Sidesword Sparring - Michael vs Steve

[@patrickardagh-walter6609]

Question: is the blade width on those practice swords accurate to their real-life counterparts?

[@AcademyofHistoricalFencing]

Yes, though they are at the narrower end of the spectrum (which was broad), but this is mainly because they are blunts, and blunt swords usually do have to be a little narrower to maintain safe edges and still be an accurate weight, which both of these are very much full weight and realistic handling.

[@patrickardagh-walter6609]

@@AcademyofHistoricalFencing thanks! Given their narrower profile compared to the average arming sword, how do they compare in thrusts and cuts in your opinion?

[@AcademyofHistoricalFencing]

Sideswords typically have narrower blades than arming swords and so will inevitably not cut quite as strongly, that said, there is massive variety in both kinds, and most sideswords can still deliver a lot of power in the cuts. They are usually great for the thrusts due to their reach and fingered grip (in most cases). Really they are just the evolution of the arming sword. A little more protection, a little more reach.

[@paloma4444]

hey there! How long have you been able to come back from the pandemic?

[@AcademyofHistoricalFencing]

Both clubs restarted in May. The Welsh club as seen here was shut since March the previous year whereas the Bristol club had some intermittent training.

[@stanlim9182]

I noticed your sidesword doesn’t have a ring to protect your index finger. What does sparring with it feels like?

[@MichaelGThomas]

It’s a Meyer style training rapier, so no forward rings. It handles like a slender arming sword with a little extra hand protection.