Basic Longsword Guards

This is simply a video of me demonstrating aspects of the Primary Guards that have been taught to me. I am not a master, or an instructor. I'm just showing various things that I've learned. This is mostly for my own growth as I can watch my stance and footwork with closer scrutiny. Feel free to leave useful feedback and constructive criticism. If you are able to learn something from this video: GREAT!

Category:

Sports

Tags:

• longsword
• liechtenauer
• medieval
• pflug
• ochs
• alber
• vom tag
• fencing

[ChishioAme]

The best I've seen. Clearly demonstrates each guard as well as simple cuts from them.

[Djemps]

@ChishioAme Thanks for the positive words! I'm glad to know people are still watching this and getting something out of it.

[tmsods]

the best online demonstration/explanation I've seen

[Djemps]

@tmsods Wow. Thanks for the kind words.

[ChishioAme]

@Djemps I recently found myself interested in the German longsword and was looking for sources on the guards and how they were used since most only show the guards themselves; I come across this and find them, as well as the transitions. It was more than I was hoping for.

[darkfiete]

@Onikagenokageyama if i remember right, one of the fencing books clearly says that you should use your main hand and just learn to use that from both sides

[Onikagenokageyama]

I should point out that my background is in Japanese traditions. a few of our manuscripts (three that I've seen) from the 15-1700's have mentioned this as "essential teachings (gokui; 極意), which for two of those manuscripts is like secret teachings. One of the purposes for this is is to confuse the enemy, although I practice it because ambidexterity has tons of useful applications. I just found it interesting and though I would share it.

[Djemps]

Actualy there is a local sword vendor in my city called The Steel Source. They have a website, but carry much of the same stuff as other sword vendors. Anyhow, I had them order the sword and I picked it up at the store. I think I payed $120 after tax? Can't remember exactly, but it was a decent price.

[Djemps]

Training with the off hand is not talked about in the original sources. It's complicated enough just understanding the differences in fighting from the Left and Right sides. A weapon like a Pollaxe or staff is more likely to cause situations where the grip is reversed, but not so much with the Longsword.

[wolfdragga]

@Djemps  did you get yours directly from cas iberia?