Shadiversity vs Skallagrim: Who would win in a SWORD FIGHT?!

As of the making of this video, Shadiversity and Skallagrim are the two biggest youtubers based on subscriber count that cover subject revolving around historical european arms and combat. But who would win if the two ever faced off in a modern day HEMA style match? The purpose of this video is to potentially give people perspective on various nuances of fencing by analyzing two famous sword enthusiasts and their fencing techniques!
(just noticed some audio overlap because an unfinalized portion of the video was added on accident. I apologize. That is very frustrating for me)
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[@Apperceptive_Swordsman]

I apologize that there is some audio overlap in this video because an unfinalized portion was added on accident during the final assembly of the product. It is very frustrating for me, but hopefully doesn't ruin the video for you.

[@Assdafflabaff]

It is a bit annoying but I can still hear what you're saying so it doesn't ruin the video. I know what it's like to do many edits over and over and then when you finally publish it you realize you missed something obvious. Really eats at you but I still appreciate the effort and really enjoyed this "what if" matchup.

[@robinthrush9672]

I did have issues in those segments, but I also have a hearing issue that makes it difficult to filter between overlapping sounds. Makes crowded areas just unbearable and conversation almost pointless in them.

[@tanegurnick5071]

Skall is the man, shad has some issues and a general bad vibe, but Matt Easton would take both them out at the same time. Letsgo

[@Assdafflabaff]

@@tanegurnick5071 Shad doesn't have any "bad vibe" what the hell are you on about?

[@tanegurnick5071]

@Assdafflabaff he just ain't it. Hates on everyone, does things super dangerous, has no real knowledge on the subjects and is pretty much a racist bigot

[@Skallagrim]

That's well edited video with in-depth analysis. This question has come up a lot, and I always find it a bit weird... I mean no disrespect, but I don't see the point in "who would win" speculations. The only way to know is to see two individuals fight, and even then a single fight is not conclusive. There are so many factors, from past experience to how styles interact, current fitness, mindset, and even something as trivial as having a bad day. Comparing statistics of MMA fighters or boxers works because they are in specific weight divisions and have rankings based on regulated fights with an overarching ruleset. In HEMA it's difficult to quantify skill and to compare statistics from matches outside of tournaments. For example, my percentages look very different depending on whether I sparred other students or instructors Lee Smith and Richard Marsden... those guys are on a whole different level and can make a lot of people look like bumbling newbs. :) Anyway, you made a lot of good observations, and I'm not here to criticize your video. Just to add some nuance. Personally I make a point of not trying to gauge someone else's "power level". Ego has a way of interfering with learning, and I've found the best way is to approach everyone with as much of a blank slate as possible and figure them out during a fight, rather than in one's own head. Either way, both of us are content creators first and don't claim to be martial athletes. Like you said, making videos takes up a lot of time and energy, leaving less for training (as does getting older and accumulating injuries / heath issues). We're definitely not super saiyans. :)

[@Spinexus]

Would be super fun to watch in a few real matches!^^

[@BMO_Creative]

Skall would win! Which is why maybe he doesn't see the point of even discussing this... LOL... drop the mic and walk away... LOL

[@Apperceptive_Swordsman]

@Skallagrim Thanks for watching! I understand your perspective, for sure. The point is lots of people love a good dream match, whether its in sports or fictional works. There are entire channels dedicated to just this, but nobody has ever tried it with HEMA in any capacity, as far as I know. So this might be the first. But I put as much effort as I could to be fair and accurate, and there's no way to get it perfect, especially considering the sample size and the differences in conditions that both subjects fought in. Maybe if this is done again, more of these nuances can be considered, but it's hard to think of everything from scratch. Being a KZbinr is tough to do! Lots to consider. I hope most people can take away some valuable lessons, and I'm also glad that some of my own skills are recognized through it.

[@areallybigdwarf4560]

🥺 but the internet loves when content creators get to scrap

[@BMO_Creative]

In short, Skall would win! LOL

[@LauraTeAhoWhite]

I am looking forward to Shad's 2 hour response video to this

[@bl4cksp1d3r]

I was about say, let's wait for him to say how misrepresented he is and how skilled he is (without showing evidence ofc)

[@LokeEnglund-zg3cz]

@@bl4cksp1d3r he did show evidence of that in his response video to sellsword arts

[@albertbecerra]

​@bl4cksp1d3r how do show evidence of how "misrepresented" you are? All you can do is dispute the (insert allegations here) and that's it, you're still gonna have your opinions on the guy in the end

[@bl4cksp1d3r]

@@albertbecerra are you okay?

[@albertbecerra]

@@bl4cksp1d3r uh, I guess 🤨? Are you ok?

[@zestybomb]

The Phrase 'Shad doesn't know how to defend himself' is very humorous to me

[@TheAdeptJourney]

Also kinda true if you watch his LARP videos.

[@FirstLast-wk3kc]

​@TheAdeptJourney I'm sure he's laughing at "oh, he doesn't know how to defend himself both in debate and fencing" People are not liking him a lot recently. Granted, - that includes me, but i try to contain my disappointments to myself alone.

[@TimeMachine7773]

Shad would lose because of his health. He gets drained super fast.

[@areallybigdwarf4560]

-Fiore virtues analysis -Mimicking the fighters in sparring -Technique breakdown -Animations for each exchange People talking about which one they don't like or how they both are out of shape/have health conditions are grossly missing the point, we just got a video with the same level of analysis and research that a GOAT boxer gets from time to time, I can't wait to see the next dream match.

[@Aaa-vp6ug]

Honestly, it’s kind of sad how Shad has so big of an ego, but Shad being homophobic doesn’t take away from the video *about* Shad, now, does it?

[@areallybigdwarf4560]

@@Aaa-vp6ug You have some issues, men.

[@Aaa-vp6ug]

@@areallybigdwarf4560 about what? I’m serious, what do you mean? Also, I agree, this video is good.

[@areallybigdwarf4560]

@@Aaa-vp6ug "it’s kind of sad how Shad has so big of an ego" Shad literally commented on this video with nothing but praise and eagerness to do the match for charity "but Shad being homophobic doesn’t take away from the video about Shad, now, does it?" You need help.

[@Aaa-vp6ug]

@@areallybigdwarf4560 You have NOT seen what Shad has done elsewhere. Made a forty five minute video about how a 60 second “Hey, you took this thing out of context.” Was somehow some massive lie or some shit.

[@Jaggaraz218]

Without even watching, it is obviously Skall, Shad has done way less hema and doesn't fight at a club and essentially has to teach himself.

[@Aaa-vp6ug]

Yup…

[@TroySavary]

Shad is a LARPer who thinks he is a weapon expert. He's actually rather tiresome to watch.

[@marocat4749]

Yep, while that gives him a bit the edge as basically amateur that isnt exactly knowing what he is doing, unconcious that probably will him make unpredictable because trained people will be thrown off a bit. Usually thats thou dur reckless things trained fighers just woulsnt do. Maybe he got a chance there. ?! Else yeah skall all the way.

[@neurofiedyamato8763]

​@@marocat4749Surprised from unconventional moves usually work if the opponent is less experienced and doesn't know how to react. Experts understand the fundamentals enough and seen enough to not be fazed. Also the fact those newbie moves are newbie moves for a reason, they don't work. And after the first few matches, the surprise wears off.

[@marocat4749]

@@neurofiedyamato8763 True. like maybe shad should have gone to more schools to at least steal fro, several hema schools to cobble together like any improvized sword style worth it? Which kinda would have similar basics. An mma of hema sword styles , actually done might work?

[@Mongaloose]

This is the way to critique without coming off like an asshole. A fair and fun comparison of two passionate content creators.

[@MrJakedog104]

With the clickbait title, I was not expecting the video to be this well thought out, explained, and executed. Very well done, Subscribed!

[@Apperceptive_Swordsman]

thanks!

[@jeremiahbell6129]

I think that means it's not "clickbait". It's more like, "click and get exactly what you clicked for".

[@MrJakedog104]

@@jeremiahbell6129 Fair point

[@Shomo-lk8zh]

Subscribed as well

[@PJDAltamirus0425]

Also, your sounds spot on, another thing plays in Shad's aggression is that he never got any major injuries whereas long time viewers of skall have known he has pulled several muscles, gotten hit by a car, dislocated a shoulder, beamed a guy in the nuts and shad, far as I know, as never gotten his bell rung. Also, one of his instructors has broke his stuff several times and he broke a sword being two gun ho and was teased about it. Shad just doesn't the experience with pain and his own mortality that Skall does and I think that reflects in his fighting and outlook.

[@seb24789]

Shad is australian. He doesn't know fear.

[@raulzilla]

Actually martial artists without pain experience tend to be more cowardly and defensive, that's why sparring is very important for boxing and mma. Seki sensei explains this when he explain why they don't use protective gear in his dojo. kzbin.info/www/bejne/gJWxgJ9pedaKbbM

[@PJDAltamirus0425]

@@raulzilla That is kinda the oppodite of what I've experienced in the SCA, what this guy has explained and vds of skall and shad fighting. Also, look there swords, they are super light wieght and sensei's hands are covered, some the show they for hand snipes. I think this just the mental process of going through slow techinque drill with a blade which instill super cus the fear of cutting your teacher or your teacher cutting, to the stimulator to practice technique under pressure. I think this guys definition of newb is guy that fights like he never any soparring or weapon drills before whereas the video is of people used to weapon drilling doing free sparing. Also, comparing armed to unarmed is ricky because is just takes more effort to disable a person if you unarmed compared to armed. The human body is set up much to take getting punched or thrown that being by wood, blunt steel, or steel.

[@The_Judge300]

@@raulzilla There are different schools when it comes to this. Some think you need to take a lot of beating and pain to become a good fighter and others think it is not needed at all. My view on this is that it is very different from person to person. Some either thrive on pain or don't care about the pain, either as a personally trait or from experience. Some hate it when sparring, but don't care when fighting because of the adrenaline. I have never cared about the pain and I have a high threshold for pain. I have never needed to experience it while training to endure it while fighting. I have trained with people that really disliked the pain when training, but have not cared at all in a fight. But I have also trained with people that really needed to toughen themselves up from training and fights to get to a stage they didn't mind the pain anymore. I have also trained with a few nutcases that couldn't get enough of the pain. This is why I think sensei Seki is wrong. Because no people are created equal and one way do not fit all. His training methods work for some, but not all. If you are totally set in a training method, you will make losers of someone that could become great or never release their potential. Yes, you will for sure make some great fighters, but you risk missing out on many.

[@simongloutnez589]

Shad footwork makes me think of how my chickens scratch the ground 😂

[@rlh125]

Skall fights like he would in a real fight, with an eye towards self-preservation. Shad fights like someone who knows he won’t really die in this battle, so he can afford to be reckless in pursuit of the winning blow. Skall’s approach is best for someone who actually wants to prepare for a real life sword fight (however unlikely it is that such a fight will ever occur).

[@ArmchairFundamentals]

It’s like Anakin vs Obi Wan with their stats

[@Aaa-vp6ug]

But Anakin sucks because the only recorded fight is edited to make him look better

[@sakesaurus1706]

​@@Aaa-vp6ugand also has a physical disability before he lost the fight to obiwan? Yeah no sorry Skal is in his own league with how able bodied he is.

[@nathaniellamb2154]

Not fair. Anakin Skywalker was redeemable

[@wastelander3116]

This does actually seem like a fairly accurate take on what would probably occur if Shad and Skallagrim sparred.

[@MarcSiqueira]

There's one more thing to take into consideration is that Shad has a heart problem that makes him get tired quickly, reason why he even hired those 2 guys (Tyranth and Nate) to help him out in the videos, so with Skall's defensive abilities, Shad would get tired and drop the fight before he could have the chance to get too many hits in, i doubt he could endure 12 rounds.

[@vladimirgertner3960]

Let's assume we can remove all of that and give him infinite stamina. He still doesn't have the skill to fight Skall. It's absurd how little thought this channel gives to defense. "Shad doesn't know anything about defense, but it's a minor issue". Come on.

[@DwarfInBlues]

My comment too. Skal is fairly out of shape himself nowadays, but should be able to endure MUCH longer.

[@a_fuckin_spacemarine7514]

​@@vladimirgertner3960Because defense is mostly irrelevant in a point based combat system.....that applies to armed and unarmed, it's why karate is such a joke.

[@vladimirgertner3960]

In Karate you actually defend a lot by simply proper footwork. Shad doesn't have that,. He throws his ass back like a basic bitch in a club and slides his feet while bringing his arms up. So no, your statement is wrong in sooo many ways. @@a_fuckin_spacemarine7514

[@nathanc939]

It is a breathing problem when he sleeps, not hearth problem. He basically is always sleep deprived, because he can not get deep sleep. This being said, physical activities help and he has been doing a little better for a while. Some days, he has very little issues, apparently, while others he is not even able to work.

[@DwarfInBlues]

Interesting you picked the two combatants at their demonstrated peak performance. They both have health issues and I doubt either would endure twelve full exchanges nowadays. Also, love Algal's rickroll outro.

[@jiminysnicket86]

You don't need 12 exchanges

[@jasonfrederick5210]

"I'm not trying to say I would beat them in a fencing match, though I probably would" I believe you, but it still made me giggle. Great vid 😊

[@sixpathskaiokentv]

Joke aside aboout powerscaling KZbinrs, this is an absolute masterpiece of a video. I adore both men and their content, so it was very cool to see broken down. I was literally thinking this to myself the other day.

[@TheAngryAsianAnimations]

I expected a biased drama video but this turned out really cool. And that ending had me burst out laughing. I didn't expect it to end that way but it makes sense.

[@koosh138]

I think this was a fair assessment of both of their skills. I was wondering if anyone else noticed Shad's lead foot thing.

[@sakesaurus1706]

Shad hasn't had enough time and experience to grow out of that i guess His primary focus is on throwing boomerangs tho. Dang australians

[@koosh138]

@sakesaurus1706 yeah, one of the bigger advantages Skall has is that he had for more competitive sparring. Where Shad is sparring, but it never appears that it was ever a serious spar or competition.

[@sakesaurus1706]

@@koosh138 again, no such thing as naturally gifted in armed combat unless you train and develop your talent

[@koosh138]

@sakesaurus1706 ooh no, not saying anything about anyone being "naturally gifted" at all

[@sakesaurus1706]

@@koosh138 Yeah. I'm sorry that i came across as confrontational. I'm just not very well spoken. I agree with you

[@Sleepingwillow2006]

Imagine if KZbinrs who had beef challenged each other to sword duels. That would be peak.

[@Xyponx]

>Create a KZbin channel >Invite big name KZbinrs with beef to come swordfight on your channel >profit you're welcome

[@lred1383]

@@Xyponx>nobody agrees to the duel >plan in shambles

[@nuralibolataev4474]

When I first saw the title, I thought that this would be a meme video, but no, you actually made a 30-minute analysis of the hypothetical duel between Shad and Skall. I love it.

[@andro564]

This is one hell of a video. I hate "who would win" scenarios since it mostly comes down to preference of the writer, but this one is next level. Really rational, factual and with no bias I can see. Great work!

[@theoriginaltoast420]

Finally! A death battle we can actually see happen!

[@im2randomghgh]

The kind of stats you showed for Shad - high aggression, low defence, lots of doubles - is exactly the kind of thing we always see at our club when newbies first start sparring. They're just thinking about how to hit, while experienced practitioners are more cautious in order to pull off cleaner and less random exchanges. This is also why we try to learn specific historical techniques. Trying to be faster and get lucky with the hit isn't a very productive or satisfying experience. Controlling the opponent's blade and attacking safely, on the other hand, is very satisfying!

[@vksasdgaming9472]

Shad loses by no-show. If not with that he loses by having balance of drunk Frankenstein's Monster.

[@MrJavidac]

The only point i would disagree with is the rating system you had early on with defence. The best way to defend yourself is to not get hit, and to control the space and distance between you and your opponent. I would not consider stepping backwards as a retreat, more of a distance control. Standing still and holding your ground without moving is a great way to give your opponent control of the fight. I would give skallagrim a higher score than shad in the rating system. That being said, i would very much watch a Deadliest Warrior spoof with youtube personalities 🥳

[@marocat4749]

yep, and yep, whoeve sponsor maybe possibly funds that , do it. Honestly metatron and skall could be more interesting.

[@nightshade7240]

Shad's greatest weakness is his predictability. He fights like a poorly trained Kendoka but doesn't seem to understand why or how the European longsword differs. I think Skal wins simply because he moves well and he's going to recognise the telegraphs. Every time Shad does that weird kick into the lunge, all his momentum is travelling inexorably forward, all you have to do is change your body position slightly and displace the thrust and it should never hit you more than once. I don't understand how he thinks it is a distraction, it just looks inefficient and the only thing he can do with it, especially at that distance is lunge. The weird kick lunge is also why I say he fights like a poorly trained Kendoka because that's not footwork that would be acceptable in a Kendo school. I think it was a good fight break down. I think you covered the bases and I think your reasoning was sound. Neither Skal nor Shad are professionals. They don't have the experience or the training and so the fight would be quite even unless Skal realises early just how predictable Shad actually is. I also think Skal has the edge due to his years of trick cutting. It teaches you a lot about mechanics and changing angles in ways an opponent would not expect. While it's true that fighting a new person is unpredictable that definitely cuts both ways and I've seen some videos from Skal back in the day when playing SWORD on the forums that makes me think he just has more effective tricks in his arsenal.

[@Aqsticgod]

sounds like youvce only seen one video on him and based your opinion on sellsword videos. also saying someone is predictable when they most of their videos is testing unconventional theories, yeah not exactly a true measure of his skill. grow up.

[@neurofiedyamato8763]

​​@@AqsticgodThat is such a fan boy response. Firstly, if you actually watch what sellsword said and not what Shad interpreted it as, you would see he made no mention fo Shad ever let alone on his sword fighting skills. The only time he mentioned Shad was to explain it was a misunderstanding and to diffuse the situation. Shad doesn't seem to care though but since sellsword ignored the 40min escalation, shad couldn't farm it for views. And no, testing unique and random fictional ideas is not going to make you unpredictable. You might glean something from it, but without practice and proper implementation, those aren't moves you can count as part of your repertoire. If it was as simple as doing a random move a few dozen times, then everyone can be a master swordsman. By no, people practice footwork, edge alignment, parrys, and more to be able to do it reliably and consistently. And ofc understand how one stance flow into another, in defense or offense. It is also interesting to note for 5000 years of sword combat, there is no mention of these weird unique fighting styles from military curriculum to swords masters anywhere in the world. Should say a lot about their practicality.

[@strydyrhellzrydyr1345]

I'm glad this is getting recommended to fans of both.. Very interesting

[@helpdeskjnp]

That Shad grapple at the end was impressive and the fact that he did it on purpose makes me reconsider my picking Skall over Shad. You can tell he naturally went to the throw. Great video again sir! Subscribed!

[@leichtmeister]

The footwork of his oppononent in that one video is even worse than Shads footwork. For the whole fight. Everybody could throw that guy. Skallagrims understanding of footwork and stance is a lot better and way more stable.

[@NicholasproclaimerofMessiah]

Very good. I think you have honored both men and the amicable rivalry between them, and this is a very fun and educational video for the "KZbin sword community" (as Shad puts it).

[@shamefulbrainbot4742]

Skall wins because ai like him more personally and my taste is perfect

[@isaacwright407]

I disagree but the raw confidence is impossible to argue with

[@stdtohneangabe4677]

He said : "I converted them into a dice roll" I heard:"I halfway wrote a you tube swordcomunity skirmish tabletop". Now i cant forget the picture of models of the shadiversity team batteling the different incarnations of metatron😂😂😂

[@Chraan]

7:13 Shad has a Taekwondo background and as a TKD practitioner myself it looks to me like the Ap Gubi stance, that would explain his foot kicking, its a feint and ingrained in his muscle memory.

[@ATGaming-bq3vq]

Dude, I was thinking the exact same thing when he brought that up. I have TKD background as well.

[@leichtmeister]

He still sucks.

[@Chraan]

@@leichtmeister No need for toxicity.

[@leichtmeister]

@@Chraan Shad is toxicity incarnate :D

[@Chraan]

@@leichtmeister Sorry pal, if he is "toxicity incarnate" then there is not even a word to describe you. And now get your toxicity out of here and stop hijacking the comment section, thank you.

[@bullphrogva1804]

Fun video, a little bit of work with the sound would go far for production. There's a few parts where your voice is drown out by Skallagrim voice or background music. Keep it up!

[@drewwillett1910]

That was BUGGING me! Lol

[@Apperceptive_Swordsman]

i know. trust me nobody is more upset by that then me. i accidently added an unfinished version of that section for the final upload. extremely upsetting

[@matthewpham9525]

@@Apperceptive_Swordsman You're one guy with less than a half decade of KZbin editing experience, I frankly enjoyed the video, great work!

[@grouchypseudopod354]

My only comment was going to be that this video could have been about 30 seconds long with the same conclusion, that being said, great video, actually a lot of good hema knowledge hidden in this clickbait-y title. Subscription earned.

[@Apperceptive_Swordsman]

the goal is to hopefully give newer people a better perspective on good fencing, not really who wins or loses

[@Disgruntled_Grunt]

This had _much_ more analysis on personal fighting styles and information about HEMA in general than could possibly be contained in 30 seconds.

[@grouchypseudopod354]

@@Disgruntled_Grunt agreed, honestly a banger video.

[@divineretribution9605]

I dunno, but I know who would win in a "BEING A DECENT PERSON" fight. Oh, also Shad sucks a HEMA and the Australian HEMA community hates him, so beating him probably wouldn't be that hard.

[@crozraven]

Shad definitely could not go for 12 rounds. He have heart problem so stamina is basically his biggest weakness as far as stats go. Although Skalls had multiple injuries with his legs in the past, so another X factor that would change the flow of the fight.

[@FortuneFavoursTheBold]

Great analyses and predictions. As the way things stand now, that's probably how I predict the course of action. There would just be too many doubles. Skallagrim, with years of learning would eventually figure out how to handle Shad, as he has much better understanding of opponents and how they approach their fencing principles and what are in their toolbox. Shad might be able to improve greatly if he actually trains with experienced fencers, but it doesn't seem very likely at this point. I would also predict that Shad would have more problem handling steel swords, as he has far less experience handling them, and his edge alignment would suffer more where as Skallagrim not only spars frequently even after he moved to Nova Scotia, but test cutting with a wide variety of weapons rather frequently.

[@DrCrypt13]

if you're picking between a Canadian or Australian, always go with the Canuck!

[@FirstLast-wk3kc]

Shad does spar with his friends, but it's clearly has less impact due to them being commonly less competent fencers than Skals opponents.

[@danielcox7629]

I think Australia might have a low population of HEMA guys that plays into it.

[@fallencrusader2975]

Agree with you entirely besides the edge alignment comment. Skall may still be slightly better than shad in that area but it's hard to say for sure... While there isn't any proof of shad sparing against experienced fencers, the ONE drill he trains very often IS EDGE ALIGNMENT. Just about every sword video shad has, he mentions and practices edge alignment with great results. Not to mention he has practiced edge alignment with a multitude of weapons

[@simplysolus8916]

Personally, I would think Shad would win. I think Skallgram is a better fighter, but Skallgram has often lost exchanges just because he never went on the offensive, letting opponents make several strikes without ever going on the offensive, allowing them control of the pace of the fight. Akin to a skilled player who doesn't shoot often vs someone less skilled that constantly shoots.

[@chadherbert18]

Nice work on the video and analysis - I especially like the artwork and use of chosen video footage! I think the classy thing to do in this instance is plot it as a tie, like you did, and turn the focus toward the analysis. I have watched and analyzed a lot of both KZbinrs’ content, and fought similar opponents at the skill level and time period related to the footage used, and you actually used a bunch of the footage where I got to battle Skall at VHG in 2018! 😊 Some thoughts… At that time, I’d say both Skall and I were transitioning from beginner to intermediate level fighters, thus developing a breadth of skills and getting pretty good at a few specific moves, while still tightening-up some gaps in our defence, and eliminating bad habits. Me being quite heavy at that time made fighting a quick and nimble Skall a tough challenge, forcing me to reach like Shad would. In that way, I was a good stand-in for this analysis, but I also had a greater depth of tools than Shad demonstrates as per where he was at in the given footage and that set of tools, and my level of patience allowed me to perceive patterns and adapt to Skall’s quickness. When we fought, Skall made quick work of my overextension and forward movement to snipe my arms or worse, but I found ways to catch big points here and there. The other fight with Reese, shows a much more aggressive opponent, and he overwhelmed Skall, but Reese was even quicker, and also with a good set of skills, and that combo was lacking with Shad. I think Shad’s aggressive centreline drive of the point would certainly catch Skall off guard, but it might end in a hit to head or body, hit to arm, double, or afterblow with pretty equal chances. Once Skall perceived and adapted, the crux of the match would be about how often Skall makes little mistakes, which he did fairly often, but again, I think the result might be even proportions of hit to head, arms, afterblow, or double. Once 2-3 exchanges pass, Skall would likely sink into his snipe the arms mode and I think he’d mostly earn points here with occasional double or afterblow negating some of them, but Skall liked to sprinkle really nice slash & smash head shots against the point, so I think the match would be won in this phase (matches were to 9 points). Shad could have some success and sneak a win if he picked his timing better, or if Skall got a series of hand shots that emboldened him, bringing him back into range, especially if Shad rushed in at the same time Skall did. Having them meet in a grapple gives the edge to Shad who practiced this sort of martial art, and I don’t think this was in Skall’s bag of tricks at the time. The doubles factor is funny on the face of it, viewing rates of doubles suggests these fighters should double-out more often than they do - two things happen: 1. When you get to two doubles, the fighters become more cautious, 2. The director becomes more lenient. It shouldn’t happen this way, but it does to the extent that almost no one ever actually doubles out unless they absolutely refuse to start defending themselves properly even after the crowd reacts and director warns them. The best part about speculating about this matchup is how so many people out there love these content creators and get to fanboy over them a little more because there’s no real way to know anything about this match-up! 😂 Maybe if I got to battle Shad as well, I could compare better, but as far as I know, no one’s been lucky enough to battle both. Maybe I should go on a world tour and spar with all the big KZbinrs, then you could use the footage for more comparisons! 😊😂

[@Apperceptive_Swordsman]

oh man I watched that match so many times haha! thanks for the compliment and the feedback. The fight against you gave me a lot of scenarios where Skal would face off against moves similar to what Shad uses. At one point I even considered playing to the phonetic similarities of your names haha If you go on a world tour make sure to visit me!

[@chadherbert18]

@@Apperceptive_Swordsman Yeah, the name similarities are funny - I’ve joked that Shad = Southern + Chad, or Chad = Canadian + Shad, though, the similarities between us likely end at big sword guys. The “Chad” memes in the comments of that fight video are pretty funny too! 😂 I’m pretty sure I have more footage of my Skall fight from another perspective, I’ve thought about posting a supplementary response video explaining my approach to the fight. 🤔 Maybe I’ll post something to our Comox Valley Combat Guild channel. I post fight footage mostly to TikTok and Instagram, if you want to analyze more fights 😂, but I tend to get too distracted preparing for my next class, event, or life, before I can build full KZbin videos. 🤷😂 If I go on tour, I’ll definitely stop in, so we can battle and over-analyze more fights! 🤓⚔️🤓

[@A_Medieval_Shadow]

The video turned out way more wellthought, organized and entertaining than I thought. Good job

[@MikkosFree]

Hmmm, Great video. I always considered Shad to be a scholar turned swordsman. He accumulates and present the knowledge, but have not had enough time/effort to put said knowledge to practice. Skall on the other hand would be a swordsman, who dabbles in the teachings of other swordsmen. I respect both of them, and real winner is us who are given access to their research and experience.

[@Aqsticgod]

and how exactly do you know that so well? for all you know he could have been doing this for years longer than you think, youre just assuming at this point and assuming makes an ass of u and me.

[@vladislavpavic]

I am glad I watched this video in its entirety instead of watching just five minutes and clicking to the next video. Great video!

[@NoName-lo9ym]

This is great - more of these analysis vids please - would be then great to actually get these lot in a room!

[@Kryto_Gaming]

This is a great video! I really like the analysis style and simulations. The step by step breakdown and theorizing was compelling. I hope you do more of these.

[@mattmiraglia3199]

Before i watch, ive gotta say, as a longsword competitor, my money is on Skal for a reason that is unconventional, though you may cover it: location. I dknt know how big the Australian hema community is, but im willing to bet Skal has sparred for more hours and with far more partners than Shad. This, more than any technique in a manual, is what makes a good fencer.

[@trolltalwar]

Shads also running a business, writing books and providing for a wife and 5 kids. Hes a very busy man. On his reddit a few naysayers tried to say hes a fraud for not being a member of his local hema club and they tried to say "its only an hour away from where he lives!" So an hour there, an hour or longer class, then an hour back home. We're looking at 3-4 hours and I dont think he has the time for this. Its far more viable for him to spar where he can at home with his crew, and i think the addition of nate nd tyranth has given him skillful sparring partners

[@leichtmeister]

@@trolltalwar Yeah true, he needs that time to spill hate against societal minorities on youtube. BEWARE, PEACH WEARING PANTS!!! OUR CULTURE WILL COLLAPS!!! What a clown.

[@Alakrit]

@@trolltalwarHe has also been dealing with a chronic fatigue disorder. That makes prolonged, strenuous, exercise difficult.

[@Aqsticgod]

yall acting like shad and his crew never do proper weapons training jus tbecause they arent part of the HEMA club in their area? that is a seriously bullshit reasona nd so dead wrong, aslo skall would fail harder than shad cuz skall in always injured and seems to get injured a lot. shad running a business and doing his job to provide means nothing, an adult can make time for everything hes interested in and that has no standing on how he conducts his training, crazy to think that just because you arent part of some exclussive club youre discredited. fucking society should burn seriously.

[@mattmiraglia3199]

@@Aqsticgod the only thing that can make you a truly good fighter is lots of time spent sparring with uncooperative partners. Not having a hema club, or any club where people spar, is a huge disadvantage. It's an irrelevant topic. I like their channels, but I'm fairly certain most people I fence with could beat them both. But that is silly. If they're on hema ratings, they're ranked far below me, but they've both done far more for hema than I ever could. *This* is why you think society should burn? You need to take it easy, my friend.

[@kamilszadkowski8864]

Wow, I honestly wasn't expecting such a well thought out video. Great analysis mate. You've earned my subscription just half way through.

[@Helxas]

Also great to see an old Skall veteran like you still commenting

[@TheLeaderX1]

in kendo, they have something like shuffle steps that keep their dominant leg forward as they move around. so Shad's foot works is probably a legacy of his kendo's days. the shuffle steps itself also only really work on even terrain like the flooring of a dojo, so Shad probably cant move the same way on the grassy terrain, leading to the awkward stepping back and forth.

[@Lockke_]

Quality video. Looking forward to seeing what else you put out.

[@CatRazor]

This is a very fun video! Really appreciate the research and effort put into this, keep it up man! Over all it doesn't matter who wins and loses, this is just pure fun and speculation. Amazing art, interesting points, the scenarios that you recreated with friends looked like a ton of fun. I love both of these channels, I love the creativity and energy that they inspire in people, and I understand that there is drama between them,, but overall I just glad that people are taking interest in swords and martial arts :D

[@ShagadelicBY]

I love this! Well done, man!

[@josephdif]

This is an awesome breakdown video of the two. I like to see more of these with other fencers on KZbin that wouldn’t get a chance to compete against each other.

[@johnmannich4978]

This was the best hypothetical fight rundown i ever saw. great work!

[@tuckstevens1111]

I love your use of fiore to articulate the techniques. Very well done.

[@etantife]

Oh boy.. can't wait for shad to respond to this. Great video.

[@swayback7375]

REEEEEEE

[@thatguybrody4819]

he actually agreed with pretty much all of it and, in an above comment by him, said it pointed out things he did he's planning on working on.

[@zekeolopwi6642]

This makes perfect sense to me. I've always seen Shads kendo influences in his sparring. I honestly think these fellas would double more often than not and there'd be more after blows. Excellent breakdown

[@Truewooper]

This was an amazing and fun video. Please keep doing stuff like this.

[@markharrison6498]

The imitation portion looked like a lot of fun. Amazing video overall and the level of detail was incredible considering the silliness of the subject matter

[@AEsir_Goji]

Gotta admit, this was more interesting as well as more even than I had expected. Still put my money on Skall at the end of the day, but this definitely makes me keep other things in mind.

[@brandonf5876]

Nice! That was very thorough

[@jim7217]

Very good elaboration of the skillsets of both, and what could happen. I like the concepts you shared here, and pointing out their strengths and weaknesses. Good stuff - keep it up! Awesome job, and I will definitely look at your other videos. BTW - your puppy is fantastic - keep him in your vids

[@carn109]

Great stuff! Love the analysis on the techniques!

[@pandorasboxofcatvideos5892]

this is very interesting. A breakdown of hypothetical exchanges. In all honesty, it made it easier to understand the techniques used by skall and shad and how they interact with other techniques.

[@Wulf-sq9zw]

That was a fun video, subbed 👍

[@rumblechad]

I love this format of video, I'd love to see more speculative analysis/breakdown videos comparing different fencers like this in the future.

[@kevinmolina2878]

I didn't expect this video to be so well done!

[@dequitem]

Love the video. I think the most extrem factor is, that skallagrim also fences against good fighters, while shadoversity only fence with noobs! So yes, Skallagrim will demolisch him 😅

[@sowianskizonierz2693]

That's funny coming from someone who made a video saying the mace wasn't a good weapon because you use lighter buhurt variants

[@Specter_1125]

@@sowianskizonierz2693while i don’t entirely agree with the video you’re referring to, you are grossly misconstruing his argument.

[@kazum1809]

Shad has 20+ years of training and trains multiple weapons

[@vladimirgertner3960]

I mean, quite clearly, he was going to come up with a scenario where it ends as a draw to avoid annoying fanbases. But the skill levels between the two are massively different. Shad absolutely stands no chance.

[@ni9274]

@@kazum1809doesn’t matter if he has no experience in actual professional fencing

[@outsideiskrrtinsideihurt699]

This was insanely well thought out! I’ve never seen analysis of real sword sparring on this level and it’s even more impressive considering there isn’t a whole lot of footage to work with. Well done! Maybe you can continue this and analyze someone like Matt Easton?

[@jordansblabbering6303]

Matt beats up almost every swordtuber. End of story. Too much experience, daily training, one of the founding fathers of hema. I think he could face off Fiore if he was alive lol

[@outsideiskrrtinsideihurt699]

@@jordansblabbering6303 100% I meant he’d be put up against another professional hema-ist. He’s definitely the best of all the KZbinrs

[@FoxCDN]

Fun video, I've not head the virtues spoken about before so this was interesting. The analysis and observations were inciteful too. Great work :)

[@NClark-lp3bq]

This is an impressive analysis! Top tier and well regards sir!

[@MartinGreywolf]

From the clips you showed me, Shad is fencing pretty much like I've seen decently experienced LARPers fence, all the bad habits included. Thing is, I've also seen these same people fight with some pretty good HEMA fencers and take them for a ride because of the aggression and relative lack of self-preservation, same as you noticed here. People like this are a difficult opponent for pure HEMA folks do deal with because you need to counter them in a specific way - and figuring out what that is mid-fight is not the easiest thing. I imagine that the historical swordsmen were a lot better at this than the HEMA folks, they fought a lot more inexperienced opponents than we do these days, after all. And if you are wondering what the way to beat them is: assume every feint you make and every provocation will be answered with an attack. Assume they will not prioritize their own defense and will counterattack instead. The only time you can attack is if their line of attack is gone due to timing (usually because of a beat) or binding. Their greatest weakness is being forced into several steps in a row, poor stance does that to you - the good ones like Shad here compensate by not stepping, so attack from weird angles to make them move. For me, using the Destreza way of doing things (i.e. approach gradually alongside a spiral while continuing to stifle their blade) works well for me.

[@marocat4749]

Be basic and punish when soneone opens up sounds likre , at least the way i saw on aan unarmed video to deal with that. Be very very basic, dont take risks and punish.

[@martialman12]

Skallagrim is far more trained in HEMA than Shadiversity. Probably a better match up would be Sellswords versus Skallagrim.

[@Xeonort]

Agreed. David not only has far more HEMA training than Shad as well, he's actually sparred with many people all over the country as well as competed in many HEMA tournaments. Shad isn't a HEMA guy, he's a middle ages enthusiast.

[@santi_super_stunts2573]

I think that would be a mop as well tho. I think more accurate would be robin swords vs sellsword arts. Obviously life is not a video game I do think skall will win some matches against sellsword but lose a majority.

[@jamesconlon8429]

David Miller aka Sellsword arts would win without question.

[@jamesconlon8429]

@@santi_super_stunts2573 Robin Swords and Sellsowrd arts are both good fencers, that would be a fun fight to watch.

[@Aquilenne]

As far as I know, Sellsword doesn't have any major health issues that would cripple him though. At least Shad vs Skallagrim has health issues on both sides, with Shad having chronic fatigue and Skallagrim having shoulder injuries.

[@simplyme5241]

Hey man i genuinely enjoyed this goofy video and im excited to see where you go. Keep it up!

[@purplelibraryguy8729]

That was a lot more detailed and researched than I was expecting.

[@WILDMUSTANGX]

You do realize they're both gonna see this video and feel obligated to step up their game and make this match actually happen?!

[@Apperceptive_Swordsman]

that would be interesting but i personally don't see it happening

[@edruss9149]

Yeah this would never happen as skall (and Matt) has cut all ties with schad, because shad politically leans conservative. Its really kinda sad too see but leftist can't separate their politics from...Well anything really these days. It shows who the actual intolerant and bigoted ones are.

[@haxkztasy]

not gonna happen in one of Shad's recent videos he said that Skall doesnt like Shad that much it seems... which was weird cause they've had a back and forth kinda thing once and even respected each others opinion, so weird that Skall seems to not like Shad and his videos that much really.

[@laisphinto6372]

Its because shads started His second Channel where He was more Open about His political opinions and skall didnt Like them

[@Kryto_Gaming]

@@laisphinto6372 Yeah that's possible. Didn't he have a falling out with someone else due to the same reasons? Personally I don't care much either way about political opinions like that, but I feel it's fair for each person to decide what they do with people who's opinions they don't like.

[@ehsanrahee7411]

This is great. I love a good hypothetical fight match-up. I just wish more of the fictional character ones went this in depth lol

[@jormundgarner]

Man, great video. I clicked here expecting something to watch for 5 minutes to laugh a little but I ended up watching a very in depth analysis. Have a like.

[@gabrielcoelho7909]

This video is incredible, great knowlegde and explanations too.

[@TechnoMinarchistBall]

I think the reason Shad doesn't do a lot of lateral movement is due to his Kendo experience.

[@Apperceptive_Swordsman]

that would make sense

[@leichtmeister]

I think the reason is he sucks.

[@Aaa-vp6ug]

@@leichtmeisterthat too.

[@user-bf2bl8fx7m]

does anyone know anything about his Kendo experience? What grade he is? Its mentioned every so often, but he doesn't go into detail (yeah, I wonder why?)

[@TechnoMinarchistBall]

@@user-bf2bl8fx7m He's a 4th Dan in kendo and 3rd Dan in iaido.

[@Kishqui]

The audience. The audience would win.

[@BareFool]

Sound analysis, especially given the limited material you had to work with, but it's the dog that convinced me to subscribe. 😁

[@alexoliver4815]

Pretty intelligible, informative and entertaining video bro! I'm happy with the ending of the foe "matchup" because the truth is in reality if they were sharp swords then all bets are off lol anything CAN happen even though some things are more likely than others. I hope they both see this video because I think they would enjoy it! Good luck on KZbin my guy

[@shadiversity]

I'd do it for charity😉 But genuinely very interesting video, your breakdown even revealed some stuff about my style of fighting I'm going to be more mindful of. Really constructive stuff!

[@Apperceptive_Swordsman]

Thanks! I'm glad you were able to find it useful. I hope we get to see more sword fighting in the future!

[@mcjagergaming]

Lmao this peak internet right here

[@janregenda5573]

Well, I mean no disrespect, but I find you Shad a historian/enthusiast first, and fencer second. Unlike your supposed oponent.

[@markfergerson2145]

@@janregenda5573That’s what he says he is. Skall also says he’s pretty much the same thing. They have very different preferences, styles and viewpoints though, which is why I and a lot of other people subscribe to both of them. It’s not about choosing sides you know.

[@ub-4630]

Oh snap! Shad is here too!

[@zetsumeimaru]

Shad's foot shuffle is common in kendo, as the head tap is a common scoring action. So Shad is applying what he has learned in kendo to Hema.

[@josephlucas4024]

The shuffle Shadiversity does is nothing like what Kendo practitioners do. In Kendo, it is taught early on that your footwork shouldn't involve picking up your feet and instead have your feet keep a very slight amount of contact with the ground as you slide across the floor. He also lacks basic skills like striking at the wrist from chudan/longpoint and using high guards like jodan/vam tag to hit the head. If what Shadiversity claims is true, then he most likely didn't do Kendo for very long (probably less than a month or two) or intentionally practiced it incorrectly.

[@DJ-gx4lq]

I do kendo, No it is not. If you are rocking back and forth with your heels contacting the ground, you will lose consistently.

[@RheaMainz]

This is such a highly detailed and thoroughly calculated examination, well done! My conclusions are the same as yourself regarding these two

[@vybzkartel9695]

This is a dope video, subbed

[@sixpathskaiokentv]

We're power scaling KZbinrs now?

[@deltap6967]

Can Shadiversity beat Goku?

[@tf2g44]

Shad said his wierd foot kick stuff is for trick the opponent so they think Shad is gonna charge forward so Shad can watch what is oppoenent's natural reaction and use that information as advantage. So there is reason why he does some wierd moves. and he said it is his fighting style.

[@mudcrab3420]

Shad says a lot of stuff. He could also be watching his opponent's unnatural reaction. If you practice something a lot you learn what is and isn't a feint and if it does or doesn't require a reaction. It is teaching the hind brain to recognise the difference between an actual threat, a possible opening, a deliberate fake and something that can just be ignored. Also there is little point in throwing feints if you don't eventually attack. I can't speak for all schools but the one I train at mentioned on day one hour one that there is no point in swinging your sword unless you are blocking or attempting to strike your opponent. It is a wasted move that may compromise your defence. So... if this is his fighting style, does he actually win many fights with it? Or is he just attempting to justify some poor habits he has developed over the years?

[@marocat4749]

Its also kinda proof he is like a reckless untrained amateur, and i dont think him gearing toward lucky shots due his reckless amateur moves , is showing a style. Its him not having the experience and bewing franklie kinda a newbie and never becoming trained. Yes it can maybe throw off trained people if their opponent isnt knowing what they are doing and reckless, but also thats usually due not wanting harming them. Dunno if its the same in hema, but anyways shad is easy to figure out then.

[@reaganjanaerichard5009]

This was very interesting. Thank you!

[@Tkoutlosh]

Lol, you really pick a turbulent times to release it and I was really surprised with the overall quality of this video. Good analysis, really detailed and good observation...

[@thethiccwarrior6675]

Never mind whatever screw attack is doing at death battle. This is the match that I’ve wanted.

[@BGSenTineL]

Amazing video ! Subbed ! Now I wait a video from Shad "Does my defense suck ! a reply to Apperceptive_Swordsman" :D P.S Love Shad and Skall content.

[@ivsovolod]

brilliant analysis, a real crashcourse in tactics ansd habits to overcome, thank you very much

[@Tennouseijin]

I like the idea behind this video, as well as the execution, as entertainment and a unique way of discussing swordsmanship (e.g. a comparison of fighting styles). As long as people don't take it literally as a 'who is a better swordsman' or 'who would actually win', since that, as far as I can tell, would depend on so many factors it's just not feasible to predict. Like, both youtubers have their share of health problems that could play a major factor in determining the outcome, and there would likely be a significant difference between their peak performance, and their performance during their 'out of shape' periods. So you could say that for a fair comparison we could take both at their peak, but that's making it even more abstract, more detached from reality than it already is as a purely theoretical fight and a thought experiment, because that would require time travel. But if you don't do that, you would likely end up with an 'unfair' fight, say when one of them is recovering from an injury or very out of shape, while the other one isn't. Btw. I wonder how much their fighting style is influenced by their health problems. Say, there was a time when Shad because of his apnea was easily running out of breath, so I guess his aggressive style focused on offense might have been partially influenced by the fact, a long fight with both fighters focusing more on defense would be his demise, as he would tire out much quicker than his opponent. So he had to finish fights quickly, one way or the other. But, even if I'm wrong about that, it definitely had effect on his ability to practice swordsmanship, since he would not be able to spend a lot of time practicing.

[@gaylordzapikowski9053]

You're not dead! Hurray!

[@Apperceptive_Swordsman]

you also appear to have retained your mortality!

[@VelaiciaCreator]

Important to note, Skall fences with experienced and learned opponents while Shad generally has not. So there should be a grade curve on their results. Other things to note about Shad's offensive tendencies would be that he has all the marks of a novice, aggressive and lacking reactive awareness. I personally agree with the base of the analysis in their probable actions and reactions, but honestly you are throwing way too big a bone to Shad.

[@MrZetherath]

hell yeah man, this was a great video

[@clonegreivou]

Now this os the kind of youtuber fight I would watch

[@PJDAltamirus0425]

Paul Wagner of Stocatta versus MattEaston. Bjorn versus Roland Warzecha.

[@elgostine]

paul vs matt, now thats a matchup i would indeed like to see

[@scholagladiatoria]

I have actually sparred Paul, several years ago.

[@raptordarwish887]

​@@scholagladiatoriaYou should spar or collab with Shad. You both make great content.

[@Kazoo985]

COOLEST DUDE ON THE INTERWEBS!!! YAAAY!!!

[@Leifler]

Excellent breakdown.

[@dmoneyonair]

skall would destroy shad