Sidesword

The sidesword is a one-handed, double-edged sword that emerged during the late 15th and 16th centuries, transitioning from the medieval arming sword to the more refined rapier. It features a straight, tapered blade designed for both cutting and thrusting, with a complex hilt incorporating rings, quillons, and sometimes a knuckle guard for enhanced hand protection.

Joachim Meyer’s rapier system, part of his 16th-century fencing treatise, adapts the traditional Italian and Spanish influences into the German martial tradition. It emphasises precision, control, and elegance, focusing on thrusting techniques while integrating cuts and counter-cuts for versatility. Meyer’s approach places a strong emphasis on positioning, timing, and blade engagement, encouraging fencers to maintain dominance over their opponent’s blade and control the line of attack.

Sidesword forms part of our regular Thursday night class syllabus taught at St Peter's form 7-9pm

Joachim Meyer’s rapier system, part of his 16th-century fencing treatise, adapts the traditional Italian and Spanish influences into the German martial tradition. It emphasises precision, control, and elegance, focusing on thrusting techniques while integrating cuts and counter-cuts for versatility. Meyer’s approach places a strong emphasis on positioning, timing, and blade engagement, encouraging fencers to maintain dominance over their opponent’s blade and control the line of attack.

Sidesword forms part of our regular Thursday night class syllabus taught at St Peter's form 7-9pm