swordsman is left with the Nach, or defensive principle.
Liechtenauer taught that a swordsman who accepts this turn of
events passively and merely parries his opponents blows will
eventually be struck and defeated. On the contrary, a good
swordsman seeks to turn the tide by somehow regaining the
initiative and going on the offensive.
Nachreisen / Nachraisen :(traveling after or attacking after)
A timed attack immediately after the adversarys own attack.
One of the three ways of overcoming an opponents attack
(contrasted with Gleich Fechten or In Des Fechten and Vor
Fechten). An advanced concept of inviting the opponent to
attack rather than taking the offensive, as is the general tenet of
German swordsmanship. These are techniques in which the
opponent is allowed to attack first, then counterattacked when
he is either in the middle of his strike, or after his strike has
missed.
Nebenhut :(Near Ward) The name for the Tail or low under
guard. Ringeck says it is used best on the left, but can be performed on the right with the long edge forward. Also meaning
beside or at your side in Leckchner in 1488 and Joachim
Meyer in 1560s. See Post Coda Longa.
Noterczunge :A fast repeated series of thrusts over the Gehiltz
of the opposing sword, by which a Durchwechseln (change
through) is initiated again and again, but is not executed, until
the opponent is overwhelmed and leaves a Blossen (opening)
for a thrust. The sword in its movement is like the hissing
tongue of an adder.
Obere Ansetzen :Techniques or thrusts delivered from above
or over the opponents guard (opposite of Untere Ansetzen).
Essentially a Stoccata.
Oberhau :(Over cut). Any cut or strikes made from above the
waist (Oberhuten) either diagonal (Zornhau) or vertical (Scheitelhau). Any blow directed from above usually made with the Langer Schneide (long edge). Also called Oberhawen.
Oberhut :(upper guard) The high or roof guard/stance in the
German schools, usually referred to as Vom Dach or Von Tag
(from the roof).
Oberschnitt :Downward slices made from above. See Schnitt.
Ochs :(Ox) One of the two upper Huten or Leger, with a left or
right side. In this stance, the swordsman holds the weapon next
to his head, with the point sloping down toward his opponents
face. This drooping blade position gives the stance its name,
as it resembles the lowered horns of an ox or protrudes from
the fighters head like a horn. They are confused and misunderstood more than any other. One variation places the blade diagonal and the other more horizontal as in the Finestra.
Offen :(open). The Germans preferred cuts in the opening
phase to be made from the right side, with the arms & wrists
uncrossed (open) so as to deliver more power and prevent the
hands from being tied up.
Ort :German for the point of the sword. Also spelled Ortt. See
Langer Ort.
Page 31

Pflug :(plow). One of the two lower Leger. A middle stance of


a slightly bent position with the arms and the hilt close to the
body next to the upper thigh, and the blade on a 45-degree
angle pointed at the adversarys face. It is well suited to making
thrusts and defending against middle cuts. This is the fundamental middle stance and may appear to be more left or
right depending upon which leg leads. However, the arms are
only extended when an action or counter-action is executed.
The posture is similar to the position taken when walking behind a yoke or a plow, hence giving the stance its name.
Pfoberr Zagel :A circular-motion with the Ort in front of the
opponents eyes, until a favorable Blossen (opening) is discovered; corresponds approximately to the Redel. With the Pfoberr
Zagel (foper zagle), the fencer executes a sword-movement that
resembles a pummeling wheel from the tail of a peacock.
Pforte :(Door) A defense-position, where you place the Ort in
front pointed towards the ground, like the Schrankhut and the
Alber. Often called the Eiserne Pfortes, since the idea is that the
sword is placed before the body like an iron door and deny
the enemy attack access to any Blossen.
Platzen :(burst through) To meet with an attack that reaches
the target. The noise of the entering weapon is described.
Rauschen :(rustles) To attack with a swift series of hits. This
expresses the swiftness of movements and the sound of the
attacks.
Rawsch :A wild attack. See Rauschen.
Rechter Ochs :(right ox) From Joachim Meyer, 1570.
Redel :To hold the sword with outstretched arms and execute a
swift circular-motion of the blade in front as a falsing. The name
comes from similarity to the rotation of a wheel.
Religando :(binding) A sword & buckler technique from the
anonymous German MS. I.33 or Tower Fechtbuch (c. 1295) to
indicate sword contact (engagement of opposing blades).
Ringen am Schwert :(Wrestling at the sword) Close-in techniques based essentially on a handful of key actions: reaching
out to grab the opponents hilt or arm, striking with the pommel
or guard, trapping their forearms with your second arm, slipping
the blade against or between their forearms, using the second
hand to hold the blade while binding/striking/slicing, and tripping and kicking, involved throws or grappling and disarming
moves known as or Schwertnemen (sword-taking) there was
also ground-fighting (Unterhalten, holding down). Also referred to as the Durchlauffen running through.
Ritterliche Kunst :The knightly art, i.e. noble martial skills
such as jousting, poleaxe, and swordplay
Rossfechten :Mounted combat in the Fechtschulen as distinguished from fighting on foot (Blossfechten) or strictly heavy
armored combat (Harnischefechten)
Rundstreich :(round-strike) Striking through with a horizontal
cut delivered from the elbow (or half-arm) and recovering by
bringing the weapon around from one side or the other to strike
again. Also to strike by bringing the weapon up around one way
and hitting from the other, acquiring power and deceiving the
line of attack. See Doppelrundtstreich. Equivalent to the English
Rownde Strike.
Ruren :To reach with a cut or thrust to the body.
Ryssen :To tear with the Uebergesetzten Gehiltzes at the body
joints or on the arms.
Schaide :Any kind of Band (bind), even between a hand and a
weapon. The idea of a close contact lies, in the grounds, as well
as that which exists between a sword and a sword-scabbard.
Scheitelhau / Schedelhau :(scalp cut, crown-cut, or skull
cut or the parting strike or "vertex strike") Liechtenauers
short, quick, high horizontal blow at the opponents forehead.
Also a vertical downward cut, from either side, and aimed literally at the crown of the head. A vertical Oberhau. One of the
Meisterhau.
Also called Schaytler, Scheytelhau, or
Schaittelhaw. It may be called the parting strike because it is
delivered as you pass back away from the opponent and the
blades momentarily engage. According to Meyer, a vertical
downwards cut with the true edge, also called an Oberhaw

(over blow or high blow). Schaitler = Apex


Schielhau :(the squinting cut or squinter) A downward cut
with the false edge at the enemys shoulder or neck. 2. A sideways cut (from above) with the back or short edge (Kurze
Schneide) of the blade, delivered with only one eye on your
opponent due to the manner in which the head and torso turn in
delivering the blow. Used mostly to deflect the opponents
blade and at the same time inflict an injury with the point. One
of the Meisterhau. Also called Schilhaw, Schiller, Squinters,
Schilcher. The Schielhau may be delivered by bringing the
blade back around behind the head to strike with the false edge
and passing with the leg.
Schiessen / Schussen :To execute a sudden and powerful
stab; in close combat, slide your weapon along the opponents
and use theirs as a guide.
Schiller:(the squinting cut or squinter or "glance strike")
One of the Meisterhau. 1. According to Ringeck, to step in and
strike at the opponents weak when they are in the Pflug in order to knock it aside and then thrust or cut. Often used to break
the Langen Ort. 2. A downward cut with the false edge at the
enemys shoulder or neck. 3. A sideways cut (from above) with
the back or short edge (Kurze Schneide) of the blade, delivered
with only one eye on your opponent due to the manner in which
the head and torso turn in delivering the blow. Used mostly to
deflect the opponents blade and at the same time inflict an
injury with the point. The Schielhau may be delivered by bringing the blade back around behind the head to strike with the
false edge and passing with the leg. Also called Schilhaw,
Schiller, Squinters, Schilcher.
Schiltslac :(shield blow) A sword & buckler technique from
the anonymous German MS. I.33 or Tower Fechtbuch (c.
1295). The use of the buckler to strike an opponents sword
and/or buckler to one side, while instantaneously delivering an
attack of ones own. To knock aside the opponents buckler and
leave him open to an attack.
Schlachender Ort :Another form of Mortsclag but one that
grasps the blade in both hands in order to make a thrust.
Schlaudern :(Slinging) An overhand slinging blow akin to Das
Gayszlen.
Schlssel :(Key) A ward from Joachim Meyer where the
sword is held horizontally in front of the upper chest with the
point forward and the false edge resting on the forward arm.
Schnall :(flick) A flicking blow with the tip of the sword,
equivalent to the Italian stromacione.
Schnappen :(to snap) To execute a sudden movement of the
weapon from the bind by using the hard press of the opponents own weapon to lift off and hit back. The suddenness and
noise of the movement are described.
Schnitt :(slice) Draw cuts and slicing pulls. To direct with
strength and bodies movement, Bruch over the arms or the
joints with the sword-edge, from above Oberers Schnitts, or
from below Unterer Schnitts. One of the three wonders (Drey
Wunder)
Schnitt durch die kron:(slice through the crown) A horizontal
slice from below with the Langer Schneide and your hands or
arms raised over the Kron.
Schrankhut / Schranckhut :(Crossed Ward or Barrier
Ward) Leading with the left leg, the blade is held before the
body on the right side, pointing down and with the arms uncrossed. Cuts are made stepping forward with the right foot.
According to Meyer, a position equivalent to a low Hengen usually with the left foot forward. Meyer indicates that this is also
called the Iron Gate. Perhaps equivalent to the Italian Boars
Tooth.
Schut :The disruption that results when touching weapons in
the Band.
Schutten :To jar, to knock together, with strength and noise,
and Anbinden.
Schutze :(protection) A sword & buckler technique from the
anonymous German MS. I.33 or Tower Fechtbuch (c. 1295). A
form of parry or deflect which is less well-defined and inconsisPage 32

tently illustrated.
Schwech :(weak) German masters divided the long-sword
into two portions, the weaker section of blade from middle to
point was known as Schwech (or Schwche, i.e. foible), used for
most thrusting and slicing but not parrying or binding (equivalent to the Foible of later renaissance fencing), opposite of Stark
(Starck). The further you move from the center-of-percussion
towards the hilt (Stark or forte), the weaker the strength when
cutting and parry. The blade middle was regarded as the starting point of the Schwech that increased further towards the ort.
Schwert Wechszlen :(Shifting the sword or sword change)
In Talhoffer, reversing the grip and grabbing the blade in HalbSchwert.
Schwertnemen / Schwertsnehmen :(Sword taking) Close-in
disarming or trapping actions. In the German schools close-in
techniques for wrestling at the sword or Ringen Am Schwert,
involved throws or grappling and disarming moves known as or
Schwertnemen (sword-taking) there was also ground-fighting
(Unterhalten, holding down). Called Gioco Stretto (Close Playing) in Italian, very useful and effective moves in long-sword
fighting, called Grypes and Seizures in some later Renaissance
styles.
Schwuch :A lever-grip on the arm, with momentum that forces
the opponent to fall. To Schwuchten, is to teeter-totter.
Sprechfenster :(Talking Window) The action of staying on
guard in a strong bind (Band) after an Oberhau is parried with
an upper Hengen, keeping the point directed at the opponents
face in order to forestall his action. The two weapons form a
kind of close window-cross. Ringeck describes it as useful for
anticipating the opponents action. Also called Brechfenster
("breaking window").
Stark / Starck :The stronger part of the blade nearer the hilt
(i.e., the forte) less effective for cutting but used for parrying
and binding. Opposite of Schwech. Also, powerful, effective
attacks or operations in the moment of contact between two
weapons (i.e., the Band).
Stercken :Attacks of particular effectiveness and those executed with skill (art); to linger in the Band with strength.
Stich :A sword & buckler technique from the anonymous German MS. I.33 or Tower Fechtbuch (c. 1295). A special kind of
Langort thrust in which the buckler is drawn back to the left hip
and the right elbow is advanced but sharply bent so that the
sword (held in supination) points down and backwards.
Storck / Sterck / Sterk :1. A strong Anbinden on the weapon.
2. The part of the sword-blade from the Gehiltz up to the middle
of the blade. 3. Attack of particular effectiveness and skill (art).
Also called Sterck, Sterk.
Streithau :(the battle cut) One of Liechtenauers blows.
Streychen / Straichen :To direct a blow from below against the
opponents blade to cancel their action. See Rota.
Stcke / Stuke :(device or piece, fighting trick). Techniques or attack combinations designed to get past an opponents defenses. A chain of techniques possibly in the manner
of a series of attack and counter drills. Key was the idea of
knowing the opponents likely response to each attack, and
attacking the opening that it creates. As the German masters
would say, one technique paves the way for the next. This was
not used initially, but appears in the later manuals. See Bruch.
Stcke und Bruch :(performance/maneuver and stopping)
Moving to strike so that the opponents attack is broken or
blocked before you strike. 2. Technique and counter or the
idea that every technique has a counter and every counter has
a technique, two major components of the German systems of
swordsmanship.
Sturtzhaw / Sturtzhow :(plunging cut, plunge blow, or
shifting cut) According to Talhoffer, a straight thrust from the
Hengen. According to Meyer a high strike used in Zuefechten
and made with the false edge with the hands high and the point
aimed at the opponents face. See also Talhoffers Prelhaw.
Taschenhaw :A Versatzung for mounted combat - a blow with
the Langen Schneide from the chief hut from mounted combat,

with which the sword is held in the bag of the slightly bent
left arm.
Tenner :The palm, the side of the hand that is not protected by
armor.
Through the roses :A 1555 edition of Johannes Leckuechners late 15th century fechtbuch, defines this as circular strike
with the lowest point of the arc aimed at the thigh.
Tuck lauff :A fast, secretive movement for the purpose of gaining a wrestling grip.
Tunrschlag :(From the Thunderclap) A close-in throw or
wrench according to Talhoffer.
Uberfallen :A cutting or thrusting over the opponents weapon
when it is held too low and his upper openings then become
exposed. Also, to hook and pull down, with your right hand
close to the Gehiltz, on the inside or outside of the opponents
weapon over his hilt, in the proximity of or directly over his
hand. See Uberlauffen.
bergreiffen :(Gripping Over) Using the fingers of the right
hand to wrap around or over the quillon (i.e., fingering).
Leckuechners late 15th century fechtbuch described it from the
Ochs position as: Grip with your right hand over your cross
guard into the blade, so that your fingers are standing in the flat
of the blade. If somebody is hitting at you, hit him with strength
that you just outdo his sword and twitch him your flat of the
blade at his right ear and go high in a displacement.
Ueberlauffen / berlauffen :(overrunning) 1. The concept of
timed counter-attack by outreaching the adversary just as they
attack, you move into or out of their action and strike their
closer targets exposed by their own attack. To outreach an opponent who attacks a distant target by targeting one closer. If
the opponent attacks a lower target, the swordsman doesnt
bother to parry; rather, he simply attacks a higher (and therefore
closer) target, outreaching the opponent. Typically a thrust, or a
cut using the very tip of the blade. 2. Any cut or thrust over the
opponents weapon, when he attacks the lower openings.
Umschlagen :To pull away after a blow for another to the opposite side. Similar to Talhoffers Dal Wegbinden.
Untere Ansetzen :Thrusts or techniques delivered under or
below the opponents guard (opposite of Obere Ansetzen)
Unterhalten / Underhalten :(holding down). Ground-fighting
techniques wresting or grappling moves included in the curriculum of the German systems of fighting, entering techniques
involving stepping in to trap the opponents forearms or grip
with you second hand or arm. Also a series of wrestling holds
used to immobilize and opponent once the opponent was
thrown to the ground. Once immobilized, the knight used his
dagger to kill the opponent, or tied his arms and feet with cord,
taking him prisoner. Also to hang on with a particular grip to an
opponent already thrown to the ground.
Unterhau :(under cuts) Any upward or rising strikes made
from below the waist (Unterhuten), either diagonal (Zornhau) or
vertical (Scheitelhau). Usually made with the Langer Schneide
(long edge).
Unter Schnitt / Undern Schnitt :To slice upward from below.
Valsch Ortt :A thrust to the face. A dishonest and dangerous
attack, that was only allowed in serious combat.
Vater Streich :(the father strike) One of Liechtenauers Meisterhau.
Verborgenes Ringen :(wrestling secrets) Dangerous
wrestling-grips that were allowed only in serious fights and not
for the public during fight school; Introductory remarks to their
use were demonstrated but not allowed to be used.
Verfhren :(Misleading) Meyer said Misleading enables many
moves and to remember when you show your intent, as if to
strike to one of your opponent's openings, do not do so, but
instead strike at another opening. Misleading is performed not
only with the sword, but also by presenting various false
stances to the opponent to lure or bait him into acting. The term
might also cover provoking tactics in this sense, similar to
Vadis falsit.
Verhawen :An offensive cut, made before the opponent can
Page 33

attack.
Verkehren / Das Verkehrer :According to Ringeck, a technique
where if you bind at the adversaries sword with an Oberhau or
an Unterhau, turn your sword so that your thumb is down and
you thrust to his face from above, forcing him to displace the
thrust, then grabbing his right elbow with your left hand place
your left leg in front of his right leg and to toss him over. Also, a
trapping technique of Joachim Meyer where the swordsman
hooks the opposing blade and carries it down to the ground,
sensing soft pressure from his opponent in engagement. Once
the opponents blade is trapped, he can strike at his head or
use a variety of other techniques.
Verkerer / Verkehrer :To thrust from the Band with swords rotated about 180 degrees. The expression refers to the swordposture. (backwards upside-down, turn or turning)
Veller / Fehler :To fake a cut or thrust from an upper Blossen
(opening) to a lower one, the concept of feinting high to low.
Verschieben :(Sliding) From the Zornhut (Guard of Wrath) to
lift your hilt over your head with your thumb on the blade (or
ecussion) and catch a blow on the flat, then immediately wind in
and slice.
Versetzen / Versatzung :(literally displacement or to displace) The concept of a defensive action to put off an attack
by a deflecting blow or counter strike as opposed to an opposition block, employed with evasive stepping (or the displacements are four of these cuts). Ringeck stated there were four
Versatzungen techniques. Abwenden and Absetzen are examples of Versetzen.
Verstllen :According to Meyer, the action of keeping the
blades stark pressed against the opponents arm or weapon
until an opening appears and a quick slice is used. See Bleiben
and Umschlagen.
Verzuckter Hau:(twitched strike) A term from the mid-15th
century Codex Wallerstein text.
Vidilpoge :(literally the fiddle-stick) A sword & buckler technique from the anonymous German MS. I.33 or Tower Fechtbuch (c. 1295). A movement in which the fighter holds his
sword essentially at right angles across his outstretched left
arm.
Vom Dach / Vom tag :(from the roof or from above) A high
guard, with the arms high over the head and the left foot is forward. Best suited for delivering strong cuts and threatening
blows.
Vom Schwert :(from the sword) The first group of techniques
allocated to the Krieg phase. These are made by suddenly lifting off pressure or moving away from the opponents blade.
Vor :(before) The offensive principle of fighting, aggressively
taking the initiative, opposite of Nach (After).
According to Liechtenauers teachings, a good swordsman always attacks first, seizing the initiative before his opponent has
the chance.
Vor Fechten :(attacking before) One of the three ways of
overcoming an opponents attack.
Vorfechter :A provost or advanced student in the Fechtschulen.
Waage :("scale" or balance) A low firm body position of balance in whatever stance you use. The standard fighting position with legs and arms slightly bent. Also: To make a Wrestling
grip on the elbow of the opponent and throw over your left foot,
before he puts his right foot down and is in a delicate equilibrium. The term assumes that the throw - like with a scales - is
only possible through the delicate balance-relationship corresponding.
Was sehrt, das lehrt :(What hurts, teaches) The idea in the
Fechtschulen that pragmatic knowledge follows only from realistic instruction and earnest practice (i.e., no pain, no gain).
Wechsel :(Change) A term used by Joachim Meyer when re-

ferring to turning over the blade in a Tail guard from one edge to
the other. Wechsel can mean a change of the stance from a
position with short-edge facing the opponent (right leg lead, the
blade forward, point down and to the left). This is a position
which actually results from a diagonal right-to-left downward
(Zornhau) cut. Similar to Fiores Boar guard.
Wechselhau / Wechssler :(changing cut or Changer ) An
attack, that is parried/deflected, suddenly changes into a cut
directed against another unprotected target.
Weckemeister :From the Pflug stance, to displace an attack
then deliver an upward thrust to the face from below.
Winden / Wennden /Wenden :(winding / wind or turning)
Any turning of the point or pommel around to strike or ward.
Close actions to maintain pressure and dominate the opposing
blade to get in and use either edge to slice (also allows you to
bind, trap, close, and seize). Any turning of the blade while
pressing on the opponents blade in order to bring one end or
the other of your sword (point or pommel) against them. To
wind the opponents weapon by the wrists before attacking.
Hallmarks of the Kunst des Fechtens. They typically involve the
application of superior leverage against the opponents blade.
The name is derived from the winding, turning motion of the
sword. Major variations of the Winden are the Duplieren, Mutieren, and Hals Fahen.
Werffen:("throwing" or "armlocks") From the Codex Wallerstein,
techniques, performed usually, although not always, with the
help of the blade.
Zeck / Zeckrur / Zecke / Zecken / Zeckruroren :(tick) To
deliver a slight hit with the weapon when in close combat. A
distracting hit or provocation. A light cut as a result of a Winden that often catches the opponent by surprise.
Zecken :Taps with the sword as a result of a Winden that are
comparatively light, but often catch the opponent by surprise.
Zornhau / Zorenuhau / Zorn haw :(rage cut or anger cut)
A powerful diagonal cut delivered from behind the right shoulder or back, either Oberhau (above the waist) or Unterhau (below the waist). Also any diagonal cut. One of the Meisterhau.
Zornhut :(guard of wrath or rage guard) A sparingly used
and vulnerable posture with the weapon pulled all the way point
down behind the back, but which allows the most powerful
blows such as Zornhau.
Zornort :To swing the sword back wide and then lifted over the
head to thrust. This is done with good body control.
Zu Legen :(laying on). A Winden variant, also known as a Hals
Fahen (neck catching).
Zucken :(Drawing) Generally applied to side-to-side cutting, in
a rownde or wind-milling/moulinet-type fashion. Alternately a
linear disengage or blade evasion.
Zucken :(twitches) A jerky freeing of the weapon from the
Band. When an opponent has over-stepped in the Band bringing himself nearer to you, you may take renewed cuts or thrusts
at the first opening. You will notice that during this, you remain
for another moment in the Band.
Zuefechten :(The Approach) The initial phase of combat, the
pre-fight or in pre-fencing before any engagement of weapons.
One of the two phases of combat where the combatants are
closing distance together to engage and an attack is made or
their weapons make contact (prior to Anbinden or else Handarbeit).
Zulaufent Ringen :Wrestling techniques used when first running together. Analogous to Zuefechten.
Zwerchhau / Zwerchhaw / Zwerch :(Thwart Blow) A horizontal or cross cut (also a slanting cut) made from either
side. A horizontal-strike to displace downward blows from
above. One of the Meisterhau. Also called Zwerch, Zwer Twerehaw, Twerchhau, or Geschrenckt Ort. Zwer = Thwart
Zwerchen :to execute a Zwerchhau

Page 34

Appendix E: Assorted Resources

Online Historical Manuals

ARMAs Historical Manuals Library: http://www.thearma.org/manuals.htm


Higgins Armory Library: http://www.higginssword.org/guild/study/index.html
Schielhaus Online Resources: http://schielhau.org/
Das Solothurner Fechtbuch: http://mhewer.club.fr/Library/SFB/page_01.htm

Chivalry Bookshelf
Chivalry Bookshelf Web Site: www.chivalrybookshelf.com
Secrets of German Medieval Swordsmanship, Christian Henry Tobler, ISBN 1-891448-07-2
Fighting with the German Longsword, Christian Henry Tobler, ISBN 1-891448-24-2
The Longsword of Johannes Liechtenauer, Part I, DVD, Hans Heim, Alexander Kiermeyer, ISBN 1-891448-20-X
In Service of the Duke: The 15th Century Fighting Treatise of Paulus Kal, Christian Henry Tobler,

Paladin Books
Paladin Press Web Site: www.paladin-press.com
Sigmund Ringeck's Knightly Art of the Longsword, David Lindholm & Peter Svrd: ISBN 1-58160-410-6
Sigmund Ringecks Knightly Arts of Combat, David Lindholm & Peter Svrd
Codex Wallerstein, Grzegorz Zabinski with Bartlomiej Walczak

HMA Group Web Pages

Stahlstadt Fechtschule: http://web.mac.com/perrywrogers/iWeb/FightingArts/


Rocky Mountain Historical Combat Guild: http://lamar.colostate.edu/~kenelson/RMHCG
Schola St. George: http://www.scholasaintgeorge.org/
AEMMA: http://www.aemma.org/
ARMA: http://www.thearma.org
Chicago Swordplay Guild: http://www.chicagoswordplayguild.com/
Sword Forum: http://www.swordforum.com/

Internet Video Resources


Eric Largos Video Site: http://www.ericwargo.com/sword/bouts/index.html
Eric Largos Schielhau Video: http://www.ericwargo.com/sword/bouts/using_the_schielhau.mov

Equipment Suppliers

Arms & Armor: http://www.armor.com/index.html


Albion Swords: http://www.albion-swords.com/
Hollow Earth Swordworks: http://www.hollowearthswordworks.com/
Sword Crafts Aluminum Wasters: http://www.swordcrafts.com/

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