Consulting Swordsman
I thought I’d let you know what I’ve been up to the last few weeks. Firstly, I’m editing video at the moment: the legendary Jessica Finley has provided some footage for a Wrestling module for the Solo Course. This will include an introduction and warm-up; mat exercises (like shrimps and sit-outs); footwork practice; and practicing … Read more
I have the best readers. They are forever coming up with great ideas that I would never have thought of myself, and then sharing them with me. For instance, a while ago, Alex Beaudet contacted me with the suggestion of creating versions of illustrated fencing treatises in the format used for the ebook version of … Read more
It is standard operating procedure to write up an event review in the few days following, and blast it across the socialz. Indeed, after the awesome SwordSquatch I attended at the beginning of September, my various feeds were filled to bursting with just such posts. I was tempted to jump in then and there, but … Read more
If you have two hands, and only one of them is holding the sword, you might as well have a second weapon. The most common companion weapon for the rapier is the dagger. Rapier and dagger fencing is fast, complex, and fun. In this workbook you will learn how to quickly develop the knack of … Read more
I often get asked “What’s your favourite sword?” Here’s my answer: How can one possibly choose amongst so many lovely options? And in other news, I finished my sword rack, at last! It’s in cherry, with acrylic supports, and carved finials: And it’s rather over-loaded: Because how on earth could I leave any one of … Read more
One of the most stylish techniques in the system is the punta falsa, literally “false thrust”. Fiore’s instructions are very detailed: Questo zogo si chiama punta falsa o punta curta, e si diro come la fazzo. Io mostro d’venire cum granda forza per ferir lo zugadore cum colpo mezano in la testa. E subito ch’ello … Read more
I don’t normally use my blog to spread other people’s work or ideas; that’s not what it’s for. But every now and then I come across some things that are too cool, interesting, or important, to keep to myself. Treatises available free online: My friend Jaakko Tahkokallio is head of the special collection at the … Read more
I have just returned from a trip to the USA, centred around Lord Baltimore’s Challenge, a rapier-themed event held in, you guessed it, Baltimore, and organised by David Biggs. Because of the vagaries of international air travel, I flew to New York on Wednesday 3rd, and took the train down to Baltimore on the 5th. … Read more
This is the last episode for a while- I’m off to the states on Wednesday, and will be way too busy going round the Met and teaching at Lord Baltimore’s Challenge to be fiddling about with video cameras. The next episode should be out in a couple of weeks though, and will address follow-ups to … Read more
Today’s video is a smorgasbord of topics, ranging from what’s next for Audatia, to bridging the gap between basic set drills and freeplay. As well as what to do with a million dollars, and how I’d introduce students to the Bolognese. Here’s the video! https://youtu.be/8TaRUKVNuV4 Shownotes: DISCOUNT ENDING VERY SOON: This week only discount on … Read more