Sword Fighting: An Introduction to the Single-Handed Sword and Buckler

Detailed single-handed sword fighting and buckler-wielding instruction based on Medieval combat manuals, with step-by-step guide to multiple fighting stances and methods.


In this sequel to the first volume, which introduced the long sword, Herbert Schmidt explains single-handed sword fighting techniques with a buckler, or small shield. “Single-handed sword” here refers to the sword wielded in one hand, as used throughout almost the entire Middle Ages.

This book analyzes historical evidence, taken mainly from the 13th-century German combat manual Manuscript I:33, or “Tower Manuscript,” the oldest and most widely trusted European sword fighting manual in existence. Find information on binds, posture, footwork, free fighting, and individual plays taken from the writings of fencing masters Hans Talhoffer, Andre Lignitzer, and Paulus Kal in this modern textbook that allows anyone interested—whether beginner or advanced—to work and improve his single-handed sword fighting skills.

Herbert Schmidt is the leader of Ars Gladii, the Austrian swordfighting club, and is part of an international research community that is reconstructing historical European swordfighting and awakening it to new life.