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tiny but deadly
Dec. 17th, 2006 10:49 pm( first, the obligatory fencing quiz )
Today I dragged my procrastinating self out to rapier/historic fencing practice.
Good news! My point control in rapier is improving - not perfect, but I'm finally getting the manual strength to keep it on my opponent when I move forward.
I do need to start "taking" the blade before I'm in measure, as when I wait until I'm within reach I don't have time to cavazione (move my blade to the other side of my opponent's) if they try to "take" in return.
Also had a very brief introduction to dagger play. Short version: the dagger is to be used as defense or like a "can opener", trapping your opponents sword so you can hit them with yours. If you get caught in infighting you can attack with it, but it's best not to rely on the possibility (don't let your opponent get that close!)
But the best bit was that we got a preview of the new smallsword curriculum.
Smallswords are so small (~30") blade they're almost cute, especially with the vestigal quillons and guard, but like a mosquito or flea they're pointy and deadly.
Bouting (called an "assault", how sweet!) is conducted in very short measure with blades engaged, and footwork is small, lunges are short - the coach L. emphasized to us that this was a weapon for gentlemen, so athleticism gets you nowhere, it's all about precision.
It's gonna be a fun new year, fencing-wise :)
Today I dragged my procrastinating self out to rapier/historic fencing practice.
Good news! My point control in rapier is improving - not perfect, but I'm finally getting the manual strength to keep it on my opponent when I move forward.
I do need to start "taking" the blade before I'm in measure, as when I wait until I'm within reach I don't have time to cavazione (move my blade to the other side of my opponent's) if they try to "take" in return.
Also had a very brief introduction to dagger play. Short version: the dagger is to be used as defense or like a "can opener", trapping your opponents sword so you can hit them with yours. If you get caught in infighting you can attack with it, but it's best not to rely on the possibility (don't let your opponent get that close!)
But the best bit was that we got a preview of the new smallsword curriculum.
Smallswords are so small (~30") blade they're almost cute, especially with the vestigal quillons and guard, but like a mosquito or flea they're pointy and deadly.
Bouting (called an "assault", how sweet!) is conducted in very short measure with blades engaged, and footwork is small, lunges are short - the coach L. emphasized to us that this was a weapon for gentlemen, so athleticism gets you nowhere, it's all about precision.
It's gonna be a fun new year, fencing-wise :)
