Rapier:Overview of rapier combat - Introduction to rapier combat

Introduction to rapier combat

SCA rapier combat recreates the style of unarmored and civilian combat that took place from approximately 1300 to 1600 A.D., using clothing, protective gear, and simulated weapons meeting SCA standards.

Combatants face each other in single combat in tournaments, and can also participate in melees and battles with multiple combatants on each side. There is something for everyone, from one-on-one duels, to town battles and tavern brawls or even civilized wartime skirmishes with spears and missile weapons.

Combatants wear protective gear, which is covered by or made to resemble clothing or armor of the time period, and use blunted steel practice swords and daggers that closely match the actions and dynamics of real weapons of the era. These are heavier and more authentic than modern fencing foils, epees, and sabers. Combatants also use shields, cloaks, walking canes and other items - including their hands - to assist in their defense. SCA rapier combat is also fought "in the round" - you may move in any direction within the boundaries of the combat area.

Participants often study and use techniques from the historical manuals of fencing masters in London, Italy and Spain, such as Fiore, Danzig, Talhoffer, Liechtenauer. Others have adopted techniques and weapons found in regions far from Europe such as katanas from Japan and shamshirs from Persia.

Everyone fighting is presumed to be wearing thin clothing, and that a sharp weapon would have penetrated skin regardless of the protective gear or armor you are wearing. Both thrusts and draw cuts are allowed. The optional techniques of push and tip cuts are allowed depending on your kingdom. Percussive cuts are not allowed in rapier combat, but are allowed in cut and thrust combat.