Historical Accuracy in The Odyssey (2026) - What Was I Thinking?
Short | 1 months ago
This is a follow-up to the short vid I made yesterday, which in hindsight... wasn't great. A little inconsistent with arguments I used to make, and also lacking both nuance and (uh-oh) context, as 1-min videos often do. So time to "hold that L", as the zoom...
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So What's with 80s and 90s Fantasy Sword Designs?
Short | 1 months ago
Remember that odd tip shape that so many artists drew on blades in retro games and anime during that era? That trope has gone away, but would making a sword like that have any realistic benefits in our world? Well, let me over-think it a little... Sources /...
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Fully Armored Sparring with Spear & Pollaxe - Impressive!
Video | 1 months ago
Here is part 2 of the armored HEMA sparring at Academie Duello, now with spears and pollaxes! If you haven't seen the previous video (armored fighting with longswords): https://youtu.be/G06MXOapdWc Very cool to see the different dynamics of working in full ...
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Is a Kriegsmesser a "German Katana"?
Short | 1 months ago
Many people draw that comparison... They're both curved, single-edged swords used (mostly) with both hands, and they are both known for impressive cutting power. Seems reasonable, right.? RIGHT...? Well, ackshually... *** Sources / Credits *** https://ja.wi...
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How to Take Down a Knight (It's Hard Work)
Guide | 2 months ago
A full suit of plate armor, while tiring and stifling to wear, renders so many potential attacks ineffective and limits the options an opponent had. Aside from grappling, these are the most common ways to try to bypass the armor. Depending on the mail worn ...
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How Knights Fought: Armored HEMA Sparring
Video | 2 months ago
It's amazing to watch folks fight in knightly armor, using techniques from medieval / renaissance manuscripts. They have to be very methodical, targeting weak points in the armor. Historical martial arts instructor Devon Boorman explains which target areas ...
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This Sword Should NOT Cut That Well...
Video | 2 months ago
Usually you can get an idea of how a sword is going to perform by looking at its blade profile. Broad and thin, perhaps with a lenticular cross-section? Definitely a cutter. Slender, tapered? Designed for thrusting. But sometimes you're in for a surprise......
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This Antique Royal Artillery Saber Has Seen Battle
Video | 2 months ago
If you like powerful cutting swords, this antique British saber sure packs a punch (or a rather slash, I guess). Originals like that really make me appreciate later sabers more, even though my preference is still firmly in the 15th and 16th century. Probabl...
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This Antique Rapier is LONG!
Video | 2 months ago
Let's take a look at an original Italian rapier from about 1600 that has an impressively long blade. Clearly made for reach, in a way that fencing master Capo Ferro would approve of. The intricate shape, handling, and ornamental touches are above and beyond...
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Can You Cheat to Beat a Superior Swordsman?
Video | 2 months ago
If you had to fight a duel against an opponent with more skill and experience, what could you do to even the odds? Trying something weird and unexpected? A high-risk, high-reward maneuver? Some sort of trick to "cheat" your way to victory? Let's ask an expe...
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Are Spinning Attacks REALLY Bad?
Short | 2 months ago
It's important to keep an open mind and spot your own bias... This is one such case. Many sword enthusiasts and HEMA practitioners absolute hate spinning attacks, dismissing them as utterly impractical nonsense in a real armed fight. I've poked fun at that ...
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The Deadly Elegance of the Rapier is Hard to Beat!
Video | 2 months ago
When performed by a highly skilled instructor, rapier fencing is a joy to watch. The more complex counters look fancy (some even downright flashy), and they make it immediately obvious you're dealing with an experienced swordsman. Let's take a look at some ...
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