Visual Representation of Why You Want to ‘Find the Blade’
We all know you should find the opponent's blade and we may even think we understand why, but you truly get a sense for the why once you've looked down the business end of a sharp antique.
Random Acts of Violence: Weird Plays in Rapier & Smallsword
While there are “bread and butter” players found repeatedly in the Franco-Italian-inspired fencing systems, sometimes you run into plays that are weird, different, or very unique. These are a collection of some those plays, including weird engagements, mismatch weapons forms, and two-handing the rapier.
Improving Tactical Decision Making with a Random Cues Drill
One of the keys to improving a fencer is making the drills feel closer to a real bout. This “random cues” drill is a nice step in that direction. It’s like a very unstructured option drill.
Rapier Solo Drill: Fencing Pendulum Voids
Improve your girattas and low body voids with these pendulum drills.
Approaching Misura Stretta
So you've found yourself in Misura Stretta... now what?
Approaching Misura Larga
In this blog post, we explore the tactical options you have once in Misura Larga (according to the True Fight).
Approaching ‘Misura Larghissima’ or ‘That Space Between Out of Measure & Your Lunge’
Although Misura Larghissima is an ahistorical fencing term, it's still a useful teaching & training tool for rapier fighters.
How to Improve Your Rapier Feints Without a Partner
Feints are a challenging & difficult aspect of rapier. Here's how you can improve the technical side of your feints without a training partner.
Regarding the Basics of Measure in Rapier & Approaching from Out of Measure
Measure is a foundational principle of the Italian fencing system. Here's an overview of Misura, plus approaching from Out of Measure.
Approaching the Four Temperaments of a Fencer
According to the late-Renaissance Italian fencing masters, there are four temperaments of rapier fencers. Here's how to defeat each.
On the Properties & Uses of Guardia Quarta
Quarta (fourth guard) is the only guard to protect the inside line, but there are variations. Here's more about the guard & sample plays.
On the Properties & Uses of Guardia Terza
Terza (third guard) is often the default guard for Italian rapierists but it's use goes beyond just standing on-guard.