Longsword

(aka Hand and a half sword) : (15th-16th Century)

Although considered by many as being a medieval sword, the practice of the Long Sword was in fact documented in a complete fighting system in the 15th century. The combat with the Long sword is very direct and versatile, which many times leads to closing in to the opponent in what is referred to as 'gioco stretto', where methods of grappling and disarming may be used. Being a sword with a wide blade and the cuts and thrusts delivered are very potent, it is very difficult obtaining a blade for a Long sword that can let you practice in full contact in safety.

The weapons we use have blunt edges and rounded buttoned tips and are practiced with control of the hit, meaning that the person stops, when arriving close to the body of the opponent. A lot of self-control and self-discipline is learnt during this practice.





The Long sword is practiced in reference to methods researched from masters such as Fiore de Liberi (1409), Hans Talhoffer (1467), Achille Marozzo (ca 1482-1536), Filippo Vadi (ca 1482).